Line 6 Tone Port KB37 Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)As a part-time, semi-professional musician/performer/producer [you can check out our NOVAkILL CDs here at amazon.com] I have a need for good quality and portability at a reasonable price. For maximum flexibility, I have been using USB audio I/O devices for the past 5 or 6 years, as they allow me to work on my workstation at home or laptop on stage with the same equipment. I was first attracted to Line 6 by the announcement of the KB37 because it looks so incredibly slick and sexy. To see if it could deliver the goods, I got hold of a UX2, which is basically the same as the KB37, without the keyboard. It took me about 5 minutes to realise the potential of this set-up so I got hold of a KB37 as soon as they were available.
HARDWARE - The unit feels really solid. The plastic is very heavy-duty and it all seems pretty well put together, although one of my VU meters is slightly crooked. The three-octave keyboard has a good feel and also feels fairly robust. The I/O knobs [chrome] are perhaps a little loose [it is easy to bump them and change their position] where the controller knobs [black] are very stiff until you use them for a while. It is very light-weight and no wider than most two-octave keyboards so it is extremely portable. The footswitch jacks are a real bonus. The audio inputs and outputs are very good, allowing you to get high quality, clean recordings and to monitor everything easily.
DRIVERS - Line 6 Monkey makes sure your drivers and other software are always up-to-date so it is a good idea to let the monkey look for the latest versions when you are setting up as the CD that ships is nowhere near current [it doesn't even support the KB37]. Once the Monkey had done it's thing, everything just worked. You use the driver interface to assign controllers and footswitches to different functions. It works really well but is a little hard to get at in a hurry.
SOFTWARE [GEARBOX] - This is definitely the best part of the deal. The are plenty of amps, cabinets and other effects available and you can chain them all together to create amazing results. If you are not happy with what you get, you can go on-line and buy even more from Line 6, but I have barely scratched the surface of the bundled options after almost a year. GearBox has very flexible routing - you can assign the hardware VU meters to any of a number of things [inputs, outputs, etc]. You can monitor and/or record with or without effects and you can even record your vocals or guitar parts whilst monitoring other instruments through the unit. You can have a single stereo signal path or two unique mono paths. e.g. one set-up for your vocal and a completely separate effect-chain for your guitar at the same time, whilst monitoring your hardware synths through the unit. Because it operates outside the normal Windoze audio system, latency is negligible which makes it great for using live.
IN USE - This is where we ran into a few problems at first. The KB37 only transmits on MIDI channel 1 so, because we had been using Channel 8, I had to go through all of our songs and change things to Channel 1. But it was worth it because in every other way, the KB37 delivers for us. It is a great device for recording vocals and synth parts and it is a flexible and handy controller for our sequencer and soft-synths. On stage it is even more impressive as we can use it for live vocal effects without having to run our voices through our sequencer software. With two footswitches attached I can change GearBox presets easily on stage and mute the effects between songs.
SUPPORT - Terrible. We had a few problems with the unit when we first started using it and the Line 6 forum was completely useless. After 8 weeks of getting no help from them whatsoever, I eventually discovered that the problem was not with the KB37. If it had been, I doubt it would ever have been solved.
OVERALL - This is close to the perfect solution for us. It is robust and portable, simple to use, yet offers incredible sound quality, both for getting clean recordings and from the amazing GearBox software. If the support was better, this would be a 5-star review.

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The latest addition to the award-winning TonePort family of USB recording and modeling interfaces, TonePort KB37 delivers world-class Line 6 guitar, bass, and vocal tone with the added convenience of an integrated keyboard controller.TonePort KB37 comes with Line 6 GearBox modeling software, which provides a must-have collection of 16 guitar and 5 bass amp/cab models, 30 stompbox and studio effects, and 6 models of high-end studio microphone preamps. And with its exclusive ToneDirect� monitoring, super simple set up, and full-sized keyboard, any musician from beginner to pro can easily record studio quality tracks! Hardware features include two high-quality XLR microphone inputs with phantom power, a guitar/bass instrument input, stereo line inputs and outputs, S/PDIF digital output, stereo headphone jack, analog VU meters, dual footswitch jacks, expression pedal jack, patch select and transport control buttons, pitch bend/modulation wheels, and four assignable real-time knobs and buttons.TonePort KB37 ships with Ableton Live Lite 5 � Line 6 Edition recording software for an immediate studio experience right out of the box.Both hardware and software are compatible with the most popular Mac and Windows recording programs and support 44.1/48KHz with 16/24-bit recording, plus a 96KHz compatibility mode.

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Lexicon IONIX U42S 4-Input USB 2.0 Desktop Recording Studio Review

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(More customer reviews)This device is solidly built, compact, and has great styling. Oh, and fantastic audio.
September 20, 2009 update: Better hope you don't have to deal with Lexicon's tech support. It is absolutely the worst ever anywhere. If you read through the comments to this review, another customer had extreme difficulties finding 64bit drivers. They weren't on the shipping CD, unlike my CD which did have the drivers. It took him weeks before anyone would respond to him. Ultimately, he bought another brand. The new 64 drivers were released a few weeks ago. I tried to install them on my computer and came up with total zero - the device no longer worked since the driver install failed. I emailed tech support, 2 weeks later I got a did you disable your virus software? Then I responded immediately, they are fools, of course that wasn't the problem. Then a week later I got another email that said and engineer identified the error code I sent (in the original email, but repeated for effect a second time)as the USB connection not working properly, and was the blue USB light on. Oh and by the way, please send them the information from the System Device control panel for the type of computer I have. I finally discovered that there was a problem with Windows 64 bit installers after Vista's SP2 update that makes it not work very well sometimes. I did this registration thing with a file. Reverted my computer to the old driver and then the software actually installed correctly - and I'm back in business. Sadly, absolutey no help from Lexicon.
If it were possible to change the star rating, or split the rating - Device / Hardware 5 stars; software not so great 3 stars; tech support for a Professional Product - absolute -100000000 stars totally blows chunks worse than most software companies I've dealt with.
Back to the Original Review:
Some physical description, this is a 4 input mixing, analog to digital, sound console. It uses USB-2 to connect to a computer, however a computer is not a necessity to use this as a mixer. The software included Cubase LE4, Pantheon II Reverb plug in, and Toontrack EZDrummer Lite (along with the required drivers and owner's manuals).
The inputs - 4 rear XLR / 1/4" combo plugs (allows either type of plug in); Midi IN; SPDIF - Coaxial - IN. There are two Instrument 1/4" jacks on the right hand side of the console.
The outputs - 2 1/4" headphone jacks on the left side. Two line level 1/4" jack audio outputs, Midi Out, and SPDIF - Coaxial -Out; and USB out.
There are also two buttons on the back for +48V phantom power.
The controls on the front, 2 headphone controls, the 4 input controls (inputs 1 and 2 can be made stereo pairs; as can 3 and 4). A large output level control. And a control to blend the amount of raw direct input sound, versus the amount of post processed sound.
Each volume control has a set of LED's above them to adjust levels.
The mass of this controller is just perfect, it weighs enough so that the thing will not slide around while plugging and unplugging inputs. The style is a bit like Harmon Kardon - black over silver. The control knobs just scream high quality. The whole thing is powered by a well designed A/C adapter with cords on both ends.
Computer installation. Plug the USB connector in. Insert the included software disc, select install drivers, and find out that only the 32 bit drivers are included. So it's off the Lexicon website to get the 64 bit drivers, my system is 64 bit Vista. After a ton of windows and separate installs, a reboot was necessary and all was happy with the connection.
Then came the pain and suffering:
Cubase was a major pain in the rear end to install. There must be 50 steps to finally get this program validated, registered, and authorized. It's frankly critical to open the installation instructions and follow them to the letter. Nothing but nothing is simple about this install, and it's just to complex to repeat here.
Once up and running - wow this thing is a total joy to use. I'm very new to recording (this is my first recording console). We plugged in an electric acoustic Laguna guitar, followed the instructions for getting started with Cubase, adjusted the volume on the console (the LED's on teh console helped get the levels right), hit record in Cubase; and voila a really great clear recording saved as a WAV file. Couldn't have been easier and higher quality.
The bit of surprise was playback. No matter what I tried, I could not get my Logitech Z-10 speakers to output a recorded track directly from Cubase. This is all probably by design, and it's just my inexperience. I had to use the left hand headphone jack to listen to the sound. This also worked as a monitor when we hooked up an electric guitar. The output quality on those headphone outputs was incredible. The only way I could playback the recorded track, once you press stop at the end of recording, the WAV file is written to the hard drive. That wave file can then be simply played through windows media player or any other player like a standard WAV file.
We did a few recordings and then burned the WAV files to CD. Played on a very nice stereo system, the clarity was absolutely amazing. Bass was solid, the highs were crystal clear. I loved those first recordings.
I've paired this with a Shure SM58 microphone for voice recording.
It feels like I have purchased a really fine solid piece of audio hardware. The sound recorded so far is nothing short of remarkable. For a pure beginner, I was able to get this set up and working surprisingly quickly and do a very decent recording. The Cubase learning curve is going to be huge, I can see that. But simple first out of the box, what a great experience.

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The I'ONIX U42S USB 2.0 Desktop Recording Studio offers the highest quality hardware and software to provide the user with exceptional recordings. All the necessary tools are provided to transform your PC or Mac into a professional 24-bit/96kHz digital recording studio including the U42S recording interface, Steinberg Cubase LE4 recording software, Toontrack EZdrummer Lite, and the new Lexicon Pantheon II VST/AU reverb plug-in.Brilliantly designed, the Lexicon I'ONIX U42S sits where it makes the most sense, between your keyboard and monitor. Now all the level meters and gain controls are at your fingertips when using your DAW. Everything from the metal chassis to the electronics inside is meticulously crafted to ensure superior recordings that live up to Lexicon's standards of performance.Featuring newly designed dbx 60V high-voltage, ultra-low noise mic preamps on all 4 channels, the I'ONIX U42S is more than equipped to provide professional recordings that keep your music sounding its best. The preamps run on a high-voltage supply to guarantee stability and provide you with a superior recording across a wide dynamic range. Performance driven A/D – D/A converters ensure pristine 24-bit/96kHz audio to capture every subtle detail of your performance.The I'ONIX U42S can record four tracks at once and includes 4 combi-jack mic/line inputs with +48V phantom power, 2 TRS balanced line outputs, 2 hi-Z instrument inputs, 2 high power ¼" headphone outputs, S/PDIF and MIDI I/O. Dedicated knobs and meters offer easy access to input and output levels and locking combi-jacks make sure that a connection is not lost in the middle of a performance.The Lexicon name is synonymous with the world's best reverb. The Pantheon II VST/AU reverb plug-in offers 6 reverb types with 35 factory presets, which range from Vocal to Live Sound and Special Effects. Lexicon's exquisitely rich, full reverbs make it easy to complete your mix by adding depth and dimension to any track.

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Creative Professional E-MU 0404 USB 2.0 - Sound card - 24-bit - 192 kHz - 117 dB SNR - stereo - Hi-Speed USB Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I need to point out that this is an *audio* interface first and foremost. Some of the other reviews only mention its MIDI capabilities. It is *also* a MIDI interface, but the primary purpose of this box is to facilitate the recording of audio. It has some great AD/DA converters to that end, along with the capabilities for very high sampling rates (unlike USB1 interfaces).
Another review also talked about using it as an external sound card. You certainly can do that, but it's a waste of money - other products exist that do the same thing better for cheaper, and without as much bulk or an external AC brick to deal with. No, if you're going to buy this box, buy it to record audio and/or MIDI.
If you're still confused as to why this thing exists, the bottom line is if you need it, you know it. This is a category of device designed for "advanced amateur" home recordists and musicians, who want to record their instruments and make their own demo tapes and need top quality and certain features that don't come stock in a standard PC sound card.
Now, as for this product vs. others in its category - I've only had it for a day, but so far, it does what it's supposed to. What you're really paying for are the DACs and the software, both of which are extremely important to home recording. The hardware other than the DACs is kind of cheap and flimsy, but it works. It's not going to stand up to abuse, though - it's all plastic, with gritty-feeling knobs and buttons and a thin plastic casing. One nice thing is having level displays on the box itself, which is something that some budget interfaces lack. Everything does work like it should.
A big question in audio interfaces is the actual interface itself between the box/card and your computer, which affects latency. I wanted something that I could use with any computer that I use, be it my laptop, my desktop, or a computer at my office. That ruled out PCI, which offers the best latency (but requires a breakout box if you want things like hardware level monitors), and it ruled out firewire too, because my laptop doesn't have the ports. I felt USB 2.0 was a decent compromise; it's not quite as good as firewire and definitely not as good as PCI, but it's a lot better than USB 1.1. If you can use PCI, though, Emu also offers a PCI version of this interface - just be aware that you'll be giving up a few features, plus the obvious portability. If you want USB 2.0 for the same reasons I did, this is honestly one of the few audio interfaces out there that can use it. (Most manufacturers assume you're either a pro, in which case you want firewire, or you're a total budget amateur, in which case you want USB 1.1.) There is definitely some latency when monitoring your recordings through the PC, but on the plus side the box does offer zero-latency hardware monitoring directly through the box.
The software bundle is pretty amazing for the price, and it's another big reason why I bought this model. It actually ships with at least three (by my count) full-fledged recording apps: CuBase LE, Ableton Live and Cakewalk LE. Don't let the "LE" designations scare you - they're totally feature-packed apps, just with fewer tracks and VST instruments than the full versions. Do you really need 96 recording tracks for a home recording? 24 should be enough. But the nice thing is these apps also give you an upgrade path to the full versions if you so desire, so you end up saving money vs. buying the full app by itself. This unit also comes with Amplitube LE, which is a plugin for Cubase that models a variety of guitar amps so you can really get that perfect sound that you're looking for - I've been having a ton of fun with this.
I give it four out of five stars only because of its questionable durability. This is not the interface you want if you plan to carry it around in a gig bag all over the place. Also, it does have an external power brick (a small one) - though that's what enables the phantom power for the mic inputs, so it's a good tradeoff. Still, if you want something really portable, look elsewhere (though you'll probably have to give up phantom power). But if you want a good all-around interface for not a lot of money, with a great software package and pro-level audio quality, and you plan to keep it on a desk most of the time, this unit is definitely worth a look.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Creative Professional E-MU 0404 USB 2.0 - Sound card - 24-bit - 192 kHz - 117 dB SNR - stereo - Hi-Speed USB

Emu 0404 USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface delivers an unparalleled level of audio performance to your PC with premium 24-bit/192kHz A/D and D/A converters, pristine XTCTM mic/line/hi-Z preamps, ultra-low jitter clock and rock-solid stability. From its plug-and-play functionality and hands-on ergonomic design to professional features and signal-to-noise specs that are simply unmatched by any other USB interface on the market, the 0404 USB will forever change your expectations of USB audio. The 0404 USB also ships with the E-MU Production Tools Software Bundle that includes E-MU's Proteus VX, as well as software by Cakewalk, Steinberg, Ableton, IK Multimedia, and many more - everything you need to create, record, edit and master your music. Package Contents E-MU 0404 USB 2.0 AudioPod USB cable Universal power adaptor Quick Start installation guide E-MU Software/Manual CD-ROM Windows XP and x64 Drivers Owner's Manual and Tutorials E-MU Production Tools Software Bundle CD-ROM Cakewalk SONAR LE Steinberg Cubase LE Ableton Live Lite 4 for E-MU Steinberg Wavelab Lite IK Multimedia AmpliTube LE SFX Machine LT Minnetonka diskWelder BRONZE (trial) E-MU Proteus® VX (over 1000 sounds included) The Emu 0404 USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface features Premium 24-bit/192kHz A/D and D/A converters (A/D: 113dB SNR, D/A: 117dB SNR) deliver unmatched USB audio fidelity E-MU XTC Class-A ultra-low noise Mic/Line/Hi-Z preamplifiers (-127dB EIN) with 48V phantom power and ground lift switches enable you to plug microphones, keyboards and guitars straight into your computer with professional results, while the built-in analog soft limiting circuit lets you record a hotter signal without fear of clipping Comprehensive digital I/O with optical and coaxial S/PDIF (switchable to AES/EBU) and MIDI In/Out to easily c

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IK Multimedia AmpliTube 3 Amp & FX Tone Modeling Software Review

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(More customer reviews)A guitar/bass amp modeling software product with usable tones...? Seriously?
Yup.
I've used Line6, Studio Devil, and some other unmentionables over the past few years and I just could not accept them as serious tools. Useful for practicing quietly at home in the late night hours? Sure...but when it came to using them for recording, forget it. Everything seemed off, from overall tone to playing dynamics. It was always obvious that you were using software. So for a long time, I just steered clear of these tools, convinced that it would take some long-term research and development to solve the many issues.
But I'm pleased to say that products like Amplitube are giving me hope. I am very impressed with their version 3 and the newer Amplitube Fender release. Someone really has their act together at IK Multimedia and shows a great understanding of how guitar sound is produced overall. Plugging in and finding quite convincing tones ranging from the sweetness of a stereo chorus Roland JC120 to the onslaught of a Mesa Boogie Triple Rectifier with a distortion box out front always brings a smile. There are some less-than-inspiring presets, but these may suit some ears more than mine.
However, the real power is in Amplitube's flexibility. You can take any preset that's in the neighborhood of what you're looking for and then tweak it until you're happy. Everything from stomp boxes to the amp face dials to rack effects and microphone placement, it's all there. You can even tell it which mics (e.g., Shure SM57, etc...) to use, where to place them relative to the speaker, how far you want them from the front of the cabinet, and what type of room (e.g., small studio, hall, etc...) to use. The differences are sometimes subtle, but everything adds up to an overall sound. And once you have the whole configuration "just so", you can save the settings to your own preset folder and then call them up whenever. No need to write everything down and hope that you've accounted for each variable. The software takes care of it for you.
We're using Amplitube with our Mbox 2/Pro Tools LE 8 setup and it makes demo recording so much easier. Now the hardest part of recording is setting up the drums and vocals, as the two guitars and the bass are easy to configure and record. Not to mention that the direct in analog-to-digital recording is clean and free from ambient noise, so there's only minimal scrubbing required during mixdown.
I've read some reviewers out there speaking poorly of Amplitube and about modeling software in general. The central argument is always the same: poor tone and playing dynamics. I can understand this complaint and in the past, I'd be right there with them, chanting the Luddite opposition to digital anything. But not anymore. I'd recommend that the diehards out there demo the newest versions of these products and think again about how things are shaping up. I've been playing on and off for almost twenty years and in that time, I've owned and jammed on a lot of different amps, including a Fender Champ, Deluxe Reverb, and Twin Reverb, a Dr. Z Mazerati, Engl Powerball, two different Marshalls, and a couple Vox. I'm not a tone snob, but my ear is pretty good. To me, the new wave of modeling software is really starting to nail down the tone factor. Moreover, they're getting much better at rendering variables and dynamics such as pick placement and attack.
Is it perfect yet? Eh...maybe not. But things have come a long way and in my opinion, it's good enough for most recording efforts. Pros out there may not agree, but I'm speaking here to everyday folks like me who just enjoy writing and recording music and playing out live on occasion. Note that for live applications, you'll really want a way to access the presets more conveniently, like IK's StompIO floorboard, which is another considerable investment by itself.
Bottom line: give it a try and I really think that (unless you're a tone snob) you'll be impressed.

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IK Multimedia AmpliTube 3 represents a massive upgrade of the popular amp and effects tone modeling software. AmpliTube 3 provides even more sound variety, realism, and creative power than earlier versions. If your recording or playing "rig" is lacking in that rich, lush expressive analog warmth, then you need to check it out. With over 160 precisely modeled pieces of vintage and modern gear available in one package, AmpliTube 3 is an incredible tone gear collection for the player/producer/engineer suffering from tone angst.More Gear - Infinite CombinationsAmpliTube 3 contains over 160 pieces of gear, more than double the amount of most other packages, including models from the most sought-after vintage collections and modern-day workhorses. You'll get 51 individual stompboxes and effects, 31 amplifier preamp & power sections, 46 speaker cabinet models, 15 high-end stage and studio mics, and 17 post amp rack effects. Plus, with the new AmpliTube 3 open architecture, you can add more packages as you need them, like AmpliTube Fender and Ampeg SVX.More Feel - True Dynamic ResponseAmpliTube 3 gear models give you ultra-realistic playing feelnot just the tonesbut the actual dynamic response of their hardware counterparts. Plus, with IK's proprietary VRM (Volumetric Response Modeling) technology, you can add totally accurate rotating speaker effects and free dual mic placement with room ambience and response to custom craft your tone.More Power - Creative InspirationAmpliTube 3 unleashes more creative power than previous versions, helping you to easily carve new, truly unique voicings for your guitar, bass, keyboard, drum, and vocals. IK's effects let you create sounds you never heard before, and the "drag & drop" effects configuration feature lets you quickly experiment with effects in the signal chain to get that totally unique sound.More Tone - More Than You Can ImagineAmpliTube 3 is the voice for your soul. With this insanely large collection of super-realistic modele

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Alesis MultiMix 8 USB 2.0 Mixer Review

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(More customer reviews)I was a little nervous to buy this without reading someone's assurance that it would do specifically what I wanted: record our band multi-tracked into a MacBook.
But it works great. No hiccups while streaming 6 channels at once into Garageband. Amazing at the price.

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Designed with low-noise analog electronics, the MultiMix 8 USB 2.0 mixer lets you take advantage of 100 studio-grade 28-bit digital effects. Whether used for mobile or studio recording, the MultiMix 8 USB 2.0 mixer makes recording high-quality audio to your computer fast and easy. The MultiMix 8 USB 2.0 mixer is also bundled with award-winning Cubase LE software for instant creativity right out of the box.
Key Features
10-direct outputs to your computer for recording and 2 return inputs for monitoring
High-gain mic/line (XLR and 1/4-inch balanced) inputs with phantom power, 2 stereo balanced 1/4-inch
Line inputs, aux send (to onboard or external effects), stereo aux return
Switchable 75Hz high pass filters
100 onboard 28-bit preset effects including reverbs, delays, chorus, flanging, pitch and multi-effects
3-band EQ per channel with high/low shelving and mid band pass/reject
Separate 1/4-inch balanced main and monitor outs, headphone out
24-bit, 44.1 to 96 kHz operation with high-end A/D and D/A conversion through an integrated USB 2.0 Audio interface
Steinberg Cubase LE included

Specifications
Input Channels
Mic In Sensitivity Range: -60dBu to -10dBu nominal, +5dBu maximum
Line In Sensitivity Range: -40dBu to -+10dBu nominal, +25dBu maximum
Mic/Line Gain Range: +10 to +60dB

Equalization
High-Pass Filter: 75Hz, 18dB/octave
High Shelving: 12kHz, +/- 15dB
Mid Bandpass/Band Reject: 2.5 kHz, +/- 15dB
Low Shelving: 80Hz, +/- 15dB

Aux Sends
Aux Send A & B Gain Range: -∞ to +10dB

Aux Returns
Aux Return A Gain Range: -∞ to +15dB
Effects Level/Aux Return B Gain Range: -∞ to +15dB

Channel Levels
Channel Level Gain Range: -∞ to +10dB

Master Levels
Main Mix, Ctrl Room Gain Range: -∞ to +10dB

1/4-inch Inputs
Stereo Aux Return Level: +4dBu nominal, +20dBu maximum

RCA Inputs
2-TRACK IN Level: -10dBV nominal, +5dBV maximum

1/4-inch Outputs
Main Mix, Ctrl Room, Ext Aux Send Level: +4dBu nominal, +20dBu maximum
Headphone Output: 75 ohm output impedance >105mW into 75 ohms, >40mW
into 600ohms

RCA Outputs
2-TRACK OUT Level: -10dBV nominal, +5dBV maximum

Dimensions and Weight
14.5 x 10.75 x 5 inches
7 pounds

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Focusrite ISA428 Four Classic Microphone Pre-Amps and High-Quality A/D Conversion Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Very versatile preamps! I've had them for 3 years and wouldn't dream of getting rid of them! Very clean, but colorful (in a good way). I've used them on everything from drums to voice to symphony to bass & keyboards (direct). No complaints. I've done shootouts with preamps that were much more expensive and I won't say the ISA428 blew them away, but it came closer than it should have considering the price difference!

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The ISA 428 features four classic, transformer-based microphone pre amps with switchable impedance and direct Instrument Inputs are combined with an optional eight channel 192kHz ADC. An all-new, Soft Limiter circuit precedes the A/D, providing the perfect path into any DAW, Digital Console or direct to Hard Disc Recorder. The input stage provides enhanced control and creativity allowing you to switch between four carefully selected input impedance settings. The original ISA 110 setting is supplemented by three further impedance settings to either perfectly match the pre-amp with any microphone and maximise level, or to use different settings creatively to shape the sound of the microphone being used. Should the need arise to place extra processing between pre-amp and conversion, insert points are also featured on every channel. Protecting the ADC, Focusrite's Soft Limiter is a new optical circuit design, entirely preventing any digital overs, whilst reducing to an absolute minimum the undesirable distortion artefacts that common limiter circuits typically generate. This limiter requires the optional ADC to be fitted in order for it to operate.The ADC embodies cutting-edge conversion technology, encompassed within Focusrite circuitry, providing eight high quality conversion channels, at sampling frequency rates of 44.1, 48, 96 and 192kHz. Running at 96kHz allows for up to 16 (2 x 8, parallel) digital outputs. Digital output formats are dual 9-pin D-sub (AES/EBU, SPDIF) and dual ADAT light-pipe. Full digital metering is provided for every channel, alongside moving coil peak meters, designed to catch even the fastest transients. A second ISA428 analogue unit can be connected utilising the four extra ADC input channels on the rear of the unit containing the optional ADC. This makes full use of the eight channels provided and expands front-end capacity from four pre amps and eight digital outputs to eight Pre amps and eight digital outputs.

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Tascam US-1800 USB2.0 Audio/Midi Interface Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought this unit partly because it came with a nice audio recording program called cubase. I like the interface but trying to register and run the free software has proven to be impossable. Great interface but don't buy it hoping to be able to use the software the company behind the Software has made it impossable to use their product (Steinberg). Interface is really usefull and easy to use. 8 xlr, six 1/4" plus midi and spdif(digital) inputs to connect to your computer with a single usb cord. Four assignable outputs. Phantom power to boot on the xlr ins. Very clean sound and I haven't add any problems with latense. Used it to record my band live, no problems running all 14 analog inputs and spdif at once for 15 tracks.

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The US-1800 audio interface from TASCAM offers more inputs than any interface in its class. Up to 16 inputs and 4 outputs are transmitted to Mac or Windows over high-speed USB 2.0 connection. The US-1800 features eight XLR microphone inputs with phantom power and 60dB of clean gain. Six balanced line inputs are also provided, as well as stereo S/PDIF digital and MIDI in and out.Included with the US-1800 is Cubase LE5, the latest workstation software from Steinberg. This 48-track audio workstation includes must-have features like automation, plug-ins, mixing, editing and MIDI tracks. Cubase LE5 uses standard VST plug-ins for adding virtual instruments and effects.If you want the most inputs into your computer for the minimum amount of cash, TASCAM's US-1800 is the only choice!

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Focusrite Saffire Pro 14 8 In / 6 Out FireWire Audio Interface with 2 Focusrite Mic Preamps Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This works fantastically on my Mac Mini.
Mic Preamps: clear and transparent, both with condensers and dynamics. Max gain is around 60dB. With input volume knob turned 90%, you can do noise-free whispers on an SM57, just to give you an idea of the gain range.
Hi-Z Instrument Input: gain starts at +13dB, causing clipping when direct-recording an electric guitar with passive high-output pickups. This is a design limitation on many audio interfaces. The solution is an active or passive DI box, or turning down the volume pot on your guitar.
Also, at first I thought the instrument input sounded dark and muffled on guitar and bass compared to my previous interface, but turned out the previous was really hyping the signal through treble boost and compression. So the Saffire is actually more honest and even in representing the input signal, meaning it works better with software-based guitar amp simulators, whereas the hyped interfaces result in a scratchier and thin sound. Post-EQ can take care of any perceived darkness both for direct guitar and direct bass, without degradation or artifacts.
Headphone Output: also relatively flat frequency response. My previous interface was hyping the trebles on the headphone out, making it sound harsh on certain headphones. Not the case with the Saffire. I tried both 32 ohm and 200 ohm headphones, and it drives both well. Not loud enough for DJ's in clubs, however. But more than loud enough for mixing and tracking purposes... any louder and you risk hearing damage.
Stability: on my Mac running Snow Leopard, haven't had a single glitch.
Software: I only installed the Mix Control panel. It lets you route audio in various ways, switches between line and instrument inputs, etc... It's very lightweight and loads fast. You'll have to read the manual to learn it fully, but once you do, you'll realize how powerful and useful it is.
Construction: similar to any rack console. It's a half-rack chassis, body is made of steel, front panel of plastic. Knobs are plastic, pots are smooth. Doesn't feel cheap or anything. LED lights are green, not blue (thankfully).
Sound: As I said, the mic pre's are clear and transparent. No muffled, sterile, hissy, cold, grainy, etc... traits that afflict poorer interfaces. Vocals sound honest and direct. I recorded an acoustic guitar and likewise, it sounds recorded as it does in person. Tip: even if you record at 44.1 kHz, use 24 bit instead of 16 bit because it helps with dynamics and headroom and lowers the noise floor.
In conclusion, overall this interface does everything I need, and does it well. As I said, the only potential downside is clipping with electric guitar, which requires a DI box unless you roll down the volume pot. I'm running my guitar through a tube preamp though, and there's no clipping with that since the preamp output is more regulated than the wild fluctuations of a straight pickup.
What else... firewire beats USB, due to greater bus power available. The Saffire comes with its own optional power supply, but I'm not using it, relying on firewire bus power instead. The Saffire is FW400 by the way, so you'll need a 400 to 800 adapter if your computer only has an 800 port. One gotcha is that, although it's not absolutely necessary, Focusrite advises against hotplugging or hot-unplugging. In other words, to be 100% safe you have to plug or unplug the box only when the computer is turned off. I've done it anyway without ill effect, but wince every time I do.
Anyway, this box is pretty affordable for what you get, and is worth the step up from cheaper interfaces that cut more corners. I won't be upgrading my interface for a very long time.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Focusrite Saffire Pro 14 8 In / 6 Out FireWire Audio Interface with 2 Focusrite Mic Preamps

The Saffire PRO 14 is an 8 in / 6 out audio interface with legendary sonic performance and unmatched flexibility at a truly affordable price. The latest in Focusrite's new generation of FireWire audio interfaces, the Saffire PRO 14 is designed to make home studio recording and mixing easy without sacrificing audio quality. This new interface offers two award-winning Focusrite preamps combined with a host of additional I/O options, so you get the tracks you want without having to constantly re-patch your studio. Alongside the two high quality mic preamps, two additional analog inputs, four analog outputs, S/PDIF and MIDI open the door to true multi-track recording. Two Hi-Z instrument inputs let you plug straight in without requiring additional DI boxes, and two virtual Loopback inputs are also available for routing digital audio between software applications. Saffire Mix Control, an 18 x 6 DSP mixer, offers a level of flexibility that is unparalleled at this price point. This Mix Control software enables you to create six separate mixes without latency. Route any combination of input signals and sequencer outputs to any of Saffire PRO 14's outputs. Intuitive one-click configurations help you track, monitor and mix as quickly as possible. Saffire PRO 14 comes with all of the additional tools needed to start making music straight away. These include the latest version of the Focusrite Plug-in Suite, providing a significant upgrade from your standard sequencer effects.In addition, the two Focusrite preamps ensure low noise and distortion, while quality digital conversion and JetPLL jitter elimination technology ensure pristine quality as your audio flows between the analogue and digital domains. Combined with the latest in FireWire interfacing technology, excellent routing flexibility and rock-solid driver stability, the Saffire PRO 14 is the heart of the modern home studio.

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Mackie MC Extender Pro 8-Ch. Control Surface Extension Review

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(More customer reviews)Of course we all know what this unit does! Like its mother the MCU Pro its solidly built and now equipped with really cool Alpine motorized faders! Worked straight out of the box! I use it with Sonar and Reaper and its simply perfect! However!
This unit requires two short midi cables to connect with the main MCU Pro so why, why, why do Mackie ship this with a USB cable??? I mean it doesn't even have a USB port! Maybe someone at the LOUD factory was a little hung over when they packed my unit! Anyhow, that aside! I recommend this product to anyone!

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The Mackie Control Extender Pro control surface extension lets you expand your Mackie Control Universal Pro control surface, eight motorized, touch-sensitive faders at a time.

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Behringer PMP3000 1,200-Watt 16-Channel Powered Mixer Review

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(More customer reviews)We bought this powered mixer to replace a defective one at our church. Our sanctuary can seat 900 people and so it is a fairly large auditorium. The mixer has more power than the previous powered mixer and many more features. I especially like the individual channel mute buttons so we can kill a mic without having to move the gain adjustments. The only thing I did not like about this mixer is there was no block working diagram available. So we had to construct one for ourselves. To a trained eye, by using a block schematic diagram, it is easier to know how to set up the mixer for different applications and to troubleshoot a problem.
The actual steady state power output is more like 200 watts (each of the two stereo outputs)for our 8 ohm speaker system but still is greater that the old powered mixer. That is a total of 400 watts as compared to the (at first glance) advertised 1200 watts. We do not have to use the maximum gain on any channel so the output is fine for our use. There is also a headset output that follows the actual powered signal which can give you a better idea of mixed signal that is sent to the speakers and to our DVD and CD recorders.
The people at Behringer were able to answer all my questions without any problems so tech support was great. We did have a little difficulty in figuring out how to use the FX special effects (reverb, etc) generator but once we did figure it out, using it was just as advertised. You can probably guess that the instruction manual is not extensively done. But with a limited budget for an emergency purchase of a powered mixer, we are thoroughly satisfied with the quality and price.
The price is exceptional and caused a few doubting comments about how could we get what we needed for such a small price. We have been using the unit for two months now with absolutely no problems.
My suggestion is that before you purchase this unit, download the instruction manual from the Behringer site. You will see the output connection is not a 1/4 jack. If that is what you have, you will have to buy an adapter or convert the present cable connection to the new type. The adapters or connectors are not very expensive (Neutrik NA4LJX Speakon To 1/4" Mono Jack Adapter)and cost under $11 including shipping. You can optionally by the Speakon connectors and convert the speaker cable to the new connector type.

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If you need superior stereo sound for small club gigs, churches or speeches, but have to keep the outboard gear to a minimum, the 16-channel PMP3000 can deliver. This 1,200- Watt mixer has built-in mic preamps and an FX processor, as well as enough power to drive mains and monitors, thanks to dual onboard 600-Watt power amps.

Massive Mono or Stunning Stereo The PMP3000 gives you the choice of 2 x 600-Watt stereo, 2 x 600-Watt dual mono or 1,200-Watt bridged mono sound. Whether the center of attention happens to be a folk trio, a speech, or a synth-rock band with mind-boggling stereo patches, the PMP3000 can accommodate. This sonic versatility also makes it an excellent choice for churches, where vocals and stereo recordings often share face time.
Classic Control, State-of-the-Art Sound Leave the mic preamps at home, because the quality of sound that was once only available in the studio is ready to go wherever you do. Eight built-in, boutique-caliber mic preamps with switchable +48 V phantom power make it possible to use either dynamic or condenser mics with the PMP3000.
Built-in Digital Effects Processor The PMP3000 is also equipped with a 24-bit FX processor, giving you 100 mind-blowing digital effect presets such as delay, chorus and reverb. Apply them to any channel, as well as to the monitors and main output. In case you're pulling double duty as sound engineer and performer, the FX processor features a footswitch jack for remote on/off.
Changing the Channels The PMP3000 gives you excellent flexibility to accommodate whatever a performance requires. Channels 1-8 are for mics, guitars and other mono instruments. Stereo channels 9-16 are ideal for keyboards. All mono channels have 3-band EQ, switchable Low Cut filter for eliminating infrasonics, and Clip LEDs to indicate when the input signal is too hot.
The Ins and Outs Use the CD/TAPE IN RCA inputs to feed in external stereo signals from CD players or tape decks. The VOICE CANCELLER switch eliminates the vocals from pre-recorded music for karaoke applications.
CD/TAPE RCA outputs send line-level signals from the mixer to a recording device. Left and right output 1/4" connectors are there in case you need to connect more power amps. Connect your monitor power amps or active monitor speakers to the MON SEND output.
A STANDBY switch mutes all mic channels during breaks, preventing the microphones from picking up noise or interference. You can leave all faders untouched while you play a CD via the CD/TAPE inputs.
The FBQ Feedback Detection system automatically shows you which frequencies are causing feedback. Just touch the FBQ button and watch the red LEDs on the 7-band graphic EQ pinpoint which frequencies to adjust for optimized sound, without the feedback.
Speaking of Optimized Output The PMP3000's POWER AMP switch toggles between three operating modes: MAIN, MON/MONO and BRIDGE (the power outputs of A and B on the back panel are added and provided at OUTPUT B). Dual mono mode allows you to use Output A for mono Mains and Output B for monitors. This clever functionality powers both your mains and monitors without the need for an additional power amp.
What's in the Box Behringer PMP3000 Powered Mixer, Power Cable, User's Manual

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Focusrite Saffire 4 In/10 Out Firewire Audio Interface Review

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(More customer reviews)I'm very happy with my new Saffire. Great sound, great pre-amps, latency very close to zero, very portable for a FW audio interface, a great compressor among the DSP plugins. Nothing to complain about it. Note: I'm working on a Core Duo Mac Book Pro, with 4GB of RAM and running Logic Pro 8.

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The Focusrite Saffire is a new breed of Firewire interface with onboard DSP and 24-bit/192kHz processing. Saffire fuses state-of-the-art hardware with highly integrated software to take audio interfacing one giant step closer to the professional studio experience.Four inputs (two digital) and 10 outputs (two digital) with unrivalled foldback and monitoring options ensure the engineer has all he needs to navigate through a modern recording session. Focusrite build and sound quality, intelligent front-end design and cutting-edge compression, EQ and foldback reverb software combine to guarantee an intuitive and trouble-free recording experience.The brand new software accompanying the Saffire hardware is a revolutionary new platform from the team that produced LiquidControl and the Forte Suite. This stylish application floats comfortably over any recording software and allows extensive control over the sound of the recorded signals and the multiple (monitor and headphone) output paths.Compression, reverb, amp modeling and EQ Saffire-powered plug-ins are included. All four are also available as a suite of plug-ins from within the recording platform in use. Up to five separate user-defined stereo mixes can be created of all incoming signals and recorded tracks from the recording platform. With such comprehensive monitoring/foldback options and onboard high quality signal processing and effects, the Saffire is truly the interface of choice for the serious recording e...

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Yamaha MG166C 16 Input 6 Bus Rack Mountable Mixer Review

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(More customer reviews)This mixer is great, I can connect my drum set 9 mikes to the XLR plugs, and I still have several open lines. Very easy to use and it takes no time to understand the way it works. Only thing I could have done is take the one with built in effects. Now have to buy a separate Lexicon. As for the USB, I think that standard connecting to a sound card works good as well. I use it live with a Crown, in my studio with headphones, and to my MAC to record on Garage Band. It is big, but not heavy, now a rack is useful when hitting the road. A very good mixer indeed for a reasonable price.

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The MG166C is a compact mixer with 16 input channels, ten mono and four stereo line inputs, Mono inputs have switchable 80Hz high pass filters, switchable 48V phantom power and can accept either ¼" or XLR connections, while stereo inputs can accommodate either RCA or ¼" connectors. All inputs have three band EQ, with a sweepable midrange band on mono channels, as well as 3 aux sends, one switchable pre/post. Six channels offer Yamaha's exclusive single-knob compression. Lighted channel on/off and phantom power switches are easily seen, even on a darkened stage. Dual 12 segment LED meters allow visual monitoring of the main stereo outputs.

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Mackie Thump TH-15A 2-Way Powered Loudspeaker (Single Speaker) Review

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(More customer reviews)These speakers are clean, clear powerful. Very tight and clean bass (no low end "mud". The speakers have a very useable eq section. They have low impedence in and outs that make joining two or more of these (or other active speakers) as easy as plugging in another low impedence mic cable and going to another speaker. This keeps the signal clean and you don't need to utilize additional outputs on your mixer.
The sound is great. I have owned a pair of Behringer (B212) active speakers and a JBL 15 inch speaker in a cabinet driven by a QSC amp for a few years and have generally been pleased with the sound but I was looking for more natural, punchier low end (and I hate lugging the very heavy QSC amp). These Mackie speakers have the sound I was looking for and are actually lighter than my smaller Behringer speakers. I am now useing the Behringers on stands with the Mackies on the floor (I leave the QSC and JBL cab home). It is a very big sound.
Note: After I bought one of these to try, I had trouble getting a second one. Everbody I contacted from Musicinsfriend, Sweetwater and Guitar Center, were all out out of stock and waiting for backorders. Don't be surprised if you hear this when buying these. They are currently a very in demand item. The price on these does not vary much and $350.00 is the going price across the board.


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Designed by the same team that produced the SRM450v2, the Mackie Thump TH-15A delivers 400-watts of chest-pounding power via Class-D Fast Recovery' amplification. Mackie Active electronics optimizes the system for amazing performance. And since it can be pole-mounted or used as a wedge, TH-15A represents the best value available for a complete stage solution.

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Focusrite Saffire Pro 40 Professional 20 In / 20 Out Firewire Audio Interface with Eight Focusrite Pre-amps Review

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(More customer reviews)Great firewire interface recording unit. I am using this with Windows 7 64 bit and Sonar 8.5.3 Professional Edition. I have tried many different interface units and the Saffire Pro 40 has been the easiest to install and use. The preamps are very good and better than other units I tried. The only negative is the latency, as with most firewire devices but even that is not a big issue. I have been using this unit for two years and if it were to fail (out of warranty) I would buy another.

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Focusrite's unparalleled pre-amp legacy forms the foundation of this new interface, with eight award-winning Focusrite pre-amps. These are combined with the very latest in firewire interfacing technology to deliver seamless integration, excellent routing flexibility and rock-solid driver stability. With Saffire PRO 40, sonic integrity reigns supreme. The eight Focusite pre-amps ensure low noise and distortion, whilst quality digital conversion and JetPLL jitter elimination technology ensure pristine audio quality as your audio flows between the analogue and digital domains.Alongside the eight Focusrite pre-amps are a host of i/o options; 10 analogue outputs, ADAT i/o, stereo SPDIF i/o and 2 virtual loopback inputs for routing digital audio between software applications - ideal for capturing online audio. Every channel features phantom power, with the first two channels also featuring -9dB pads for additional headroom. Front panel 5-LED metering for each analogue input offers accurate viewing of levels.Saffire PRO 40 comes with a Suite of Focusrite plug-ins. All-new Focusrite Compression, Reverb, Gating and EQ VST/AU plug-ins provide a significant upgrade from standard sequencer effects, bringing a touch of class to your session. Focusrites established xcite+ bundle is also included. The bundle includes Ableton Live Lite, Novations Bass Station soft synth and over 1 gig of royalty-free samples. Saffire PRO 40 Control, the zero-latency 18 x 16 DSP Mixer/Router software provided with Saffire PRO 40, sets a new standard at this price point for audio interface control. It features unparalleled output routing and monitoring, as well as intuitive one-click set-up solutions, a clear and concise mixing layout and large on-screen metering for inputs, outputs and submixes.Two independent headphone buses are provided, each with their own level controls available on the front panel. A dedicated stereo monitor mix output features pads for improved sound quality when conn...

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MAudio GuitarBox Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Let's start with the downside. For a semi-pro guitarist, the sounds are too amateurish. I could never use these sounds to record anything for public release. For home recording use, it is pretty good. The hookup is easy and you just can't beat ProTools.

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With the Black Box, M-Audio gives guitarists the power they need to produce astounding guitar tones and mind-blowing sounds that no one has ever heard before. This is due in part to the collaboration between M-Audio and Roger Linn while developing the Black Box. With Linn on board, a good idea - a user-friendly interface aimed at guitarists - became a powerhouse, with the addition of Adrenalinn technology, allowing beat- and MIDI-syncing of the effects. The USB connector pumps the output of the Black Box into a computer. And the new firmware update recently added a handful of new features to this already impressive unit, one of which is adding the Black Box to the list of Pro Tools M-Powered interfaces. If you?re a guitarist, you can?t afford not get one of these! And with Pro Tools M-Powered and the Black Box, you can now work anywhere, anytime with the industry standard in music production software! Create and record your project using any of the M-audio interfaces listed below, with genuine Pro Tools software. You can open sessions created in Pro Tools M-Powered software with any Windows XP or Mac OS X Digidesign Pro Tools TDM or LE system, giving you unprecedented production options for your music. Realize your creative vision with the perfect interface for guitarists - the Black Box - and the industry-leading DAW software.

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Mackie Onyx 1220i FireWire Recording Mixer Review

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(More customer reviews)I was recently looking into ways of kicking my podcasting setup up a notch, and settled on the Mackie Onyx 1220i FireWire mixer. I'm extremely pleased with this decision.
Obviously you don't need something this fancy if you're just getting started. And indeed I've been producing my show, Otaku no Podcast, for almost 4 years using just a standard USB microphone. But I was beginning to outgrow that setup. Adding a co-host was one factor that pushed me to upgrade. Having each host on their own mic just sounds much better than having everybody crowd around one mic "jazz singer" style. But what really made me upgrade is dealing with group Skype calls. I have been using computer-based Skype call recording software until now, which worked well enough when I only had one other person on the line with me. But things quickly degenerated when I had more than one additional Skype caller. The way Skype call recording software works is that it puts you on one channel, and all other Skype callers on a second channel. Which is fine if you only have one other caller on with you. But if you have two or three (or more) people on a Skype conference call, then they all get mashed into one channel. Which means that, if one person coughs or sneezes while someone else is talking, or somebody's Skype connection goes haywire, or an ambulance/police car screams by in the background of someone's audio, you're in a world of hurt. There's just no way to edit around that.
What I really needed was a way to put each individual Skype caller on their own channel. Which meant that I needed a multi-channel mixer. The Mackie 1220i's four XLR mic inputs means that I can have up to four "live" cohosts, each on his or her own mic. But its two AUX buses means that, using a "mix minus" type setup, I can have two Skype callers each on their own channel. Mix minus means that the Skype callers can hear everybody else, both myself and my "live" cohosts as well as other Skype callers, but they don't hear an echo of themselves (which gets really weird and annoying). And all of these channels get sucked into my Mac where I can individually tweak or fiddle around with them to my heart's content. Finally I have a Zoom H4n solid state recorder plugged into the mixer's "main mix out," which serves as a backup recording in case the computer recording fails for some reason (it's been known to happen). This has turned out to be a very flexible setup, and the Mackie has performed like a champ. It's well built and rock solid.
Unfortunately, the way "mix minus" works is that you need one AUX channel for each Skype caller. So with this setup I can have up to two Skype callers. If I wanted more, I'd need to move up to a bigger board with more AUX buses such as the Mackie Onyx 1620i, which has four of them. Maybe next year.


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The 12-channel Onyx 1220i delivers stunning performance in a size that is decidedly desk-friendly. Premium analog features like boutique-quality Onyx mic pres, smooth 60 mm channel faders and the proven tone-sculpting capability of Perkins EQ allows for performance that is unmatched in this category. The 16x2 built-in FireWire interface will simultaneously deliver all 12 channels, all auxes and the master L/R signal straight to your favorite DAW with zero routing. How easy is that? You can even return a couple of channels from the DAW right back into a channel strip for mix integration. It's easy, it's professional--it's the Onyx 1220i.

DAW-Friendly Doesn't Even Begin to Cover It Mackie-designed gear is more often than not the result of customer interaction and suggestion. After all, we are making gear for you. For years, our customers have been asking for the freedom to work with any DAW they choose. So when we designed the Onyx-i series, we took this suggestion to heart. We are very proud that Onyx-i mixers are more DAW-friendly than any other interface ever. Onyx-i mixers are qualified by Mackie for use with all major DAWs, including Pro Tools M-Powered 8* Logic, SONAR, Cubase, and more. Now, dedicated Mackie customers can enjoy using their Mackie mixer with the world's most popular DAW. And Pro Tools M-Powered 8 users now have a variety of new--and different--tools to use with their favorite DAW. It's a win-win situation.

*Pro Tools M-Powered 8 users will need to purchase the Mackie Universal driver upgrade available at Mackie.com.

Deep FireWire Integration The Onyx-i Series features deeper FireWire integration than any other mixer out there and offers immensely powerful routing capabilities:

Wet or Dry?--Every channel on the mixer can be routed pre or post EQ to the computer, allowing you to choose whether to implement "EQ to tape" or not.
Studio Quality Effects--All aux sends are routable to the computer, allowing you to utilize your computer as a powerful FX engine by implementing your favorite plug-ins in a live scenario.
Preserve Your Mix--Master L/R is routable to the computer for recording your analog mix. Burn and sell CDs of the mix at the end of the gig!
Mix Integration--Stereo return from the computer can be routed to either the control room for instant monitoring or to a stereo channel for mix integration.
Latency-Free Overdubs--Having a "real" mixer has its benefits. Latency-free overdubs are simple since you are using an analog mixer. No more wasted time dealing with the complicated "DSP" mixers commonly used on standalone interfaces.

TThe 1220i delivers seamless, routing-free FireWire connection to your favorite DAW. All channels, auxes and (of course) the master L/R are simultaneously available to your DAW--with zero routing. The Onyx-i FireWire connection has amazing bandwidth, and the 1220i takes full advantage.

Premium Analog Mixer When it comes to the high pressure environment of a recording session or live performance, you simply cannot beat the stability and reliability of an analog mixer. With features honed over 20 years of design by some of the legends in the industry, the Onyx-i Series mixers are simply the best sounding full-featured analog mixing boards available to the modern sound engineer.

The 1220i has a plethora of analog features that are sure to please. First off, there are four Onyx mic preamps which have been proven as some of the best boutique quality preamps available today. That is, without having to re-mortgage your house in order to pay for all the inputs you need. Then there's the Perkins EQ, which offers highly musical Q filter without sacrificing the precise control that Mackie EQs are known for. Four mono mic/line channels feature 3-band Perkins EQ with a sweepable mid and the additional stereo line channels have 3-band EQ. So, regardless of the type of signal you need to input, there is sure to be a channel with the right EQ for the application. Other analog tools include two aux sends with pre/post fader assignment, allowing for monitor mixes, effects loops or additional headphone mixes. There are built-in DIs on the first two channels for direct connection of guitars or bass and a dedicated talkback section with a built-in mic that lets you easily communicate with band members while on stage or recording. With all these proven, great-sounding analog features, it is easier than ever to create a memorable mix.

Smacks of Quality The Onyx 1220i offers a tremendous collection of professional analog features and extremely deep DAW integration, but it is so much more than that. The sleek, modern design might even tempt you build a museum quality display for your engineer friends to admire. Plus, since it's a Mackie, you can be sure that it is "built like a tank" and will survive years of abuse.

Any audio company can cram a bunch of inferior components into a chassis and, believe us, a lot of them do. This is never the case with a Mackie mixer. Everything about the Onyx-i Series smacks of quality, because only the most quality, high-end components are used throughout the entire signal path. At the front end, you have the pristine signal boost offered by the Onyx mic preamps, which will likely get routed through the legendary Perkins EQ. The signal then passes through a series of sealed rotary knobs, which keep dust and grime out of the potentiometer. Then your mix hits the summing bus, which has been custom-designed to offer the highest possible headroom while preserving the sonic quality offered by the aforementioned components. Maybe you assigned the signal to stream across the FireWire outputs. If so, they had the pleasure of passing through the high-quality Cirrus analog-to-digital converter on their way to your computer. Or maybe you were overdubbing and streamed your backing tracks from your DAW and integrated them into the mix. In that case, you can thank the ridiculously high-end AKM digital-to-analog converter for the immaculate quality of the playback. These converters are extremely high-quality and easily rival the most esoteric (and expensive) interfaces out there today. From start to finish, no matter how you use it, the 1220i offers the quality demanded by industry professionals.

Software Requirements:For PC
Microsoft Windows 7 32 / 64, Vista 32 / 64 RTM, or XP SP 2
Pentium 4, Celeron, or Athlon XP processor
512 MB RAM
For Mac
Mac OS X 10.4.11 – 10.6.2
G4 processor
512 MB RAM

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Focusrite Saffire Pro 24 Firewire Audio Interface, (SAFFIRE PRO 24) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Correction to the January 2010 review that noted problems with Windows 7, 64 bit -- As of March 2010 Windows 64bit and OS X Snow Leopard are fully supported by the focusrite drivers (Saffire Mixcontrol 2.0).
I own both the Saffire Pro 24 and the Saffire Pro 24 DSP. Both have been rock solid on both my Windows and Mac boxes. Plenty of I/O options. If I only was going to get one interface I'd get the Pro 24 DSP as the Virtual Reference Monitoring (VRM) is quite impressive.
Another advantage of these interfaces is that they can be used in standalone mode (i.e. without a computer attached). I use this for one of my setups where I have a couple of synths attached to the Saffire Pro 24. If I want to track something out to my DAW it's as simple as hooking up the firewire cable to my laptop and I'm good to go.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Focusrite Saffire Pro 24 Firewire Audio Interface, (SAFFIRE PRO 24)

The Focusrite Saffire PRO 24 is the latest in Focusrite's new generation of FireWire audio interfaces.As with all Focusrite interfaces, Saffire PRO 24 is the best sounding interface in its class, attentively designed with recording musicians and the modern home studio in mind. With Saffire PRO 24, sonic integrity reigns supreme. The two Focusrite pre-amps ensure low noise and distortion, while quality digital conversion and JetPLL jitter elimination technology ensure pristine audio quality as your audio flows between analog and digital domains. Alongside the two Focusrite pre-amps are a host of I/O options; two additional analog inputs, six analog outputs, ADAT inputs, stereo SPDIF I/O and 2 virtual ‘loopback' inputs for routing digital audio between software applications - ideal for capturing online audio. Front panel 5-LED metering for each analog input offers detailed viewing of levels. Saffire Mix Control, the zero-latency 18 x 8 DSP Mixer/Router software provided with Saffire PRO 24, sets a new standard at this price point for audio interface control. It features flexible output routing and monitoring, as well as intuitive one-click set-up solutions designed to help you track, monitor and mix as quickly as possible. Saffire PRO 24 also comes with all the additional tools needed to start making music straight away. These include the latest version of the Focusrite Plug-in Suite, providing a significant upgrade from your standard sequencer effects. The suite includes Compression, Reverb, Gating and EQ VST/AU plug-ins.Focusrite's established Xcite+ bundle is also included. Focusrite's Saffire PRO 24 is designed to capture every subtle nuance of your recordings, dropped seamlessly and effortlessly into the digital domain, leaving you free to enjoy the freedom of a creative modern music making experience.

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