Apogee Electronics today unveiled Symphony I/O, a new flagship multi-channel audio interface representing 25 years of design excellence and experience. Symphony I/O delivers a totally updated and optimized circuit design for next generation sound quality, Logic and Pro Tools compatibility, modular port configuration, stand-alone operation and compatibility with PCIe, Express/34 card, USB 2.0 and Ethernet.

Symphony I/O builds upon the award-winning design approaches of Apogee’s X-Series and Rosetta Series converters, the Big Ben master clock and the Trak2 mic preamps. It also refines and updates these proven designs with fewer but more advanced components while optimizing their performance with efficient power distribution. This design improvement minimizes the audio path circuitry and maximizes sound quality. And in the tradition of the X-Series and Rosetta series, the entire audio path is DC coupled, resulting in ultra flat frequency response and extremely low phase error.

The I/O Modules are the sound and soul of Symphony I/O, and represent 25 years of Apogee R&D and design excellence. These powerful Modules deliver Apogee’s core competency, superior sounding digital audio recording. With 5 available I/O Modules, you can choose from standard configurations or customize the following: channel count, analog to digital input, digital to analog output, mic preamps and digital I/O. You compose your Symphony I/O.

Apogee Symphony I/O, rear port configuration. Click to zoom.

With a 2-step adjustment using a single front panel encoder knob, Symphony I/O’s Audio Interface Modes (AIM) are ready for the most popular audio workstation environments. This feature allows users of Logic and Pro Tools HD for example, to easily switch back and forth between the two DAWs with the click of a knob and swap of a cable. The Symphony I/O PC-32 connector connects directly to a Symphony 64 card or a Pro Tools HD card. When using a Logic Studio Mac based system, latency is below 1.8ms at 96kHz. If USB is your preferred mode, connecting to Core Audio compatible apps like Digital Performer and Cubase is just as easy. And StandAlone mode calibrates Symphony I/O for simple and direct routing ideal for a variety of uses and applications including Pro Tools LE or Pro Tools M-Powered.

Symphony I/O is an audio hardware platform, designed to deliver the most advanced recording technology available and the flexibility, scalability, and longevity required to power the modern studio. Modular I/O design, total software control, and direct connection to all popular DAWs make Symphony I/O a long-term sound investment.

What makes Symphony I/O a great choice for your studio now and for years to come:

• Flexible design architecture with a base unit and two I/O module slots
• Up to 32 channels of I/O per unit
• Future proof connectivity with PCI, USB, Ethernet and all popular digital formats
• Compatibility with Logic, Pro Tools HD, Pro Tools LE and any Core Audio driven application
• A/D THD+N: -113dB @ +20dBu (0.00024%)
• D/A THD+N: -117dB @ +20dBu (0.00014%)
• D/A Dynamic Range: 129dB A weighted
• Apogee’s proprietary Perfect Symmetry Circuitry (PSC)
• Software controlled AD/DA reference setting
• Variable gain input for keyboards
• Ultra low latency AD/DA conversion
• Total software control of Symphony I/O with Maestro

Cue Maestro 2! Apogee’s software control application, Maestro, has been totally redesigned for Symphony I/O. Featuring a familiar single window, multiple tab interface for quick access to all device and system settings, the new Maestro makes routing, mic preamp adjustment, input and output calibration and low latency monitoring clear and easy to use. To reduce screen clutter, Maestro also features a minimized tool bar view with System Status display, volume controls and buttons to mute outputs and clear meters.

Highlights

• Speaker, headphone, and mic preamp level control
• Clock source, sample rate setting
• Audio Interface Mode (AIM)
• Minimized tool bar view with System Status, volume controls, mute and clear meters buttons
• Software controlled A/D & D/A calibration
• Comprehensive metering
• Intuitive audio routing
• 4 Soft Limit settings: -2 dB, -4 dBfs, Soft Saturate and Soft Crush

Symphony I/O is available for Mac OS only, and requires OS X 10.5.8 or later. It will be available in August 2010. Additional features will roll out in 5 monthly releases from August 2010 to December 2010.

www.apogeedigital.com/products/symphony-io.php

Discuss Symphony I/O in our Hardware forum.

“The MicroBook is small in size but huge when it comes to audio quality,” said Jim Cooper, MOTU Marketing Director. “Our tests show that it matches or exceeds the measured audio specifications of other so-called ‘high-end’ interfaces on the market that cost two and three times as much. So it’s perfect for discriminating users who want quality I/O for on-the-go recording, personal studio tracking, laptop-based DJing, and many other applications.”

The MicroBook gives users a complete personal recording solution for a laptop or desktop computer, with four simultaneous inputs for a microphone, a guitar, and a keyboard or other stereo line level device. The mic preamp delivers neutral coloration and pristine sound, with 20 dB pad and 48V phantom power for condenser mics. Programmable analog, digital, and headphone outputs provide flexible monitoring options.

• 4-input, 2-output bus-powered “plug-and-play” USB audio interface for Mac and Windows.
• 4 x 8 physical input/output channels.
• 10-bus digital mixer to route and mix live inputs with live computer tracks.
• Pre-amp equipped mic input with Precision Digital TrimTM, 48V phantom power, and 20 dB pad.
• Guitar input with Precision Digital Trim.
• Stereo line level analog input (balanced TRS quarter-inch or stereo mini).
• Stereo balanced TRS quarter-inch line level main outs.
• Stereo eighth-inch “mini” line level out.
• S/PDIF digital out (duplicates main out).
• Headphones output on eighth-inch stereo “mini” jack with independent volume control.
• Digitally controlled analog trim for all analog inputs.
• Digital trim for all outputs.
• CueMixTM FX no-latency mixing and monitoring with EQ and dynamics processing.
• 7-band parametric EQ and compression.
• Test tone and white/pink noise generator.
• Advanced audio analysis software tools, including FFT display, spectrogram “waterfall” display, oscilloscope, X-Y plot, and phase torch.
• Industry standard Mac and Windows audio drivers (Core Audio, Wave, and ASIO) for across-the-board compatibility.
• Compatible with all current and recent generation Macs and PCs.
• Includes AudioDesk DAW software for Mac, USB cable, and mic cable adapter.

On the Mac, the MicroBook interface requires a minimum 1 GHz PowerPC G4 or Intel CPU running OS X 10.5.8 or later, and an available USB port. The MicroBook is available now for $269 MSRP.

www.motu.com/products/motuaudio/microbook/

Discuss the MicroBook in our Hardware forum.

Mackie is proud to announce two new Onyx-branded premium recording interfaces – the Onyx Blackjack and Onyx Blackbird. These new interfaces provide the unmatched quality, feature sets and level of innovation for which Onyx gear is known for, priced to make any working musician or engineer smile.

Onyx Premium Recording Interfaces deliver ultra-professional recording quality and innovative features that make them really easy to use. Boutique-quality Onyx mic preamps and industry-leading AD/DA converters deliver unmatched fidelity, headroom and transparency for your recordings. Plus, features like true analog hardware monitoring simplify your workflow, allowing you to work like a pro and deliver the results you demand. From a simple, bus-powered desktop solution to a high-quality, high-input front end to your studio, these interfaces offer the utmost in sonic quality and simplicity. It’s time to work smarter and sound professional with Mackie Onyx Premium Recording Interfaces.

Onyx Blackjack 2×2 USB Recording Interface

• 2×2 24-bit recording to Mac/PC
• 2 Onyx mic preamps
• 48V phantom power for studio condenser mics
• 2 built-in DIs
• True analog hardware monitoring in mono/stereo
• Separate level control for monitors/phones
• Includes Tracktion 3 Music Production Software
• www.mackie.com/products/onyxblackjack/

Mackie Onyx Blackbird FireWire audio interface, rear ports, click to zoom

Onyx Blackbird 16×16 FireWire Recording Interface

• 16×16 24-bit/96kHz recording via FireWire/ADAT to Mac/PC
• 8 Onyx mic preamps
• 48V phantom power for studio condenser mics
• 2 easy-access Super Channels with integrated DIs, low cut switches and inserts
• Expandability via ADAT and wordclock I/O
• Dual headphone outs with independent level controls
• Separate monitor, main and alt outputs
• Powerful Blackbird Control DSP Matrix Mixer
• Includes Tracktion 3 Music Production Software
• www.mackie.com/products/onyxblackbird/

On the Mac, both new interfaces require a G4 processor or faster. The Onyx Blackbird requires OS X 10.5 or later, while the Blackjack requires OS X 10.4.11 or later. According to Mackie, both will be shipping soon.

www.mackie.com/products/onyxinterfaces/

Discuss the Onyx Blackjack and Blackbird in our Hardware forum.

Cakewalk has announced the immediate availability of a new Mac Support update for the V-Studio 20, enabling the VS-20 hardware and Effects Editor to be used with all popular Mac-based recording software titles. The update provides Mac users with all the benefits of recording with the V-Studio 20 COSM guitar and vocal effects; and use of the V-Studio 20 hardware as dedicated universal DAW controller. Additionally, both GarageBand and Logic can be further integrated into the V-Studio 20 system using the included custom control surface plug-in included in this update.

The compact V-Studio 20 hardware combines a USB audio interface, stereo microphones, and a basic universal DAW controller that supports all popular digital recording software for Mac/PC via Mackie control protocol. The V-Studio 20 matches the simplicity of a portable, hardware recording system with the power, flexibility, and control of modern computer-based recording. Whether you’re at home or on the road, you can easily connect a guitar or mic to the VS-20 hardware, then dial up genuine BOSS guitar effects and Roland’s breakthrough COSM modeling.

VS-20 Hardware Features

• Stereo USB 24 bit, 44.1 kHz Audio Interface
• Genuine COSM DSP Chip providing zero-latency direct monitoring
• Eight dedicated channels with volume and track select
• Track bank controls
• Full Transport Controls
• One-touch access to the VS-20 Effects Editor
• One-touch access to the chromatic tuner in the VS-20 Effects Editor
• Controls for browsing presets in the VS-20 Effects Editor
• Input selection and input sensitivity controls
• Dedicated volume controls for DAW output, VS-20 Effects and Main Outs
• XLR Mic Input with Phantom Power
• Hi-Z Instrument Input
• 1/4″ Stereo Line Inputs
• Built-in Stereo Microphone
• 1/4″ Headphone Output
• Stereo RCA Line Out
• Two independent 1/4″ Footswitch and Expression Pedal jacks

The free V-Studio 20 Mac Support update includes:

• OS X 10.5 & 10.6 (Snow Leopard) drivers for the V-Studio 20 hardware (Mackie Universal Control)
• OS X 10.5 & 10.6 (Snow Leopard) support for the COSM effects Editor
• Plug-in for GarageBand and Logic to allow control surface support

The V-Studio 20 Mac Support Update for OS X 10.5 & 10.6 (Snow Leopard) is available as a free download from the Cakewalk website.

www.cakewalk.com/support/kb/reader.aspx?ID=2007013161

Discuss the V-Studio 20 in our Effects forum.

IK Multimedia is pleased to announce AmpliTube iRig, the ultimate mobile guitar amp and effects rig system for iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad. AmpliTube iRig is a combination of an easy-to-use instrument interface adapter and the new AmpliTube for iPhone app for guitar & bass. Now you can jam anywhere with world-class guitar and bass tones, from the leader in studio-class guitar and bass software.

Simply plug the iRig interface into your iPhone, plug your instrument into the appropriate input jack, plug in your headphones, amp or powered speakers, download AmpliTube FREE for iPhone and start rocking. You’ll have at your fingertips the sound and control of 3 simultaneous stompbox effects + amplifier + cabinet + microphone just like a traditional guitar or bass stage rig. Add amps and effects as you need them — you can expand your rig with up to 10 stomps, 5 amps, 5 cabinets and 2 microphones in the AmpliTube iRig app custom shop.

The new iRig interface adapter is the easiest way to get your instrument’s signal into your iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad. Simply plug iRig into your mobile device, plug your instrument into the iRig, plug headphones or amplifier to the output and you are ready to rock! The iRig is the ideal companion not only to the AmpliTube for iPhone app, but also works with any other recording, processing or tuning app. Plus, you can also use the iRig with line level signal sources such as synthesizers, keyboards or mixers.

At the core of the AmpliTube iRig System is AmpliTube -- the leader in gear modeling software for professional recording studios. Now AmpliTube for iPhone gives you incredible, ultra- realistic sound and functionality in a convenient mobile platform app. With the AmpliTube for iPhone software, you’ll have an entire guitar/bass rig at your fingertips, comprised of 3 simultaneous stompbox effects, an amp-head plus cabinet and a microphone. With AmpliTube fully loaded, you will be able to choose between 5 amp models (clean, crunch, lead, metal, bass) with full tone and drive controls, 10 stompbox effects (delay, flanger, phaser, overdrive, distortion, filter, wah, fuzz, octaver, chorus), 5 cabinets and 2 microphones (dynamic and condenser).

Plus, AmpliTube for iPhone features a chromatic digital tuner and a metronome. You can also import and play along with songs or backing tracks, and create, save and recall up to 36 presets on the fly!

• Real-time guitar and bass mobile multi-FX app
• Full rig made by 3 simultaneous stompboxes + amp + cabinet + mic
• 10 Stomps, 5 Amps, 5 Cabinets, 2 Mics available
• Import and play along with songs and backing tracks with real-time effects
• 36 presets can be saved/recalled on the fly
• Includes tuner/metronome
• FREE, LE and Full versions available
• FREE and LE versions expandable with a-la-carte downloadable gear
• Same low-latency as Mac/PC system

AmpliTube iRig is available for pre-order from the IK online store as well as from IK selected dealers and distributors worldwide for $39.99 / €29.99 MSRP. AmpliTube for iPhone will be available in 3 versions from the iTunes App Store:

• AmpliTube FREE: Includes 2 stompboxes, 1 amp+cabinet, and 2 microphones.
• AmpliTube LE: Includes 4 stompboxes, 1 amplifier + cabinet, 2 microphones for $2.99 / €2.39.
• AmpliTube FULL: Includes the entire collection of available gear with 10 stompboxes, 5 amps + cabinets and 2 microphones for $19.99 / €15.99.

More gear can be added to FREE and LE through in-app purchase of a-la-carte models with stompboxes costing $2.99 / €2.39 each and amplifiers + cabinets for $4.99 / €3.99 each.

www.amplitube.com/irig

Discuss AmpliTube iRig in our iPhone OS forum.

Metric Halo has announced the new LIO-8 multichannel A/D/A converter, processor and interface. Based on Metric Halo’s ULN-8 technology platform, the LIO-8 is perfect for the audio professional that needs archival quality conversion, processing and interfacing. Equally at home in a mastering suite, mix suite or in a recording studio with external preamps, the LIO-8 provides conversion performance that is as stunning as that provided by the ULN-8.

According to Joe Buchalter, President of Metric Halo, “After we introduced the ULN-8, we got a lot of feedback from the professional audio community: It sounds fantastic, it’s incredibly powerful, it’s a great value and I wish I could get it without the mic pres! – For a variety of reasons, many folks do not need the preamps that we built into the ULN-8, but wanted to take advantage of the exceptional conversion and interfacing. For example, some engineers already have a collection of great preamps or a great console, and other engineers have no need for preamps at all in their mastering and edit suites. So we built the LIO-8 for these folks – a product that provides the exceptional ULN-8 conversion, mixing and interfacing without the expense and power requirements of the preamp section – increasing the value proposition for those who don’t need built-in pres.”

The LIO-8 includes Metric Halo’s 2d Signal Processing bundle of essential signal processing plug-ins as a standard feature; the full +DSP plug-in suite can be added at any time via a software license (or as with all Metric Halo products, can temporarily acquire a +DSP license while being used in a larger system with any other +DSP licensed unit).

The LIO-8 is not just built on the same platform as the ULN-8 — it can become one. Following in Metric Halo’s longstanding commitment to Future-Proof products, users can add ULN-R mic preamps to the LIO-8 after purchase in either 4 or 8 channels blocks. The LIO-8 can also be ordered with 4 or 8 ULN-R preamps at the time of initial purchase.

With everything you need to record, mix, process, and master audio (just add your DAW of choice, transducers and, if needed, preamps), the LIO-8 is your one-stop solution for editing, mixing and mastering suites. Even if you are using a DAW or recording system that does not support the LIO-8 FireWire interface, the unit’s standalone operation and standard AES and analog interfaces allow you to use it as the Audio Front End and Monitor Controller for Pro Tools, standalone and PC-based recording systems.

LIO-8 Features

• Eight channels of archival quality, zero-phase distortion DC-coupled, calibrated 192k A/D
• Ten channels of archival quality, zero-phase distortion DC-coupled, calibrated 192k D/A
• Two channels of exceptional ultra high-Z direct input for instruments
• 8in/8out 192k AES interface (single wire)
• Full-featured front panel tactile control surface for standalone and connected operation
• Eight channels of analog domain send (active split before conversion)
• Metric Halo’s exclusive per-channel selectable Character
• Word Clock in and out
• Digitally-controlled analog domain 7.1 monitor control
• Full-featured fifteen segment precision metering
• SMPTE I/O channels
• MIDI I/O for direct connect of Mackie Control protocol control surface
• Integrated mixing and deep instantiable DSP processing w/basic plug-in bundle
• Rock-solid stability — mature, real-world-tested firmware, & time-tested fifth-generation Mac OS software and drivers
• FireWire interfacing with ultra-stable, ultra low-latency drivers (FW400 & FW800 supported)
• Exceptional power performance (only 25 watts – DC powerable)
• Low mass (5.7 lbs. / 2.6 kg.)
• Extremely compact (everything in 1 RU)
• Rack-mountable

The LIO-8 is a modern conversion system. Combining world-class conversion and interfacing, the LIO-8 provides mastering room, archival quality conversion at multichannel prices. From a quality perspective, the LIO-8 provides a complete mastering toolkit – ready to drive a mastering suite. With transparent converters (A/D/A conversion is inaudible) and transparent reciprocal processing, the LIO-8 provides a load-in, monitoring and processing interface for any mastering suite. Eight channels of conversion and AES interfacing allow for multiple analog and digital processing signal chains as well as monitoring and processing in surround. If more analog processing chains are required, additional LIO-8s may be added. The LIO-8 can also be combined with ULN-8, 2882 and ULN-2 units in a complete recording system.

The integrated mixer in the LIO-8 is not a mere cue mixer. It is a complete digital console with mono to 7.1 bus support, monitor control section, instantiable delay-compensated processing with full delay-compensated send and return support in the mixer. Not only can you mix monitor mixes for performers with essentially zero latency, you can also mix the show live for an immediate stereo reference.

At mix down time, utilize the acclaimed mixing and processing engine in the LIO-8 as your ultra-high-quality digital outboard summing system. Or, if you are an analog-summing aficionado, you can use the exceptional converters in the LIO-8 to drive your analog summing bus and capture the results. The LIO-8 A/D/A is penalty free. But as many engineers have discovered, the exceptional mix-bus quality of the 2d Mix engine coupled with MH’s exclusive Character processing may leave you wondering why you would go to the trouble to use an analog summing bus, as it is already in the LIO-8.

The LIO-8 has an MSRP of $3,995, and is available immediately from Metric Halo and its world-wide distribution channel.

http://www.mhsecure.com/v5mm/LIO-8.html

Discuss the Metric Halo LIO-8 in our Metric Halo forum.

RME has announced the impending delivery of Babyface, a new 22-channel portable USB 2.0 audio interface. Babyface sports digitally controlled mic preamps, instrument input, ADAT, S/PDIF and MIDI ports. The built-in TotalMix FX DSP mixer includes high-quality EQ, delay and reverb for tracking and monitoring.

• Sample rates up to 192 kHz
• Analog I/O x2
• Mic/Line preamp x2, digitally controlled
• Alternate Instrument Input
• Stereo Headphone Output
• ADAT I/O
• S/PDIF optical port (switchable with ADAT I/O)
• MIDI port
• USB 2.0 port

The Babyface package will include TotalMix FX and DIGICheck software, XLR breakout cable, optical cable, USB cable and power supply. Additional BO9632XLRMKH XLR breakout cables (shown above) may be purchased separately.

Babyface is currently priced at €599. No US pricing has been announced yet.

http://www.rme-audio.de/en_index.php

Discuss the RME Babyface in our Hardware forum.

Line 6 has announced MIDI Mobilizer, the first MIDI interface available for Apple iPhone and iPod touch. MIDI Mobilizer is a low-profile device which fits into the standard 30-pin docking connector. Together with MIDI Memo Recorder, a free app available for download via the iTunes Store, it will present MIDI musicians with a host of performing, recording and data backup solutions.

“We’re very excited to announce MIDI Mobilizer, the first MIDI interface of its kind,” remarked Marcus Ryle, SVP of New Business Development at Line 6. “It will connect MIDI musicians to the most portable platform ever, and allow them to play, record, and store any MIDI information.”

MIDI Mobilizer is compatible with millions of pieces of classic and modern MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) devices such as synthesizers, digital pianos, effects processors, and even Line 6 guitar amps and POD products. Virtually any gear with standard MIDI 5-pin DIN connectors can now be directly connected to an iPhone or iPod touch.

MIDI Mobilizer specifications

• Compatible with all models of iPhone and iPod touch (iPhone, iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS, iPod touch, iPod touch 2G)
• Compatible with all MIDI devices that have standard 5-pin DIN MIDI connections
• MIDI In and Out signal-active LEDs
• Connects to the 30-pin connector on the bottom of iPhone or iPod touch
• MIDI In and Out on MIDI Mobilizer via 2.5mm TRS connections
• Includes a pair of 5-foot, 2.5mm-to-5-pin DIN Planet Waves MIDI cables
• Powered by iPhone or iPod touch — no batteries or power supply required

MIDI Memo Recorder app specifications

• Free download via the Apple iTunes Store
• Records all MIDI data received, including notes, controllers, and sysex
• MIDI data time stamped to one millisecond accuracy
• Standard MIDI File format compatible with virtually all DAWs
• Access to Memos via email or WiFi connection

Musicians who rely on computers to store and recall MIDI data during performances will celebrate the ease and reduced setup time afforded by an iPhone or iPod touch, and the simple interface of MIDI Memo Recorder. Plus, no longer will musicians need to travel with the extra weight, bulk and fragility of a computer.

The size and simplicity of MIDI Mobilizer make it ideal for inspiration capture as well as for performance support. Whenever inspiration strikes, MIDI Mobilizer will allow for the capture and review of even the most fleeting of keyboard ideas. Recorded inspirations can then be emailed as an SMF (Standard MIDI File) and opened and edited within virtually any digital audio workstation on your Mac.

MIDI Mobilizer can also be employed as a safety net for performing musicians. During equipment failure, or when using rented gear for a gig, MIDI parameter data stored on an iPhone or iPod touch can be imported into replacement keyboards or other MIDI equipment to quickly restore the exact settings and sounds needed. MIDI Mobilizer is the most portable and affordable solution for transferring MIDI information.

MIDI Mobilizer will ship April, 2010.

line6.com/midimobilizer/

Discuss MIDI Mobilizer in our iPhone & iPod Touch forum.

TASCAM is showing off the new US-800, a lightweight, great-sounding multichannel recording interface for laptop users, at the 2010 NAMM show (Booth #6491).

This portable USB 2.0 based interface offers eight inputs and four outputs for capturing dynamic multi-mic performances. Six XLR microphone inputs each have phantom power for attaching condenser microphones, and premium 192kHz/24-bit audio converters record every detail.

The US-800 includes coaxial S/PDIF digital audio in and out as well as MIDI in and out for linking up to your studio. The rugged, lightweight package is ideal for mobile or desktop recording. For great-sounding multi-mic recording, the US-800 packs an incredible amount of features into an interface you can bring anywhere.

Click to zoom

Features:

• 8-in/4-out USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI interface
• Six XLR mic/line “combi” inputs with phantom power
• Up to 192kHz/24-bit audio resolution
• Lightweight design for mobile or desktop use
• S/PDIF coaxial digital input and output
• Stereo RCA analog output for monitoring
• Standalone only mode for use as microphone preamp
• 2-segment LED metering for each analog input
• 1/4″ and 1/8″ stereo headphone outputs
• 16-channel MIDI input and output
• Includes Cubase LE4 48-track recording software

www.tascam.com/products/us-800.html

Discuss the TASCAM US-800 in our Hardware forum.

TASCAM has upgraded their best-selling US-122mkII and US-144mkII USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interfaces, unveiled the US-2000, a new 16-input audio interface condensed into only one rack space, and announced the US-100, a new USB 2.0 Audio Interface positioned at a breakthrough price.

TASCAM US-122mkII and US-144mkII

The US-122mkII features improved audio performance along with a new, eye-catching compact design. The US-144mkII shares the design improvements, adding S/PDIF digital audio I/O for four channels of 96kHz/24-bit audio to and from a computer. Both interfaces use USB 2.0 technology for hiccup-free low-latency performance to Mac or Windows computers.

The TASCAM US-122mkII and US-144mkII feature a pair of XLR microphone inputs with phantom power for recording condenser mics into a computer. Balanced line inputs and a guitar level in are also provided. MIDI in and out jacks allow for synthesizer and control messages to be passed to the computer, and the unbalanced line outputs connect to studio monitors. The US-144mkII has the addition of digital in and out, for a total of four channels, and a dedicated headphone level control means you don’t need to switch off your monitors when recording on phones. A copy of Steinberg’s 48-track Cubase LE4 is included to begin recording right away.

TASCAM’s US-122mkII and US-144mkII will be available from TASCAM retailers in October. Estimated street price for the US-122mkII is $129, the US-144mkII is expected to sell for $149.

Features:

• Bus-powered USB 2.0 audio interface
• (2) XLR microphone inputs with phantom power
• (2) 1/4″ balanced line inputs
• Switchable guitar level input
• 1/4″ stereo headphone output
• MIDI input and output
• S/PDIF stereo coaxial input and output (US-144mkII only)
• Individual Line and Headphone out level controls (US-144mkII only)
• Up to 96kHz/24-bit audio resolution
• Zero-latency hardware monitoring
• Mac and Windows drivers included
• Steinberg Cubase LE4 48-track recording software included
• Aluminum case construction

TASCAM US-2000

Eight studio-grade microphone preamps welcome condenser microphones, and two of the mic inputs are on the front panel for easy access. An additional six balanced 1/4″ line inputs are provided, as well as four balanced line outs and stereo digital I/O. The front panel features a 100-LED meter bridge for setting input and output levels. The US-2000 connects to a computer through high-speed USB 2.0, and is priced about the same as less-capable 8-channel FireWire interfaces.

Included with the TASCAM US-2000 is Cubase LE4, a 48-track workstation for Mac or Windows computers. It includes flexible hardware controls for zero-latency monitoring during recording. The TASCAM’s US-2000 will be available from TASCAM retailers in October at a projected street price under $500.

Features:

• 16-in / 4-out USB 2.0 audio interface
• 96kHz / 24-bit audio resolution
• (8) XLR microphone inputs with phantom power
• (6) 1/4″ balanced line inputs
• (4) 1/4″ balanced line outputs
• (2) 1/4″ instrument inputs (chan. 7 & 8 on front panel “combi “jacks)
• Stereo S/PDIF digital in and out
• 100-LED meter bridge (5 segments for each input and output)
• Zero-latency direct monitoring with mono/stereo switch for each pair of inputs
• 1/4″ balanced stereo monitor output with its own volume control
• 1/4″ stereo high-powered headphone output
• Mac and Windows compatible
• Steinberg Cubase LE4 48-track recording software included
• High-tech, attractive aluminum case design

TASCAM US-100

This entry level interface features a microphone input as well as instrument level input for direct recording guitar or bass. Stereo line inputs are provided, and can be switched to phono-level to connect a favorite turntable to digitize a vinyl collection. All of this is housed in a solid aluminum chassis to withstand any abuse from the road to the dorm room.

The US-100 is a 48k/16-bit stereo audio interface that connects to a Mac or Windows computer using USB 2.0. A free copy of Audacity software is included to start recording right away. Additional features like a 1/8″ stereo headphone output and zero-latency monitoring make the US-100 perfect for songwriters and musicians getting started with recording.

TASCAM’s US-100 will be available from TASCAM retailers in September at a street price under $100.

Features:

• Bus-powered USB 2.0 audio interface
• XLR or 1/4″ microphone input
• 1/4″ guitar-level direct input
• RCA line inputs, switchable to RIAA photo inputs with ground lug
• 1/8″ stereo headphone output
• 48kHz/16-bit audio resolution
• Zero-latency hardware monitoring
• Mac and Windows compatible
• Audacity recording software included
• Solid aluminum case construction

TASCAM has also created the Track Pack X1 and Track Pack X2 bundles for musicians looking for an inexpensive way to start recording in their computers. The Track Pack X1 contains the new US-100 USB interface, dynamic microphone and set of closed-ear headphones for under $150. The Track Pack X2 features the new US-122mkII audio interface, TM-78 large-diaphragm condenser microphone and Cubase LE4 48-track recording software for under $200. The new US-100 and US-122mkII interfaces are compatible with Mac and Windows computers, including Apple’s new Snow Leopard operating system. TASCAM Track Packs will be shipping in time for holiday sales.

www.tascam.com/

Discuss TASCAM audio interfaces in our Hardware forum.

Mackie today announces the launch of its Onyx-i Series FireWire Recording Mixers, delivering premium analog features, tremendous flexibility and built-in 24-bit/96kHz FireWire I/O. Onyx-i FireWire mixers can be used with all major DAWs, and is qualified by Mackie for use with Pro Tools M-Powered 8*, offering those users a host of new hardware options.

“There are real benefits when using an analog mixer as a front end to your favorite DAW,” said James Woodburn, Mackie product manager. “Those who have been intimidated by digital recording will love the familiar layout and feel of a mixer. Those who are already into it will enjoy increased flexibility and speed.” Woodburn concludes, “Onyx-i mixers are the ideal combination of interface and mixer for anybody who needs the best of both worlds…simply put, it’s a better way to record.”

The new Onyx-i Series mixers feature extremely deep FireWire integration and a host of proven, high-quality analog features like Onyx mic preamps and Perkins EQ. Users can choose to implement the Perkins EQ into the recording path at the push of a button, and can also choose to record auxes, groups (1640i) and the master L/R signal. The flagship Onyx 1640i incorporates a massively flexible 16×16 FireWire interface, allowing the user to return up to 16 DAW channels right back into the channel strips for a true tape-style mixdown.

• Qualified by Mackie for use with all major DAWs, including:
  • Pro Tools M-Powered 8*
  • Logic
  • SONAR
  • Cubase
  • Ableton Live
• Boutique-quality Onyx mic preamps
• Perkins “British style” EQ on every channel
• Flexible FireWire routing, including aux sends and pre/post EQ assignment for all channels
• Stereo playback from DAW, returned to control room or into channel for integration into mix
• Full 16×16 FireWire channel streaming for ultimate DAW integration (Onyx 1640i only)

“Since we built the FireWire interface right into the heart of each mixer, Onyx-i offers a significant increase in performance and value over the older Onyx Compact Series where the FireWire was an additional cost option,” remarked Woodburn.

The Onyx-i Series arrives in four models, each with a unique combination of input and EQ types. The 820i will have a U.S. MSRP of $469.99, the 1220i will have a U.S. MSRP of $899.99, the 1620i will have a U.S. MSRP of $1299.99 and the Onyx 1640i will have a U.S. MSRP of $2199.99 (all models include built-in FireWire interface).

Onyx 820i — 8 channels, 3 Onyx mic preamps, 8×2 FireWire

Onyx 1220i — 12 channels, 4 Onyx mic preamps, 16×2 FireWire

Onyx 1620i — 16 channels, 8 Onyx mic preamps, 16×2 FireWire

Onyx 1640i — 16 channels, 16 Onyx mic preamps, 16×16 FireWire

* The Onyx-i Series Mixers are qualified by Mackie for use with Pro Tools M-Powered 8. Mackie will release a driver (via www.mackie.com) together with full details of how to use the Onyx-i Series with Pro Tools M-Powered 8 in the coming weeks.

Onyx-i Series mixers are available now. Visit the Mackie web site to find a local dealer or buy direct from Mackie online.

http://www.mackie.com/products/onyxiseries

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Native Instruments today announced availability of the AUDIO 2 DJ, the world’s smallest USB audio interface for DJs. Delivering the exact same audio quality and performance as the acclaimed AUDIO 8 DJ and AUDIO 4 DJ interfaces that are used by professional club DJs worldwide, the AUDIO 2 DJ offers users of TRAKTOR and other DJ software a unique new balance of quality, size and price.

With a footprint no larger than a deck of cards, the bus-powered AUDIO 2 DJ literally fits in a pocket. At the same time, it can accommodate the most demanding club systems due to its studio-grade 24bit/96kHz Cirrus Logic converters and its special high-power output amplifiers capable of delivering a pristine +9.7dBu audio signal. Robust low-latency drivers for Windows and Mac OS X enable the responsiveness that DJs need for tight mixing.

The dual stereo outputs of the AUDIO 2 DJ provide the necessary connectivity to route two decks separately into an external DJ mixer, or to output independent master and cue signals when mixing in software. Two included RCA break-out cables make set-up fast and convenient, making AUDIO 2 DJ the ideal audio interface for travelling DJs who don‘t want to compromise on performance and quality.

AUDIO 2 DJ is now available for a suggested retail price of $119 / 99 € at authorized dealers and in the NI Online Shop. The Mac version requires OS X 10.4 or later, a G4 1.4 GHz or Intel Core Duo 1.66 GHz or faster, 512 MB RAM, and a USB 2.0 port capable of providing 5V 500mA bus power. No additional power supply or battery is needed.

www.native-instruments.com/audio2dj.info

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