Tascam US122 Audio/MIDI Interface with Free Software Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I finally got the unit. It got derailed and took a while but i need it and am satisfied with price and fact it was delivered to me.

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The US-122 features 2 XLR-based, phantom-powered mic inputs. As one of the only small computer interfaces with analog inserts, you can use the US-122 to place hardware devices (compressors, etc.) into the recording signal chain. Two line-level inputs on balanced 1/4 in. TRS jacks are included, and are switchable to guitar-level for direct instrument recording into your computer. The US-122 also provides a dedicated control for adjustable zero-latency direct monitoring, providing a sonically pure reference point before entering DAW processing.

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Tascam US-122L Audio/MIDI Interface Review

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(More customer reviews)I bought this Tascam about a year ago and I am very happy with so far. I am using a laptop running Windows XP and haven't had any problems with the device. I find the handling with the Tascam rather easy and think that for this price it is a perfect audio interface for beginners. (And even though it's a little embarrassing to me to mention how "badly" I treat my equipment sometimes, I have to say that I dropped the interface several times and it's still working fine! ;-)). I have connected my electric guitar with it, my keyboard (via both, 1/8 and midi) and I tried different microphones with the Tascam and each of them were picked up just fine.
I really didn't have problems with it and would recommend it as a "beginner's device".

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The follow-up to our mega popular US-122, the new US-122L delivers everything you'd want in a portable audio/MIDI interface.Record two tracks at a time with zero latency; whether you have a PC or a Mac, your song ideas go down in real time, real easy. Its size means you can take it anywhere you take your laptop, yet it's packed with features that make buying it an audio no-brainer. MIDI input and output, high quality mic inputs, 96kHz/24-bit recording (better than CD quality)-all the stuff you'd want without the fluff you wouldn't. The US-122L: the answer to your recording needs.

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ART Z Direct Professional Passive Direct Box Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Have not had the chance to test it yet but the physiscal condition is great, brand new with no visible defects at all. Well packaged and all buttons when pressed feels solid and well made. Will review when I finally use it.

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The ART Zdirect is a high quality totally passive interface that lets you connect instrument, line, or speaker level signals to a mixer or other balanced input thru a high performance audio isolation transformer. The high impedance single-ended 1/4' input is converted by the transformer into an isolated balanced low impedance signal source. The Zdirects audio transformer has an extremely flat and wide frequency response and can handle high signal levels while still maintaining an isolated balanced low impedance output. This gives the Zdirect a very clean and neutral sound with a wide variety of signal sources and over long signal runs in high noise environments. The Input Attenuator switches allow for a wide range of signal levels and the Input Thru jack allows for tapping off of your signal chain. The Ground Lift switch lets you totally separate the input and output signal grounds, when appropriate, to isolate two systems, thereby reducing hum and ground-loop noise. What further sets the Zdirect apart from other "DI" boxes are its extended features and versatility. ART has added a switchable low pass Filter that cuts out all very high frequency interference. This Bessel filter on the output is placed out of the audio range and is primarily intended to reduce radio frequency interference before it gets into the main system. The filter is also very effective in reducing any digital computer noise artifacts when using the Zdirect as an interface between a computer based audio workstation and your monitors. The Phase Invert switch, while not normally included with your run of the mill D.I. box, has been added to allow you to switch signal polarity right at the source. This feature is especially handy when you are combining a direct tap with a microphone feed in the mix. The compact black anodized all aluminum case and it's passive design allow the Zdirect to provide years of trouble free service in Live Sound, Permanent/Fixed Install

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Tascam FIREONE Firewire Audio Interface Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I recently upgraded to a MacBookPro with Logic 7 on it. I needed a control surface that was Firewire based and would allow good functionality and portability. This audio interface/control surface provides a nice touch. I went from an Ozone Midi controller to this because this one was Firewire-based AND I never was into using the keyboard. For my purposes, plugging a mic, guitar, bass and electronic drums this was a great option. It took a little bit of fiddling to work with a MacBookPro (with Tiger and Leopard) and involved a rollback of Firewire drivers/firmware which is available on the Tascam website.
Without the rollback, the control surface will not work (or will work unpredictably). This is a Mac/Logic 7 issue. Anyway, I'm pleased. It looks great, works great (after Fix for Mac OS X 10.4.10 FireWire) and seems very durable.
Time will tell.

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2-Channel FireWire Audio Interface. Large weighted backlit Jog Wheel. Programmable Function Keys. MIDI I/O. Includes recording software

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Edirol FA-66 6 x 6 FireWire Audio Interface Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've been using this product for about a year now and it has some real strengths in terms of audio fidelity and everything being in the one unit. I shared some of the difficulties of the last user initially, using a Dell Inspiron 8600, but was able to resolve them. The FA-66 can be resource fussy - not much extra needs to be going on with the computer before there is skipping. Maxing out the buffer fixes this, but this is devastating in terms of latency. The Windows that ships with Dells is less customisable than plain-vanilla Windows, and does have lots of things running in the background. I eventually identified that the anti-virus software was launching a separate app to check for updates (every 10 minutes!) and that this was causing skipping. Audio programs themselves - despite being resource intensive - don't seem to cause the problem. Once I disabled this app everything was good and I could operate at latencies of about 4ms without any problems.
There are a lot of good external units out there of which this is one. It really comes down to what you want and what software is packaged with the unit. 192KHz is overkill since consumer products like these have too much DAC jitter for this to be relevant. 96KHz is probably pushing it. But for straight-forward home or field recording where you don't want to bother with a mixer or a separate midi box, this is hard to look past. The inclusion of an analogue limiter sets it apart from offerings from M-Audio and the like, it is solidly built and having phantom power is very handy.
November 2007 Update - I've been using this with a MacBook Pro for a year now and its a dream. My recent purchase of Apple Logic Studio completes a really solid set up, exposing me to the harsh reality that any remaining limitations are user-based.

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6 x 6 FireWire Audio Interface

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Focusrite Saffire LE 6 In/8 Out Version 2 Firewire Audio Interface Review

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(More customer reviews)I've had this soundcard (audio interface would be more accurate) for about 2 years, and since that time there have been alot of new USB and some firwire soundcards put on the market. Alot of the newer interfaces are also smaller by comparison but I still think that this as a serious recording interface can't be beat.
I recommend the Saffire LE over the Saffire because the main difference is the Saffire (399) version has sound effects built into the soundcard, and the Saffire LE has the effects bundled as VST plug ins which can be used with any VST compatible program (requires registration though).
I have this soundcard and a Echo MiaMIDI Digital PCI Audio Interface (another workhouse, had over 5 years), and I use this for either laptop recording, or hook it up to my desktop when I want to record straight from an instrument. I've recorded digitally and analog from an MPC 1000 and 2000, and various midi keyboards, also used the mic inputs with a Shure microphone, great quality.
The reason for four stars instead of five? If you use this soundcard with a MINI-firewire plug, like the ones built into most Dell laptops, make sure you have the latest version of the firmware to make up for any latency (delay, audio dropout) coming from using a mini-firewire plug versus a regular Firewire 400 or 800 port. This shouldn't be a problem on Macs or most PCs desktops with FIREWIRE PORTS, but it was a small issue when I first started using it with a Dell laptop, after updating the software the latency issues were greatly improved (basically non-existant). And again this is a FIREWIRE ONLY audio interface, it WON'T WORK WITH USB! Hope this is informative, have fun!

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Focusrite Saffire LE is bundled with a host of other software titles and audio samples. Focusrite Saffire LE FireWire Audio Interface ensures the recording musician has¡­. Buy Focusrite Saffire LE FireWire now! Buy Focusrite Saffire LE FireWire now!

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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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IK Multimedia AmpliTube 3 Amp & FX Tone Modeling Software Review

Average Reviews:

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

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)DO NOT BUY THIS ITEM. IT IS NOT THE ITEM LISTED. I orded this item from Woodwind and Brass. My receipt from Amazon indicated that I had ordered the Tascam US-1800 as listed in the title of this sale and described in the description box. I was very disappointed to receive in the mail instead the Tascam GB-10, a small guitar/bass trainer that retails at $199 and sells nearly everywhere for the $149 price. I contacted the seller and received this email in response . . .
Thank you for your recent inquiry. In our system it shows you purchased the Tascam GB-10 Guitar/Bass Trainer/Recorder for 149.00. You may return that item or have an exchange set up for the correct item you wish to purchase. Below I have provided a price quote for the Tascam US-1800 with a 2 year protection warranty. You can reply to this email for return instructions or call us at 800-348-5003. We appreciate you choosing The Woodwind and Brasswind.
Please feel free to contact us if you have any other questions or concerns, or if you are not completely satisfied with the service you have received from us today. We appreciate your feedback.
I replied to this message with my concerns about this misquote and will further report here as to how this inconvenient situation is handled by customer service

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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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IK Multimedia AmpliTube Fender Studio Software/Hardware Bundle + StealthPlug USB Interface Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This product gives you a choice of virtual Fender amps to run on your PC or Mac bundled along with some effects pedals and a tuner. They also include the interface between your guitar and the PC in the form of a jack plug to USB adapter which also includes a standard headphone socket. The first thing you notice after installing the software is that it is impossible to listen to your guitar via your PC speakers (I would not have bought this product had I known this before hand) this leaves only the headphone option, with any of the amps master volumes set to the absolute minimum (just above zero) the sound through the headphones is so loud it is unbearable, the volume controls on the USB interface appear to do nothing either. Also the virtual controls on the amps (the rotary volume and tone pots) are a total nightmare to adjust with a mouse making any of the many (there are millions of them) adjustments you have to make to amps or effects a total chore.
No fun at all. I suggest buying a real Fender practice amp instead if you can afford it.

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AmpliTube Fender Studio is a condensed version of the official guitar/bass Amp and FX software AmplitTube suite, bundled with the StealthPlug guitar-to-USB audio interface cable. It includes the AmpltiTube X-GEAR expandable guitar/bass amp and FX modeling system, Riffworks T4 recording software and AmpliTube Fender LE Amp and FX modeling software which includes 15 pieces of gear sampled from the most sought-after classic and modern Fender amps, cabinets, stompboxes and rack effects.

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Mackie Onyx 32 Mixer (4 Bus, 28 Onyx Preamps and 2 Stereo Channels) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Esta mezcladora es un equipo increiblemente genial, logramos superar todas las desventajas que habíamos tenido tiempo atrás. Tiene una consistencia robusta en los componentes, todos los controles demuestran gran calidad. El manual es sencillo e incluso puedo mencionar que aprendí muchas cosas del manual ya que no se limitan a explicar cuestiones técnicas sino más bien se obtienen ejemplos prácticos. El control que me proporciona sobre lo que quiero tener en el monitor/phones es increible. Todo lo que siempre había querído hacer para poder monitorear la mezcla ahora es posible. La calidad de la ecualización es estupenda realmente no es dificil lograr una equalización adecuada en pocos segundos. El compresor/limitador es un recurso importantísimo que va por el mismo precio. El control de las líneas auxiliares es genial.

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Mackie Onyx 32·4 and Onyx 24·4 mixers build upon the legendary Mackie SR24.4 and SR32.4 consoles - with their flagship Onyx mic preamps, new 4-band Perkins EQ, 100mm faders, a 6x2 matrix and a built-in stereo compressor limiter - all at a price that won't break the bank. These new mixers bring the innovative feature set and unequalled sound quality of Mackie's Onyx Series to the world of mid-format live mixers, effectively filling the gap between the Onyx Small-Format and 8-bus Onyx 80 Large-Format Live Sound Consoles. The Onyx 4-bus Series mid-format consoles incorporate a host of new features like a full complement of Mackie's highly acclaimed, flagship Onyx preamps that combine greater fidelity, increased headroom and unequalled sonic performance with greater radio frequency rejection and wider dynamic range. Additional Onyx 4-Bus features include a fully balanced signal chain for lower noise and wider frequency range, as well as Mackie's exclusive Cal Perkins-designed four-band EQ circuitry, renowned for its highly musical British sound and wider-range control. Both Onyx 4-Bus consoles also feature a 6x2 matrix, 100mm Panasonic faders, and a fully assignable stereo compressor/limiter section built upon the high-quality THAT 4301 chip. This compressor/limiter features independent threshold, ratio and fast/slow attack controls, and can be assigned to the main output mix, Groups 1 and 2, or Groups 3 and 4. Onyx 4-bus Mid-Format Live Sound Console Features Premium Onyx Mic Preamps on all mono channels Four-Band Perkins EQ Six fully assignable Aux Sends with Pre/post switches, mute and AFL solo Smooth, long-throw 100mm Panasonic Faders Analog direct outs per channel Two Dedicated Stereo Inputs 4 segment channel metering Dedicated talkback section 6 x 2 matrix Built in stereo compressor/limiter An All-New Design for Superior Sound A

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Phonic Portable FireWire Unit FIREFLY-302 Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Is this thing plugged in? I mean, it must be, because all my audio software works perfectly, but there aren't any little pictures or spinning things or eye candy to let me know I've got something hooked up. I guess Phonic are too busy making things that just work right to throw a few dozen latency-bloating apps into my system tray, but couldn't I at least get a useless mixer? Or a control panel whose only purpose is to play noise sequentially through each channel? Or just some light-blue windows like Creative are so fond of tossing around? Oh well, I guess this will have to do.
It works seamlessly with Live and Reason, and even my Windows games patch through the Firefly rather than the on-board once it's plugged in. My only complaint is the absence of a 1/4" mic-in for my unamplified electric guitar, which shouldn't be an issue if I use a 1/4"-to-XLR adapter or just amp the signal going into the line-in port.

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5 x 6 24-bit/192kHz FireWire stream I/O2 x 2 analog operation (RCA)Front-panel microphone in (XLR) with +48V phantom powerHeadphone output with dedicated level controlLow-latency ASIO software direct monitoringPower indicator LEDPowered via FireWire bus or included DC power supplyDual FireWire ports (6- and 4-pin) with bus-powerEasy-to-see accurate LED sig and clip indicators for input and outputMac OSX and Windows XP, Vista and 7 compatibleThe new Phonic Firefly 302 Plus Portable FireWire unit is an easy-to-use, high-quality interface for songwriters to record guitars, keyboards, vocals and more to the computer. Featured are 3 analog (XLR, 1/4" and RCA) inputs and 2 analog outputs, which are streamed to and from the computer in real time through the 24-bit/192kHz FireWire connection. Compatible with the most popular of Digital Audio Workstation software, this compact, bus-powered unit is small enough to go anywhere you want to take your music. Both simple and compact, the Firefly is the most convenient FireWire audio device you will find.

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Alesis MultiMix 8 USB 2.0 Mixer Review

Average Reviews:

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

Average Reviews:

(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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Line 6 GearBox Silver Bundle with Toneport D.I. USB Recording Interface Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)In XP, this thing was great. I upgraded to Vista, and now the outputs have an unacceptable pop and crackle. The Line6 forums are all abuzz about this problem, and there is no solution yet.
I heartily apologize. There was no solution at Line6, but I eventually ran across a fix. Unsurprisingly, Vista is to blame, specifically the power profiles on Vista. The fault lay in the processor power-state transitions. This works ok on Vista on a laptop if you select the "Always On" power state. (Actually, there's an occasional pop even then; if you disable power state transitions in your BIOS, I think you can get rid of them.)
My apologies, and I revise my rating to four stars.

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GearBox Silver Bundle with TonePort D.I. is a powerful and portable USB recording interface that includes Gearbox Plug-In, the ideal guitar processing plug-in for Windows and Mac (Windows RTAS/VST, Mac RTAS/AU compatible). The USB recording interface provides unprecedented low latency monitoring and, with 12 dB more dynamic range than its competitors, offers the clearest, lowest noise for recording guitar. The Gearbox Silver plug-in provides the industry-standard POD and Amp Farm tones: an instant collection of brilliant sounds inspired by vintage and modern guitar amps, bass amps, stompboxes, effects and mic preamps essential for every guitarist, bassist and vocalist.

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Behringer DEQ2496 Component Rack Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)After using this unit about four times, it started crashing with a message that a "fatal error 11" had occured and to reset the device. I could no longer use the device in my live sound PA system due to its unreliability.
I put some heatsinks on the SHARC digital processor chips which were running too hot to touch with your finger. Once the heatsinks were in place, the unit did not crash even after sitting in my garage in 95 degree heat.
If not for this problem, this unit could be an excellent processor unit, superior in fact to units costing far more. The display gives extremely useful information in a clear way. The multi function EQs and compressors are excellent.
Too bad Behringer did not put 50 cent heatsinks in the unit.

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The deq2496 is a highprecision digital 24-bit/ 96 khz eq/rta mastering processor, ideal for sophisticated live sound trouble-shooting or audiophile mastering. whether you\'re putting the finishing touches on recorded material or creating an optimal live sound for a multi-way pa, the deq2496 is built to provide meticulous control.alization? dynamics? feedback correction? yes, yes, yes. you can have it all with the deq2496. automatic fft analysis with auto eq? we added that too.the deq2496 is a whole rack of flexible equalization, dynamics and time correction functions designed to fix problems and generally optimize sound quality.naturally the deq2496 has phase-neutral digital graphic eq\'but in addition we\'ve added a function that allows you to change the bandwidth of each frequency from standard 1/3 to as much as 59/3. or, if you prefer the old-school approach to variable bandwidth, we\'ve included 10-band parametrics that can be fine-tuned in increments down to 1/60 of an octave.dynamic eq automatically raises or lowers a defined frequency range based on volume level. it\'s literally a combination of an equalizer (with frequency center and bandwidth controls) and a dynamics processor (with attack, release, threshold and ratio parameters). deq opens up a world of both creative mastering and pa problem solving possibilities. we\'ve given you total control with multiple filter types including bandpass mode. and of course you can store deq settings for recall at any time manually or via midi.you can delay either the deq2496\'s main or aux outputs anywhere from 0 to 300ms and can process left and right channels independently. not only can you specify time delay in feet or meters but simultaneously compensate for ambient temperature which affects sound speed!

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Guitar Link Interface to USB Cable and a 1/4-Inch / 3.5mm Adapter Review

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(More customer reviews)Guitar Link Interface to USB Cable and a 1/4 inch to 3.5 mm Adapter. I wanted to put my guitar into my more than adequate computer sound system. Play, playalong and just be able to hear and feel music while in my cave. Good price, handy and works well.

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Recording what you play on a guitar using your computer will normally need you to have an amplifier or mixer in between, in order to record at the desired quality and volume. But with the USB Guitar Link cable, you can simply turn your PC or Mac into a guitar amp and recoding system, so you can record what you play on your guitar without need of any other hardware.Features:*Plug in your favorite guitar and turn your PC or Mac computer into a guitar amp and recording system without the need for any other hardware*Stereo Headphone output lets you jam with your computer and can also be used for monitoring with active monitor speakers *Works directly with PC or Mac computer, Ultra-Low latency driver for PC included. *High-quality components and exceptionally rugged construction ensure long life *Variable-speed file playback function for MP3, WAV,AIFF audio files, perfect for easy learning and practicing *Easy Plug and Play Installation *USB bus powered--Requires no external powerGet a Bonus 3.5mm Female Mono / 1/4" Male Mono to Connect your headphones to the Link Cable.

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