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.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Edirol FA-66 6 x 6 FireWire Audio Interface

6 x 6 FireWire Audio Interface

Get 37% OFF

Click here for more information about Edirol FA-66 6 x 6 FireWire Audio Interface

Read More...

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

Average Reviews:

(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!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Focusrite Saffire LE 6 In/8 Out Version 2 Firewire Audio Interface

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!

Click here for more information about Focusrite Saffire LE 6 In/8 Out Version 2 Firewire Audio Interface

Read More...

Behringer MS16 Powered Studio Desktop Monitors Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)SUBJECTIVE REVIEW: Behringer MS16 2-Way Active Personal Monitor System
Pros:
- Accuracy, soundstage & imaging!!
- Connectivity & Front Panel Controls (Right CH Speaker):
.... INPUT 1 (1/8" TRS) Connector
.... INPUT 2 (RCA Right & Left) Connectors
.... ADJUSTABLE 1/4" TRS Microphone Input - mixable w/stereo inputs for playback and vocal monitoring applications
.... 1/8" TRS HEADPHONE Connector w/auto-mute loudspeaker function.
.... FRONT PANEL Controls (Bass, Treble & Level)
Cons:
None except deep bass - which can be resolved by adding a powered-sub like I did!!! ;-)
NOTE: All subjective comments based on:
1) SPEAKER LOCATIONS:
.... a) Free-standing near-field monitor location, 4' apart, slightly tilted-in (closes walls 10') - Music by my Polaroid 30 GB MP3 player (NO powered-sub )
.... b) Keyboard: L & R location installation, slightly tilted-in (with & without Altec Lansing FX2021 powered-sub**)
**NOTE: Adding a powered-sub relieves the Behringer MS16 4" woofer speakers of reproducing the lower frequencies thus lowering the possibility of distortion or breakup when played louder, - 85 dBc to 90 dBc Fast SPL Peaks!
2) Critical listening SPL = approx. 85 dBc to 90 dBc Fast SPL Peaks measured @ 8' to 10' away from the speakers.
.... a) Radio Shack SPL Analog Meter: Dial = 80 or 90 / Weight = C / Speed = Fast
ACCURACY:
One of the Behringer MS16 hallmarks is the accuracy in reproducing encoded musical sounds from my MP3s, ... like, a violin sounds like a violin, a trumpet sounds like a trumpet, a tenor sax sounds like a tenor sax, a Grand Piano, like the Grand Piano that Diana Krall uses in her "Live in Paris" CD (I use to own a 6' Yamaha Grand in my HT/family room), etc. What is unusual for this price range, is the MS16 ability to reveal subtleties and the resolution of the high frequency characteristics within the encoded music/instruments, . . . they are just more evident with the Behringer MS16 vs. other speakers in this price and some costing more; i.e. with close mike recording of an acoustic guitar, you can hear the artist fingers (George Benson; Earl Klugh; Russ Freeman) sliding up and down the frets; you can tell that that two violins are playing a melodic line, rather than just one violin; the air harmonics off the crash or ride cymbal sounds, just like our Tama Rock Set w/Zildjian cymbals; Diana Krall breathing during some of her songs Intro ("Live in Paris" Music CD). Here - I do chalk up the sound quality to Behringer MS16 1.5" (38mm) Diameter High-Resolution Tweeter., which is a nice size for a small personal Studio near-field Monitors.
SOUNDSTAGE:
The left to right placements of instruments & voices are excellent, providing a precise, very wide, beyond the speakers soundstage. The Behringer MS16 front to back (depth) soundstage is also excellent, as well as the dynamic's resolution (soft vs. loud) in playing back the encoded instrument sounds which helps provide excellent location placement of the instruments. Though the front to back soundstage can be a result of how close the microphones were to the instruments, no doubt, the quality of the best recordings, will be revealed by this speaker and the opposite is also true, poor recordings will be revealed as poor. The Behringer MS16 plays back all my Jazz CD Music with relative smoothness, with no surprising in-between the eyes, unnatural frequency peaks because of it's super flat & wide Pro Monitor like frequency characteristics. I also own the JBL N24 w/4" woofers (JBL NSP1 PKG) which was raved by Brent Butterworth for its super midrange playback (voices) and in direct comparison, the Behringer MS16 is equal to task providing the same balanced, natural, clear unstrained playback! (Samples: "Francis Albert Sinatra & Antonio Carlos Jobim" 1967 Digital remastered DDD Music CD; Diana Krall "Love Scenes" & "The Look of Love" Music CD; Bob James "Fourplay" Music CD; David Benoit "Fuzzy Logic" Music CD [Album Of The Year - 2003 National Smooth Jazz Awards], etc.).
IMAGING:
Another characteristic that the Behringer MS16 displays is its ability to image the specific instruments across the soundstage, with a floating in front, side, quality sound presence comparable to some JBL PRO Studio Monitors, though its point source is more precise due to the smaller cabinet side. The Behringer MS16 low-diffraction front cabinet geometry feature curved cabinet edges to eliminate diffraction, which ensures precise imaging and localization. I love the Behringer MS16 ambience reproduction in my room, because it gave me the feeling that "you are there" and if the recording is from a live concert, the ambience provided the right amount of reflections to make you think your listening to the performance outdoors, or in the symphony hall. ("The Corrs - Live at the Royal Albert Hall" Music CD; Diana Krall "Live in Paris" Music CD).
BASS FREQUECY:
WITHOUT POWERED-SUB: (Bass adjusted slightly less than MAX @ the 5 o'clock position / Treble left flat)
The Behringer MS16 bass is rated down to 80 Hz, and after adjusting the Bass Control to near MAX (5 o'clock position), ... it easily matches my JBL 24s (Benchmarked down to 89 Hz -2.7 dB - Fronts location by Tom Nousaine for Sound & Vision Magazine) lowest rated frequency reproduction in my familiar jazz music (David Benoit, Bob James, Joe Sample, Diana Krall, etc.) MP3 encoded music is not as demanding as a keyboard or CD (pure digital recordings), so what I hear was more than acceptable @ 85 dBc Fast SPL Peaks! (louder than normal listening). The deep bass is lacking of course, which is expected for a 4" DIA woofer, but it wasn't MIA and actually sounded better than most free-standing speakers w/4" or 5" woofers. The upright bass (Diana Krall) and electric bass lines (Bob James "Fourplay" w/Nathan East on bass) reproduction was way above average and overall, ... it nicely filled my 20 x 30' room with well balanced, clean & smooth frequency jazz music.
WITH POWERED-SUB - YAMAHA PORTABLE GRAND KEYBOARD:
Reproducing a digital keyboard is demanding so to get that floor & air feeling bass SPL without distortion or breakup, I coupled the Behringer MS16 Speakers w/the Altec Lansing FX1021 2.1 Speaker System, or more specifically, Altec Lansing FX4021 Powered Subwoofer (w/Two 5.25" long-throw woofers in isobaric configuration). This unit is rated down to 32 Hz and takes care of the lower frequency duties. Matching the Altec Powered-sub to the MS16s took about 20 mins. using the Keyboard built-in MIDI DEMO files and by playing it personally! I'm finally happy with what I hear from my Yamaha DGX-505 88-key Portable Grand.
THE BOTTOM LINE:
If you want "budget" monitors that provides excellent imaging, revealing resolution, super flat & wide Pro Monitor like frequency characteristics, the Behringer MS16 is for you! At no time during my critical listening phase (w/85 dBc - 90 dBc Fast SPL Peaks) did I hear any distortion or breakup (with or without powered-sub) from my Behringer MS16 speakers!!!
- Although the following is an OPTION & NOT REQUIRED to ENJOY these powered speakers, you can add a powered-sub to round out the lower frequency foundation and once you balance the SPL between the powered-sub & MS16s, ... you've got a very nice killer setup for MP3, PC, Laptop, Keyboard & near-field Home Studio application @ a very reasonable price!
In my case, I'm guessing, that the Behringer & Altec powered-sub combination for my Yamaha Portable Grand Keyboard frequency response is approx. 40Hz - 18kHz ±5 dB in my 17' x 13' living room (see my attached Amazon photo's) and for the price, ... it just sounds GLORIOUS @ 85 dBc - 90 dBc Fast SPL Peaks!!!
Highly Recommended!!! (Another way to think about it is, ... you can't build a 16 Watt [2x 8 Watts] self-powered speakers like this for under $60 a pair!!!)
Background: Audiophile since 1980; retired Audio/Video dealer; retired semi-pro musician (piano, keyboard, acoustic / electric guitar, bass guitar & drums).

Click Here to see more reviews about: Behringer MS16 Powered Studio Desktop Monitors

The Behringer MS16 Speakers are a compact 2-way stereo speaker setup for home studio or multimedia applications! Two high-power amplifiers drive the 4-inch woofers and the high-resolution tweeters. The front-mounted volume control and individual bass and treble controls make accurate sound adjustments a breeze. Two stereo line inputs (RCA and eighth-inch TRS) allow simultaneous use of two stereo sources, so you can play back CDs, MDs or MP3s and use an electric guitar/keyboard at the same time. In addition, the quarter-inch TRS microphone input lets you mix vocals with a stereo track. Behringer MS16 Features Compact stereo speaker system for home studios or multimedia applications 4 inch woofer and high-resolution tweeter powered by two 8-watt amplifiers Dedicated volume, bass and treble controls for more flexibility Stereo RCA inputs for sound cards, keyboards... etc Connect a CD or MP3 player through 1/8 inch TRS stereo input Separately adjustable 1/4 inch TRS mic input for vocal monitoring 1/8 inch TRS headphone connector with auto-mute loudspeaker function Magnetically shielded for placement near computer monitors Magnetic shielding and compact size make these speakers perfect for placement near video monitors or computer displays. AmericanMusical.com is an authorized dealer of Behringer products.

Get 50% OFF

Click here for more information about Behringer MS16 Powered Studio Desktop Monitors

Read More...

Line 6 Toneport UX8 Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)As a loyal Line6 user, I knew the UX8 wouldn't let me down. I recently upgraded from the Toneport UX2 to the UX8, mostly because I needed more inputs to record my band (I used UX8 with Pro Tools). No surprise, Line6 totally nailed it. They know what recording guitarists need. This thing has a lot more to offer than just tons of inputs and great preamps. It has SPDIF, phantom power, footswitch and exp pedal jacks (wah-wah etc), plus Gearbox modeling software and Gearbox plug-in with hundreds of totally usable tones. I recorded all my guitar tracks dry while monitoring a processed tone. while mixing, I took my time and found the best tones. very pleased. And no latency!
IMO, for the price UX8 can't be beat. You are getting a ton of great features in a well-designed complete pro rack unit.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Line 6 Toneport UX8

The Line 6 Toneport UX8 USB PC Recording Interface has an 8-channel USB2 Audio Interface for both Mac and PC. Professional producers, engineers, and musicians turn to Line 6 because they know that great mixes start with great recordings and great recordings come through TonePort. Install the free GearBox software from Line6.com and control an entire arsenal of guitar, bass and mic tones. No more worries about room dynamics or wasted hours setting up equipment, TonePort makes it easy to plug in and start recording your next hit song. TonePort UX8 is the only USB audio interface that delivers the powerful tone-shaping mojo of Line 6's acclaimed GearBox software-the same tone engine used by POD -with recording inputs and outputs for eight simultaneous channels of studio-quality 24-bit/96 kHz audio. The sturdy and stylish rack-mountable design provides the discerning producer with eight (8) XLR inputs with high quality dedicated mic pres, eight (8) 1/4-inch line inputs, two (2) 1/4-inch front panel instrument jacks, eight (8) 1/4-inch balanced line output jacks and two (2) stereo headphone jacks, as well as stereo RCA S/PDIF input and output. Of course, Line 6 is all about tone, and TonePort UX8 delivers a massive collection of models, including 18 guitar amps and 24 cabinets, 5 bass amps and 5 bass cabs, 6 mic preamps and 30 stompbox and studio effects for guitar, bass and vocals. For the ultimate in recording, mixing and mastering flexibility, TonePort UX8 includes GearBox modeling software as well as the GearBox Plug-In in VST, AU and RTAS (Pro Tools) format. Plug in to any TonePort and record your tunes with the tone you crave using any of your favorite recording application, including GarageBand, Logic, Cakewalk/Sonar, Ableton Live, and many, many more. GearBox

Get 29% OFF

Click here for more information about Line 6 Toneport UX8

Read More...

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

Click Here to see more reviews about: Tascam US-1800 USB2.0 Audio/Midi Interface

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!

Get 25% OFF

Click here for more information about Tascam US-1800 USB2.0 Audio/Midi Interface

Read More...

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.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Mackie Onyx 32 Mixer (4 Bus, 28 Onyx Preamps and 2 Stereo Channels)

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

Get 30% OFF

Click here for more information about Mackie Onyx 32 Mixer (4 Bus, 28 Onyx Preamps and 2 Stereo Channels)

Read More...

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.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Phonic Portable FireWire Unit FIREFLY-302

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.

Get 57% OFF

Click here for more information about Phonic Portable FireWire Unit FIREFLY-302

Read More...

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.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Focusrite Saffire Pro 40 Professional 20 In / 20 Out Firewire Audio Interface with Eight Focusrite Pre-amps

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...

Get 33% OFF

Click here for more information about Focusrite Saffire Pro 40 Professional 20 In / 20 Out Firewire Audio Interface with Eight Focusrite Pre-amps

Read More...

M-Audio Fast Track Ultra 8R Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Both this and the Presonus FireStudio are quite awesome audio interfaces. Never heard a pop and static is phenomenally low. It is built like a TANK and I'm sure it could withstand a beating. Preamps work great. The only downside, and I mean the only bad thing about this interface is that MIDI requires a breakout cable. Not a big deal but it's just something you could lose easily. I definitely recommend getting this. It really is great.

Click Here to see more reviews about: M-Audio Fast Track Ultra 8R

Designed for comprehensive studio work, the Fast Track Ultra 8R audio/MIDI interface delivers 8 x 8 I/O, high-speed USB 2.0 connectivity, MX Core DSP mixing/effects and eight preamps with award-winning Octane technology. Top Features -high-speed USB 2.0 interface -24-bit/96kHz professional audio on all I/O simultaneously -MX CoreTM DSP technology -flexible channel routing, monitor sub-mixing, and effects processing -8 preamps with award-winning M-Audio OctaneTM technology -premium input circuitry for recording an entire band -compatible with Mac and PC -works with most audio production software Record drum kits and full bands on all eight inputs simultaneously-with superior 24-bit/96kHz fidelity. The on-board MX Core DSP mixer processes eight hardware inputs and eight software returns to the eight hardware outputs, expanding the total I/O to an impressive 16 x 8 configuration and delivering flexible routing and monitoring with delay and reverb. With reliable, low-latency M-Audio drivers and compatibility with most major recording software, the Fast Track Ultra 8R puts the core of your powerful project studio in a single rack-mount unit. High-speed USB 2.0 Technology The next generation of recording interfaces has arrived. Fast Track® Ultra 8R utilizes high-speed USB 2.0 technology to deliver the bandwidth for 24-bit/96kHz audio resolution throughout the recording and monitoring process. With a maximum data transfer speed of 480Mbps, this jump in performance allows you to enjoy outstanding sound quality on all inputs and outputs simultaneously. Speed Comparisons in Mbps Connection Maximum Speed USB 1.1 12Mbps USB 2.0 480Mbps FireWire 400 400Mbps Built-in Effects Processing Tired of tracking vocals and instruments dry becaus

Get 33% OFF

Click here for more information about M-Audio Fast Track Ultra 8R

Read More...

M-Audio ProFire 2626 High-Definition 26-in/26-out FireWire Audio Interface with Octane Preamp Technology Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)A few months ago, i decided to update my MOTU 828 mkii firewire interface with something that has better DAC converters, so i did some research and i decided to purchase the M-Audio Profire 2626.
When i plugged this unit in my studio and listened to it, i was taken by the clarity of the DACs, i also did some testing of the preamp mics, and they are clean sounding and uncolored.
So, I thought i had a great deal.. a 192/24 firewire 8x8 interface for around $500. Unfortunately, as i started using the unit more and more in my studio, i realized the many problems m-audio has been infamous for: bad drivers and unreliable software.
1-The biggest problem with the unit is that the latest ASIO M-Audio 2626 Windows XP drivers will blue screen some XP workstations when changing the audio resolution from 96k back to 48k or 44k in a DAW or some other program that uses the unit's driver. There is a thread in the M-Audio's forum about this, and quite a few people are experiencing this problem. As of January 10th 2010, the problem is still unresolved.
The funniest and saddest thing of all, is that when i use the free ASIO4ALL drivers with the Profire-2626, they do not crash Windows when switching audio resolutions. This should tell you how bad M-Audio drivers are.
2-The marketing literature for the M-Audio is basically incorrect and will lead you to believe the digital mixer offers true mixing flexibility (like MOTU's CueMix software) of all inputs and outputs.. which is FALSE. You can use the digital mixer's faders to control the analog inputs coming into the unit, ONLY if the inputs are connected to the preamps via XLR plugs.. if you use TRS 1/4" jacks to connect to inputs 3-8, the signal bypasses the mic preamps and cannot be controlled in the digital mixer. How stupid is that?
I had to go out and order 1/4" to XLR adapters to connect some of my synths to be able to control their input in the digital mixer
My older MOTU 828 mkii unit never had this inconvenience...
3-Want to use the 2626 inputs and outputs to send digital signals from your DAW to an analog box and back into your DAW?
Good Luck.. it took me a while to figure out how to do it (nevermind i used to do this in the MOTU 828 mkii all the time) and then i wasn't able to monitor the return signals without listening to the return signal mixed with the send signal!
Yep.. you can't monitor return signals without going through the mixer unless you are using the XLR inputs.. because if you use the TRS inputs you cannot control or mute the signal!!
2010-02 UPDATE
4-About 10 months ago, a user in the m-audio forums discovered that the Profire 610 and the Profire 2626 are not sample accurate when recording. What does this mean? it means if you want to record a band playing together, the tracks are going to be out of sync with each other, and you will need to synchronize them by hand in your DAW.
M-Audio confirmed this was a problem with their drivers, but after 10 months of waiting a fix hasn't been released yet.
All this problems with M-audio's unreliable and poorly written software have lead me to eventually replace this unit with something that offers better software and hardware quality, like the RME fireface 800.. the thing stopping me is the price.. the RME Fireface goes for about twice the price of the Profire 2626.. and for a good reason.
The experience with the profire 2626 has taught me a lesson: Don't buy another M-Audio product ever again.
But, don't just take my word for it.. point your browser to M-audio's profire forums and you will see all the problems users are having with this unit..


Click Here to see more reviews about: M-Audio ProFire 2626 High-Definition 26-in/26-out FireWire Audio Interface with Octane Preamp Technology

Building on a legacy of award-winning FireWire audio interfaces, the M-Audio ProFire¿ 2626 brings next-generation performance to your PC or Mac host-based recording system. This powerful interface delivers 26 x 26 simultaneous I/O, complete with an onboard DSP mixer sourced from up to 52 audio streams. It features every kind of connection you need¿including award-winning Octane¿ preamp technology on all eight analog inputs, ADAT, S/PDIF, word clock and MIDI. Critically acclaimed JetPLL jitter elimination technology ensures pristine audio quality and reliable synchronization all the way up to high-definition 24-bit/192kHz resolution. In addition, ProFire 2626 offers easy FireWire connectivity, extremely low latency, dual headphone outputs, front-panel ¿¿ instrument inputs and standalone operation. ProFire 2626 is compatible with most major audio software, including Pro Tools M-Powered¿.* * Compatible with Pro Tools M-Powered 7.4 with downloadable update. Please visit m-audio.com for update availability. 96kHz and 18 x 18 I/O maximum with Pro Tools M-Powered.

Click here for more information about M-Audio ProFire 2626 High-Definition 26-in/26-out FireWire Audio Interface with Octane Preamp Technology

Read More...

Tascam Track Pack T1 US122L Soundcard with Micrphone Pack Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I'm using this with a relatively new MacBook and GarageBand. And it sorta works. The updated driver still leaves the Mic VERY quiet and the guitar input not much better. The input dials need to be turned all the way up to get any input. Maybe a 64-bit drive would help, but now Tascam has discontinued this model, so I'm not holding my breath.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Tascam Track Pack T1 US122L Soundcard with Micrphone Pack

Turn your Mac or PC into a complete recording system for music, podcasting or production with Tascam's Track Pack T1 package, which includes the US-122L sound card, MC-VT1 dynamic microphone, HP-VT1 headphones, and Cubase LE4 software--everything you need to produce hit music on your computer.
The US-122L is your computer's gateway into the audio world. More than just a soundcard, it has a pair of pro-quality microphone preamps for connecting any type of microphone. The phantom power switch supplies power for condenser microphones. The US-122L also has a line input for recording powered devices like keyboards, drum machines and guitar amp modelers. You can even plug your guitar or bass directly into the US-122L. With two inputs, you can record two microphones or sources at once, monitoring with the included HP-VT1 headphones. The included MC-VT1 dynamic microphone is ideal for recording instruments like electric guitar, drum kits and rock vocals.
The Track Pack T1 also comes with Cubase LE4 software, which provides 48 tracks of recording and playback with a Tascam interface and a Mac OS X or Windows XP computer. You can edit your tracks to fix timing and mistakes to put together a perfect take. Cubase LE4 has a professional-quality mixer built in with plug-in effects like reverbs, compressors, distortion, auto-pan and more. You can add more VST plug-ins later and there are more free and commercial VST plug-ins than any other format.
US-122L Features
High-quality stereo audio interface
TASCAM XLR mic pres with power for condenser mics
Works with audio application software for Mac OS X, Windows XP or Vista

MC-VT1 Features
Dynamic handheld vocal microphone
Professional XLR output for lower noise performance
Built-in pop filter reduces vocal plosives

HP-VT1 Features
Closed-ear headphones for isolation while recording
Includes 1/4-inch stereo headphone adapter plug
Padded headset with rich bass response

Steinberg Cubase LE Features These are just a few of the features of Steinberg Cubase LE:
48 audio tracks: More than many "pro" applications, enough for large arrangements and multiple takes
64 MIDI tracks: Record layers of MIDI synths, or incorporate ReWire samplers like GigaStudio 3 LE
96kHz/24-bit audio resolution: Audiophile recording quality captures every detail and nuance
VST plug-in effects: Thousands of effects to choose from, from free downloads to pro packages, with the most widely-supported plug-in format
VST instrument support: Incorporate VST soft synths into your Cubase arrangements
Notation editing and printing: MIDI tracks show up as completed notation for printing charts for musicians and editing tracks
Time Stretch: Change the tempo of a loop to match your song
ReWire 2 integration: Run ReWire-compatible applications like GigaStudio 3 on the same computer as Cubase LE
Upgrade path to Cubase SX: Upgrade to the full version of Cubase if you outgrow this version
Extensive support for mixing control surfaces: Use a US-224, US-428, FW-1884 or FW-1082 to control the program
To upgrade from Cubase LE to a more powerful version like Cubase SX3, visit steinbergupgrades.com.

Click here for more information about Tascam Track Pack T1 US122L Soundcard with Micrphone Pack

Read More...

Edirol UA-25 EX USB Audio MIDI Interface (UA-25EX) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This product is compatible with Windows 7 64-bit. Seems to be working fine for me. You do need to download the Windows 7 drivers from the Roland website (they are not included on the packaged CD) but it works great. I haven't put it through all its paces yet, but the setup was a breeze, the sound is crystal clear in both recording and playback, and I'm not getting any pops or dropouts.
I got this to replace my old Tascam US-122 because they weren't staying current with drivers and it was wonky under Vista and totally unusable under Windows 7, so Windows 7 compatibility was really important for me.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Edirol UA-25 EX USB Audio MIDI Interface (UA-25EX)

Rugged, compact, and feature-filled, the new UA-25EX is a portable-interface powerhouse. Ideal for computer-based audio engineers who appreciate mobility, this 24bit/96kHz USB audio interface is equipped with pro-grade microphone preamps, a newly-developed analog compressor/limiter, and ground-lift functionality for studio and stage

Get 33% OFF

Click here for more information about Edirol UA-25 EX USB Audio MIDI Interface (UA-25EX)

Read More...

Allen & Heath AH-ZED-24 24-Channel Mixer with USB Interface Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)An incredible mixer. No drivers needed for the computer. Easy to use. Great for home studio.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Allen & Heath AH-ZED-24 24-Channel Mixer with USB Interface

The ZED-24 is a small format, USB-equipped stereo mixer for live and recording. The ZED-24 has a fantastic pedigree which comes from nearly 40 years of making mixing desks for the professional sound community. The audio circuitry is based on years of continual development and refinement and the performance of all the elements within the mixer is has been perfected to ensure the very best sound quality possible. This is a mixer for anyone, from entry-level to professionals, who appreciates fantastic sound, rugged build quality and imaginative feature sets. It\'ll be equally happy running your gig on stage, recording live or mixing down in your studio at home.The feature-set of the ZED-24 mixer is incredibly advanced for a mixer at this level – it has 23 independent sources to the mix, 10 independent outputs, 4 aux sends, a USB send & return for PC or Mac recording, playback and effects, a unique dual stereo input capability and some very advanced monitoring facilities. In fact, ZED-24 is so packed full of great features that you\'d think it would cost much, much more! It can be used for many different tasks, whether in live performance, utilizing plug-in effects via USB, live recording via USB and Cakewalk, studio recording or mixing down to produce your own 2-track recordings.

Get 13% OFF

Click here for more information about Allen & Heath AH-ZED-24 24-Channel Mixer with USB Interface

Read More...

PreSonus StudioLive 16.4.2 16-Channel Digital Mixer w/ FireWire I/O Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought the StudioLive about a month ago and have been playing with it since then in preparation for winter concert season. The first thing I did was connect a mic to every input and test the gain, routing, and outputs for every channel. Everything worked flawlessly, sounded great, and was easy to do.
Sound Quality
The sound quality on this is amazing. I've been working with Mackie mixers and the low-end A&H one, and the sound is cleaner (absolutely no audible noise even at very high gain). Some people might be worried that the digital EQ would be harsh, but believe me, this sounds just as "analog" as the analog boards I use, and it's actually more precise and more flexible. The quality of the compressor is also great. I've previously only used kind of low-end compressors, and this blows them out of the water. The tone is not colored at all, and I don't hear any weird digital artifacts. I've also pushed the compressor up to limiting, and it's a very smooth sound, not harsh and fuzzy like most digital limiters I've used.
Ease of Use
I love the simplicity and power of the FAT channel. It's great to be able to set up one channel, copy it to all the others, and tweak from there. Routing is also a piece of cake, and the FX interface is intuitive. Overall I think this is very well designed for use in live situations where adjustments have to be immediate.
Features
This is the only board anywhere near this price range that does everything I want - great, clean preamps and mixing; flexible, powerful, sweet-sounding EQ; excellent dynamics processing on every channel (and even the buses!); crystal-clear A/D for recording, with built-in firewire; recording pre or post FAT channel; analog direct outs on every channel right after the preamp; built-in effects that actually sound good.
I think it would be hard to find a live mixer with better sound than this for anywhere near this price. You might be able to find slightly better compression and FX on outboard gear, but it would cost at least $100/channel, and be a pain to patch together in live settings. Not only that, but patch bays and cables add noise that this mixer doesn't have. Plus, this takes no setup time (turn it on, recall settings, go) and is a lot easier to transport (even though the SKB case for this thing is HUGE!). So really I think this is a huge win.
I'm replacing a 16ch mixer, two 8U racks of outboard gear, 2 insert snakes and 2 patch snakes, and an A/D computer interface (E-MU 1616M) with this one piece of equipment that sounds better, cost less in total, and is 100x easier to setup and use. To me, that says 5 stars any day.

Click Here to see more reviews about: PreSonus StudioLive 16.4.2 16-Channel Digital Mixer w/ FireWire I/O

StudioLive is the most powerful and flexible sixteen-channel digital mixer the world has seen. Loaded with sixteen high headroom Class-A XMAX microphone preamplifiers, built-in 28x18 FireWire recording and playback engine, \'Fat-Channel" processing with 4-band EQ\'s, compressors, limiters and gates, DSP effects, six aux buses, four sub-groups, extensive LED metering, mixer save and recall, channel-strip save/recall/copy/paste, talkback and more, breaking new boundaries for music performance and production

Click here for more information about PreSonus StudioLive 16.4.2 16-Channel Digital Mixer w/ FireWire I/O

Read More...

M-Audio Nova Affordable Large Capsule Cardioid Microphone Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have been recording and engineering for more than 30 years. I own quite a number of excellent microphones ranging from AKG, Rode, Audio Technica and more. I was helping a friend mix a song he recorded on his digital work station and told him how impressed I was by the sound of his vocal tracks. He pulled out the M-Audio Nova and said that was the microphone he had used on all of the vocals. When he told me it was around $100.00 new I had to have one. I have microphones that cost 5 to 6 times more than this mic but honestly this mic ranks right up there with them. Don't think the cheap mic comes with a cheap sound, it is an excellent vocal or acoustic instrument microphone. (Remember it is a condenser and needs to be powered by your mixer, recorder or pre amp)

Click Here to see more reviews about: M-Audio Nova Affordable Large Capsule Cardioid Microphone

Using manufacturing breakthroughs pioneered by M-Audios popular Luna and Solaris, the new Nova cardioid redefines the entry-level price point for quality studio condenser microphones. The 1.1 evaporated gold diaphragm mounted in a solid brass capsule ensures recordings that are faithful to the source, and the Class A solid state electronics are engineered for low noise, distortion and coloration. You will be amazed at how much microphone Nova gives you for the money.

Get 31% OFF

Click here for more information about M-Audio Nova Affordable Large Capsule Cardioid Microphone

Read More...

Tascam US-800 8 Input USB 2.0 Computer Audio Interface Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)the drivers for this product are just barely compatible with windows 7. the first time i installed the software, i could not record via USB. upon reinstallation, it worked through audacity but would occasionally spike noise while i was recording


Click Here to see more reviews about: Tascam US-800 8 Input USB 2.0 Computer Audio Interface

The lightweight US-800 from TASCAM adds great-sounding multichannel recording to your laptop, with eight inputs and four outputs for capturing dynamic soundscapes and performances. Six XLR microphone inputs each have phantom power for attaching your finest condenser microphones, and premium 192kHz/24-bit audio converters record every detail. The US-800 includes 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 here for more information about Tascam US-800 8 Input USB 2.0 Computer Audio Interface

Read More...

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.

Click Here to see more reviews about: MAudio GuitarBox

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.

Get 30% OFF

Click here for more information about MAudio GuitarBox

Read More...