OVERVIEW
Alesis' MultiMix series is a strong addition to the audio mixer market. This series integrates Alesis' low noise electronics (what they are known for), 100 digital effects, and rock solid construction all at a very competitive price. The MultiMix 12 Firewire is...
expand review first in the Firewire line to offer slider controls, and offers 12 channels and a Firewire in/out for interfacing with your computer.
USES
- mixing different sound inputs
- adding effects
- high quality Firewire audio interface
FEATURES
The first thing that must be highlighted is the design of this mixer. Alesis has always been known for their eye pleasing design, but here they've surpassed expectations by delivering rugged construction and an extremely compact, portable size.
In addition to the 12 channels and Firewire connectivity, the MultiMix 12 Firewire features (4) high-gain mic inputs with phantom power. There are balanced 1/4" inputs, 1/4" outputs, 1/4" monitor output, and headphone out. The Firewire port does not need any drivers and works as a fully functional Firewire audio interface with 24-bit, 44.1/48 kHz sampling and high-end A/D and D/A conversion using next-generation Dice II FireWire chip.
There are 100 easily accessible effects including reverbs, delays, chorus, flanging, and pitch. Each channel features a 3-band EQ. Steinberg Cubase LE (the limited version of Cubase) is also included.
OUR OPINION
The lines between high priced mixers and affordable mixers like the Multimix series are getting blurred. The Multimix series is built to be very rugged and portable, and offers some unbelievable features at this price range (Firewire connectivity and effects). The Firewire connectivity is especially crucial because once you utilize the excellent, clean sound of this mixer, you can transfer it digitally to your computer while keeping sound quality intact. This is a highly recommended mixer for your home studio. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
Alesis' MultiMix series is a strong addition to the audio mixer market. This series integrates Alesis' low noise electronics (what they are known for), 100 digital effects, and rock solid construction all at a very competitive price. The MultiMix 8 Firewire is...
expand review the first offering in the Firewire line and offers 8 channels and a Firewire in/out for interfacing with your computer.
USES
- mixing different sound inputs
- adding effects
- high quality Firewire audio interface
FEATURES
The first thing that must be highlighted is the design of this mixer. Alesis has always been known for their eye pleasing design, but here they've surpassed expectations by delivering rugged construction and an extremely compact, portable size.
In addition to the 8 channels and Firewire connectivity, the MultiMix 8 Firewire features (4) high-gain mic inputs with phantom power. There are balanced 1/4" inputs, 1/4" outputs, 1/4" monitor output, and headphone out. The Firewire port does not need any drivers and works as a fully functional Firewire audio interface with 24-bit, 44.1/48 kHz sampling and high-end A/D and D/A conversion using next-generation Dice II FireWire chip.
There are 100 easily accessible effects including reverbs, delays, chorus, flanging, and pitch. Each channel features a 3-band EQ. Steinberg Cubase LE (the limited version of Cubase) is also included.
OUR OPINION
The lines between high priced mixers and affordable mixers like the Multimix series are getting blurred. The Multimix series is built to be very rugged and portable, and offers some unbelievable features at this price range (Firewire connectivity and effects). The Firewire connectivity is especially crucial because once you utilize the excellent, clean sound of this mixer, you can transfer it digitally to your computer while keeping sound quality intact. This is a great mixer for portable or home usage.
OVERVIEW
Alesis' MultiMix series is a strong addition to the audio mixer market. This series integrates Alesis' low noise electronics (what they are known for), 100 digital effects, and rock solid construction all at a very competitive price. The MultiMix 8USB is the...
expand review middle model in the line and offers 8 channels and a USB in/out for interfacing with your computer.
USES
- mixing different sound inputs
- adding effects
- USB audio interface
FEATURES
The first thing that must be highlighted is the design of this mixer. Alesis has always been known for their eye pleasing design, but here they've surpassed expectations by delivering rugged construction and an extremely compact, portable size.
With the USB connection, comes two big bonus features. The Multimix USB8 doubles as both a input mixer and an audio interface, that's one less piece of hardware to buy. Record audio into this unit, directly into your computer. In addition Alesis has included an excellent production program in Cubase LE to get you started.
In addition to the 8 channels and USB connectivity, the MultiMix USB8 features (4) high-gain mic inputs with phantom power. There are balanced 1/4" inputs, 1/4" outputs, 1/4" monitor output, and headphone out.
There are 100 easily accessible effects including reverbs, delays, chorus, flanging, and pitch. Each channel features a 3-band EQ. Steinberg Cubase LE (the limited version of Cubase) is also included.
OUR OPINION
If you are not shopping for an expensive professional mixer like those made by Mackie, we highly recommend the Multimix USB8. It's very rugged and portable, and offers some unbelievable features at this price range (USB audio interface and effects). The USB connectivity is especially crucial because once you utilize the excellent, clean sound of this mixer, you can transfer it digitally to your computer while keeping sound quality intact. This is a great mixer for portable or home usage. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
The new MBox 2 is the updated version of the most popular Pro Tools solution. It includes both the newly designed MBox 2 interface and the industry standard Pro Tools LE production program.
NEW FEATURES IN VERSION 2
Improved Sound: Digidesign has improved the...
expand review already excellent sound of the original Mbox by replacing the high quality Focusrite mix preamps with new Digidesign preamps. Also Digidesign has also included new digital and analog converters with better fidelity.
New Interface Design: The Mbox 2 interface can be positioned horizontally or vertically for easy placement. Mbox 2 comes with two faceplates, which are easily swapped using the included hex wrench. One faceplate features a large handle that makes the unit easily portable. The second faceplate, which offers a rubberized grip, allows Mbox 2 to sit flat on a desktop and reduces the space required when the unit is packed for traveling.
More Simultaneous Inputs: 2 analog / 2 digital simultaneously.
New MIDI I/O: MBox 2 adds a very use MIDI input/output.
More Free Software: The Mbox already featured the most free plug-ins and software in its class. Version 2 adds the very powerful Pro Tools Ignition Pack (click the manufacturer's link below for full list of contents)
FEATURES
Mbox 2 is a full-featured, USB-powered studio-in-a-box that works with your Window XP or Mac OS X. With a distinctive hardware interface that delivers exceptional sound quality, Mbox 2 works in conjunction with your computer and the included Pro Tools LE software to provide the creative power you need to achieve professional results. Complementing the hardware interface's analog, digital, and MIDI I/O, Pro Tools LE software offers 32 tracks of simultaneous recording and playback, 128 virtual tracks, 256 MIDI tracks, and a host of additional features. As with all Pro Tools LE systems, Mbox 2 also ships with the Pro Tools Ignition Pack™ —an array of added composition and production tools to extend the power of your system.
OUR OPINION
The MBox Pro Tools solution is always the first Production suite we recommend. In the interface, you get a professional quality component with high quality inputs and mic pre-amp for top-level recording. With its new portable design, it's ideal for your home and mobile setup. As for the software, Pro Tools is simply the industry standard. The LE version offered here features everything you need to record, create, and finish a track; all within, the time-tested Pro Tools environment. If you need more options, Pro Tools has the most third party plug-ins and software enhancements available of all the production programs. And when you want to take your productions to the next level, your tracks will be compatible with any Pro Tools enable studio. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
The Edirol FA-66 is a smart, mid-priced Firewire/MIDI interface. And like its USB-cousin the UA-25, it will work as an ideal hub for your home/mobile studio. With some of the best technical specs of any interface in this price range and...
expand review the speed of a Firewire connection, the FA-66 is an obvious choice for those who wish to upgrade from an entry-level interface.
USES
- audio recording & playback
- MIDI recording & playback
- MIDI input & output
- vinyl to digital transfers
FEATURES
The most obvious features of the FA-66 are its compact size and the durable metal casing (which not only protects the unit from road wear, but also shields out audio interference). For those who demand high quality audio, the FA-66 offers premium level sound with powerful analog electronics, quality digital converters, and numerous inputs and outputs including balanced 1/4" outs. Edirol (and its parent company Roland) make products that are clearly built to higher standards than entry level competitors, and this particular model is an obvious choice in the midprice range for interfaces. Additional features include:
Two High Quality Mic Preamps: Includes a pair of high quality microphone preamps using premium analog components. It provides a clean recording environment to give a perfect microphone recording.
Built-in Analog Limiter: Reduce sudden overloaded sounds or popping noises in your recordings.
Wide Variety of I/O Ports: A pair of Neutrix XLR/TRS combo jacks with Phantom power, (4) 1/4" outputs, (2) RCA inputs, S/P DIF optical I/O ports and MIDI IN/OUT ports.
Zero Latency, Direct Monitoring: The FA-66 provides ultra low latency with maximum performance from popular music software, such as Sonar, Logic and Cubase. You can control Direct Monitoring from the front panel. Ideal for soft synths controlled from MIDI devices.
OUR OPINION:
If your sonic needs take you beyond the scope of entry-level interfaces and you want the power and convenience of Firewire, the Edirol FA-66 is the first model you should consider. Like its USB cousin the UA-25, the FA-66 and all its advanced home studio features (premium sound, mic pre-amp, balanced outs, limiter) and portable features (metal casing, Firewire powered), make it one of the most versatile interfaces we carry.
OVERVIEW
The Edirol UA-25 is the ideal mid-priced USB/ MIDI interface to serve as the hub for your home or mobile studio. The UA-25 will give you high-end features and performance in a moderately priced, compact package. The most obvious feature of the...
expand review UA-25 is the metal casing, a feature usually reserved for high-end components. In addition to impact protection, the aluminum casing will shield out audio interference. For those who demand high quality audio, the UA-25 offers premium quality sound with powerful analog electronics, quality digital converters, and numerous inputs and outputs including high quality balanced 1/4" outputs. Edirol products are comparably of higher quality than its competitors, and this particular model marks a clear choice in the mid price range for interfaces.
KEY FEATURES
Two High Quality Mic Preamps: Includes a pair of high quality microphone preamps using premium analog components. It provides a clean recording environment to give a perfect recording.
Built-in Analog Limiter: Reduce sudden overloaded sounds or popping noises in your recordings.
Wide Variety of I/O Ports: Wide range of input and output ports in a compact case. A pair of Neutrix XLR/TRS combo jacks with Phantom power, Hi-Z port for guitar direct connection, S/P DIF optical I/O ports and MIDI IN/OUT ports.
Zero Latency, Direct Monitoring: The UA-25 provides ultra low latency with maximum performance from popular music software, such as Sonar, Logic and Cubase. You can control Direct Monitoring from the front panel. Ideal for soft synths controlled from MIDI devices.
USB Bus Powered: No need for an AC adaptor. In combination with your laptop, you get a quality field recorder.
OUR OPINION
If you want to step up from entry level USB interfaces, the Edirol UA-25 should be one of the first you consider. With all its advanced home studio features (premium sound, mic pre-amp, balanced outs, limiter) and portable features (metal casing, USB powered), the UA is the most versatile interface we carry. Overall, there are few to no competitors in this price range with the features and sound quality of the UA-25. A strong buy.
The Fast Track Pro USB Interface gives you mobile recording flexibility with professional recording features. It features 2 front-panel mic/line inputs complete with phantom power for condenser microphones, inserts for outboard effects balanced and unbalanced analog outputs, S/PDIF digital I/O, MIDI I/O,...
expand review and more.
Fast Track Pro also features near-zero latency direct hardware monitoring and low-latency ASIO software monitoring, plus an A/B source switch and dual output pairs for DJ-style cueing. It is compatible with most popular PC and Mac music software including Pro Tools M-Powered. USB connection (or optional DC adaptor) make it a snap to set up. Compatible with both PC and Mac. -the mgmnt
OVERVIEW
FireWire 410 is a powerful audio/MIDI interface that features fast Firewire connection, flexibility, compact size and low price. FireWire 410's 4-in/10-out configuration complete with preamps is ideal for personal recording, studio quality monitoring, or routing discrete outputs to a mixer. The on-board...
expand review mixer and software control panel provide total routing flexibility—including monitoring with external effects. You also get ultra-low latency software monitoring and near-zero latency hardware direct monitoring; and two headphone outs with independent level controls let you collaborate with a partner. FireWire 410 can even be completely bus-powered for total mobile operation.
USES
- high fidelity recording and output
- plug-in recording with pre-amps
- excellent for laptop/mobile use
FEATURES
24-bit/96kHz analog to digital converters: The FireWire 410 uses the highest quality components for digital audio conversion, insuring high quality recording and analog to digital transfers.
24-bit/192kHz digital to analog converter: New high-end audio formats such as DVD-Audio are delivering output at a stunning 192kHz sampling rate. If you're ready to take your critical listening up a level, FireWire 410's ability to output 24-bit/192kHz fidelity in stereo is a giant step up. You also get high-resolution 96kHz audio from all outputs simultaneously.
2 analog audio input channels: Two independent analog input channels accept a wide variety of input signals. A front-panel switch for each channel selects between 1/4" TS (-10dBV) line-level input on the rear and Neutrik (1/4" TS and balanced XLR) mic/instrument input on the front. Connect microphones, guitars, keyboards, samplers, CD players and more. The driver software allows you to route these internally to any analog or digital outputs.
8 analog audio outputs: The combination of eight 1/4" TS outputs and software-controlled routing and mixing yield a tremendous amount of flexibility. This design is equally suited for routing individual signals to separate channels on an external mixer or directly driving the components of a surround sound system. Any output pair can also produce high-definition 24-bit/192kHz signals for amazing sonic clarity.
Digital I/O: Two channels of S/PDIF in and out allow pristine transfers with other digital devices such as CD players, DATs and MiniDisc systems. The software control panel selects between rear-panel coaxial and TOSlink optical inputs, as well as which signals are routed simultaneously to both digital outs. Accompanying LEDs indicate valid data for both input and output. S/PDIF sample rates can either sync to external sources or operate at 44.1kHz, 48kHz or 96kHz.
Dual high-performance preamps: Each of the two input channels incorporates award-winning M-Audio microphone/instrument preamp technology—complete with +48-volt phantom power for condenser mics. They offer up to 48dB of gain for instruments like guitar and bass—and an amazing 66dB of gain for microphones. 20dB pads, as well as signal and clip LEDs on each channel also aid in adjusting proper input signal levels. These preamps simply sound great no matter what you connect to them. FireWire bus-powered operation means that you can record anywhere your laptop goes.
MIDI I/O: In addition to audio, FireWire 410 also features a built-in 1 x 1 MIDI interface. A bypass switch also allows throughput from MIDI In to MIDI Out , allowing you to maintain gear connections even while the computer is off or busy with non-musical tasks. The included drivers are compatible with most popular MIDI software for both Mac and Windows.
Dual headphone outputs: The combination of two 1/4" TSR headphone outputs allow you to easily compose, record and mix with a partner. The software control panel allows assignment of one or more sources to the headphones—perfect for producing in surround. Independent volume controls assure maximum flexibility and listening comfort.
OUR OPINION
The Firewire 410 was one of the first affordable and portable Firewire interfaces on the market. Coupled with its excellent features set and extreme flexibility, the Firewire 410 has become a mainstay for many home and portable studios. If you are a beginner or intermediate producer, don't let all the technical features scare you away, this is an excellent piece that you can grow into. For advanced producer, you'll like all the flexibility the Firewire 410 offers, an invaluable feature for the mobile producer. -the mgmnt
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