Edirol launches new USB computer audio devices
updated 09:40 pm EDT, Sun July 11, 2004
Edirol USB audio devices
today announced new two new cross-platform computer audio devices, the UA-25 and PCR-M1, which are expected to be available later this year. The UA-25 ($300) is a compact audio interface for mobile computer-based audio recording; it is packaged in a durable metal casing, is bus-powered and transports both audio and MIDI signals--through a single USB connection. The new PCR-M1 ($320) is a MIDI-only version of the PCR-1 compact USB Keyboard controller--a 25-Key MIDI controller in a small and light form factor.
The UA-25 offers phantom power mic preamps on the TRS/XLR combo inputs for use with premium microphones; a Hi-Z switch to bring a guitar or bass in without the need for a direct box; Digital In to bring in DAT and Mini Disc, RCA, TRS Balanced, and Digital Output to send the signal to any audio destination. Adding quality to this flexibility, the UA-25 offers balanced +4 dBu inputs & outputs. In addition, the UA-25 includes a Direct Monitoring switch that allows the user to hear the recording in real time, as well as a "MONO" setting to hear phasing issues or monitor a single source through both the left and right headphone.
The UA-25 offers a unique "Limiter" function which adds mild compression to the analog inputs. According to the company, this "reduces the likelihood of clipping," augmenting its ability for remote recording "where a clean audio recording is a must and a second take is not an option." Edirol is offering stable, low-latency audio drivers for the UA-25, including direct support for ASIO2.0, WDM, Core Audio, and OS native drivers. It is $300 and expected to ship in the third quarter of 2004.
The PCR-M1, designed for traveling musicians, is a 25-Key MIDI controller that measures just over one inch thick and weighs less than three pounds. It offers full-sized keys with a shorter travel distance for a comfortable playable action, according the company. It has three different power options, including drawing power from the USB port, from 4 AAA batteries or from an optional AC adapter.
The PCR-M1 has a new rotary encoder that can be assigned to scroll program changes, scroll saved control maps, adjust velocity sensitivity, change MIDI channel, or adjust tempo, allowing users to change settings without entering the Edit menu for even more rapid recall and adjustment. It also features the ability to assign absolutely any MIDI message to any of the assignable physical controls, 16 memory locations to store different control maps, minimum and maximum value adjustments for each control, rapid changing of control maps, downloadable presets, an integrated 1x1 MIDI interface, a powerful software editor, and V-LINK support. It also offers separate pitch bend and modulation controls along with a number of assignable controls: 8 knobs, 6 buttons, 1 sustain pedal, and 1 expression pedal as well as a SHIFT button for a second message to be assigned. It is expected to ship in fourth quarter of 2004 for $310.
