Alesis outs pro-audio iO Dock for iPad
updated 02:05 am EDT, Tue June 28, 2011
Adds a slew of MIDI, XLR and 1/4-inch jacks
Electronic drum and audio equipment maker Alesis has introduced the iO Dock, a pro-audio docking solution for the iPad and iPad 2 that gives users an easy way to connect the iPad to MIDI controllers, PA systems, microphones, video projectors, instruments and more. The dock is intended as a universal iPad recording, playback and MIDI device that features XLR, 1/4-inch and MIDI jacks among other inputs and outputs.
The unit features a guitar-direct switch, allowing players to record right into amplifiers or effects apps, as well as an assignable 1/4-inch footswitch input. The iO Dock can be connected to a Mac or Windows computer using the USB MIDI port to remote-control software with faders, transport controls or other MIDI-compliant control apps, and the MIDI jacks can also be used to sequence keyboards, drum machines or samplers. The device also has two combination XLR and 1/4th-inch inputs, each with its own gain and phantom power.
The iO Dock features a pair of 1/4-inch outputs, and a headphone jack for monitoring -- each with independent volume controls and a direct-monitor switch. The unit also has a composite video out, allowing output to a video projector, television or monitor.
The Alesis iO Dock is now available from musicians' outlets and pro audio retailers, and sells for a street price of around $200.
