MOTU has introduced its latest device, the UltraLite-mk3 Hybrid audio interface. Musicians can choose from both FireWire and USB 2.0 connection options, while the hardware supports Mac and Windows platforms. The interface provides two mic/instrument inputs, six line-level analog inputs, ten channels of analog output, S/PDIF digital output and a headphone port.
Native Instruments on Wednesday released the Audio 2 DJ, the company's smallest USB audio interface geared for DJs. The device is designed for use with Traktor or other performance software. Two 1/4-inch outputs can be used to route stereo signals to an external mixer, or as a master output and headphone monitor when using a software mixer.
Cakewalk has introduced a variety of new USB audio interfaces; the UA-4FX, UA-25EX and UA-101. The UA-4FX is a portable 24-bit/96 KHz interface featuring Roland COSM preamp emulation and several built-in effects. The device integrates analog inputs and outputs, along with S/PDIF optical output with support for Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1 formats.
MOTU has unveiled the latest version of its mobile FireWire audio interface, the Traveler-mk3. The device now offers V-Limit signal overload protection, hi-Z guitar inputs, a 32-bit floating-point DSP and two banks of optical inputs and outputs. The traveler can be bus-powered directly from a notebook or desktop computer, or attached to an external battery pack if needed. The system allows all 28 inputs and 30 outputs to be used simultaneously.
MOTU says it is bringing digital mixing and signal processing to its high-end, cross-platform 896mk3 FireWire audio interface. Built for musicians and filmmakers, the interface features 8 XLR/TRS combo analog inputs, true hi-Z inputs for guitars, 192kHz audio sampling, and a variety of other abilities. The 896mk3 fits in two rack spaces, and provides a total of 28 inputs and 32 outputs through a digital mixer than produces effects without a computer.
Native Instruments on Wednesday introduced Guitar Rig Session, a new recording solution for guitarists, bass players and songwriters that provides studio-quality results at an entry-level price as well as announced Guitar Rig 3 XE, a new version of its entry-level software for computer-based guitar recording. Equipped with a specially designed audio interface and additional recording software, Guitar Rig Session is a versatile toolkit that can be used to create guitar-driven music of any style. The solution features the new Guitar Rig 3 XE software -- also available as a standalone solution -- which delivers a selection of five true-to-life tube amplifier models and 12 cabinet types, as well as 21 stomp boxes and effect units.
MOTU has unveiled the 828mk3, a cross-platform FireWire audio interface with on-board effects and mixing functionality. The 828mk3 features a 32-bit floating point DSP for digital mixing and effects processing, more I/O, 192kHz operation, and true hi-Z guitar inputs. The device also offers signal overload protection, digitally controlled analog input trims on all inputs, two banks of ADAT/TOSLink optical, and MIDI I/O. The 828mk3 will ship in February for $800.
Hardware and software maker M-Audio is preparing a new audio interface, the Fast Track Ultra. The unit is an 8x8 device with MIDI support, and connects to a Mac or PC via USB 2.0; six analog inputs and outputs are provided, along with a two-channel S/PDIF I/O. The Ultra can actually be used as a 16x8 device however, due in part to an eight-core DSP processor, which also minimizes latency and allows effects such as reverb. Four preamps boost the signal, and audio is streamed to a computer in 24 bits at 96kHz.
