Focusrite OctoPre Mk II

Focusrite OctoPre Mk II Review

Focusrite OctoPre Mk II Feature

• Eight High Quality Award-winning Focusrite Pre-amps
• Built-in eight channel 24-bit / 96 kHz digital output
• Two quality Hi-Z instrument inputs
• 5 LED input metering on every channel w/10dB Pads on every channel
• Includes USB Cable & Kensington Lock

Plug a PreSonus Octopre MkII into your interface and instantly add eight awesomely clean and clear pres to your rig. Now, you can record the whole band at once, with primo sound quality. If you use different types of mics, you know how important it is to have plenty of gain at hand. That's exactly what you get from the Octopre MkII. Condensers, dynamics, even ribbons work with this baby. You want flexibility? If your rig travels, or if you just want maximum versatility in your studio, then the Octopre MkII has the I/O you need for just about any setup. In addition to its ADAT output, you get eight analog outputs and word clock I/O. And, all the inputs and outputs are on the rear panel, so you keep your setup nice and clean. If you want to sound like a pro, then you have to track like a pro. Bottom line? You need this preamp!

M-Audio Focusrite Saffire 6 and M-Audio CX5 Recording Package (Standard)

M-Audio Focusrite Saffire 6 and M-Audio CX5 Recording Package (Standard) Review

Get this complete recording package featuring the Focusrite Saffire 6 Interface, an MXL V63M Microphone, and a pair of M-Audio CX5 Monitors.

Yamaha HS80M Studio Reference Monitor

Yamaha HS80M Studio Reference Monitor Review

Yamaha HS80M Studio Reference Monitor Feature

• 8" white polypropylene cone
• 1" dome tweeter
• 120-watt biamplified power LF:75W@4ohms HF:45W@8ohms
• XLR and 1/4" connectors
• Room control and frequency response switches

The new HS Series powered monitors were designed to be true studio reference monitors in the tradition of the famous NS10Ms. When choosing your next pair of near field reference monitors, remember it's not just important that they sound good; they have to be an honest reference for your mix. The new HS Series of reference monitors were designed to give you exceptionally flat response so you can really trust what you hear. That means that mixes that sound good on Yamaha HS speakers will sound good on anything. In fact, that's the ultimate test of a reference monitor. Even better than that, HS series speakers not only sound good, they look great, too.HS Series cabinets look as great as they sound. Enclosures are constructed of high-quality MDF material and a multiple layer finish that minimizes resonance. Design elements include a black finish and lighted Yamaha tuning fork logo. White polypropylene woofer cones recall the look of the classic Yamaha NS10M, and include low-damping rubber surrounds and full magnetic shielding.

Focusrite ISA Two Focusrite ISA Two Classic Dual Mono Transformer-Based Microphone Preamplifier

Focusrite ISA Two Focusrite ISA Two Classic Dual Mono Transformer-Based Microphone Preamplifier Review

Focusrite ISA Two Focusrite ISA Two Classic Dual Mono Transformer-Based Microphone Preamplifier Feature

• Lundahl LL1538 mic input transformer
• Up to 80 dB of gain
• Variable input impedance and user-calibrated metering
• Front-panel instrument and rear panel line inputs
• Variable cut-off high-pass filter and rear panel balanced inserts

You may only need a couple of mic preamps, but they need to be the very best. The ISA Two dual-mono mic pre is the ideal solution: two independent channels of the highest quality classic Focusrite mic pres, with line in and front-panel instrument inputs – no DI box required. Based on the legendary designs found in the Focusrite Forte and Studio Consoles, ISA Two is the ideal front-end for your rack. Focusrite’s microphone preamplifiers go back to the original Focusrite ISA 110 modules, when Rupert Neve was commissioned by George Martin in 1985 to create a no-compromise channel strip for his Neve console. Combining the very best solid-state electronics with transformer coupling, Focusrite mic pres have played a key part in the recording of hundreds of hit records and they’re the choice of leading artists, producers and engineers around the world. At the heart of the ISA Two is a pair of Lundahl LL1538 transformers. ISA products have relied on Lundahl from the beginning, since their components were originally specified in 1985. The LL1538 features a 3-section winding, resulting in very low leakage inductance and, as a result, an extended frequency response. They’re encapsulated in mu-metal cans to shield them from stray magnetism. ISA Two features two classic Focusrite mic preamps, with four impedance settings including the original ISA 110 setting. Variable input impedance allows you to go for an accurate, transparent sound or choose to highlight the character of your favorite vintage mic – and anywhere in between. With up to 80 dB of low-noise gain, ISA Two can perform in the most demanding situations - really bringing your ribbon, condenser or moving coil mics to life. Each channel has a fully-balanced insert point accessed via TRS sockets on the rear panel and activated with a front-panel button, so it’s easy to use outboard processors with the ISA Two. Just plug in your choice of EQ, compressor or limiter.

Focusrite ISA Two (2-Ch ISA Preamp)

Focusrite ISA Two (2-Ch ISA Preamp) Review

Focusrite ISA Two (2-Ch ISA Preamp) Feature

• 2-Ch ISA Preamp
• Transparency + Warmth = ISA Two Preamp Mic
• 2-channel Mic/Instrument Preamp with 80dB of Gain, Switchable Phantom Power, Variable Hi-pass Filter

The Focusrite ISA Two mic preamp gives you the sonic essence of the legendary Forte and Studio consoles in a single rack unit chassis. You get two channels, with inputs for microphone, line-level, and direct instrument-level sources. A variable impedance selector also lets you dial in the warmth you want without sacrificing clarity. The ISA Two's DI and microphone inputs run in parallel, so you can blend the direct signal of the instrument with the sound of the miked up amplifier - a killer trick for getting bass sounds that are both fat and punchy. If warmth, transparency, and useful features are on your preamp wishlist, check out the Focusrite ISA Two.Focusrite ISA Two Dual-mono Mic Preamp at a Glance:The Focusrite magic: warmth plus transparencyEngineering it rightThe Neve connectionThe Focusrite magic: warmth plus transparencyFocusrite's ISA Two mic preamp has a distinguished heritage. Since its 1985 introduction, the transformer-based Focusrite pre amp has become something of a legend - and a benchmark for transparency. But there's something else going on. That something is a subtle warmth, courtesy of transformer core saturation. It's this apparent contradiction of warmth plus transparently open and unrestricted high frequencies, that identifies the Focusrite "sound" that continues to be in demand in top studios worldwide.Engineering it rightThe Focusrite ISA Two has some innovative thinking under its bonnet. Just what engineering innovations contribute to a superior-sounding mic preamp? For one thing, to eliminate the audible rolloff exhibited by preamps limited to the audible bandwidth, Focusrite ISA pres operate over a much greater range (10Hz-135kHz, in the case of the ISA Two). There's also the ISA topology that gives you up to 80dB of undistorted gain. How about variable input impedance, which lets you fine-tune the amount of "character" in your signal - from pristine transparency, to vintage warmth. The Neve connectionRupert Neve selected the Lundahl LL

MXL Genesis Condenser Tube Microphone Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Interface

MXL Genesis Condenser Tube Microphone Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Interface Review

MXL Genesis Condenser Tube Microphone Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Interface Feature

• Specially Priced Package Includes the MXL Genesis Tube Microphone as packaged by MXL:
• (1) Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Audio Recording Interface
• (1) Ultimate Support JSFB100 Fixed Boom Mic Stand
• (1) KRK KNS8400 Studio Monitor Headphones
• Sonic Sense One-Year Extended Warranty Adds One Year to Manufacturer's Warranty.

This custom package for the MXL Genesis Tube Microphone includes a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 USB Recording Interface, mic stand, and headphone. This is the perfect package for your home studio vocal recording.

Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 Bundle

Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 Bundle Review

Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 Bundle Feature

• Specially Priced Package Includes a FocusRite Scarlett 8i6 as packaged by FocusRite, PLUS:
• (1) Samsom CO1/SR850 Mic Headphone Bundle, (1) Dual MIDI Cable
• (1) 6' Coax S/PDIF Cable, (2) Balanced Interconnect 1/4" TRS to XLR Cable Adapters
• (4) 15' TRS to TRS Balanced Cables, (1) 20' XLR to XLR cable, (1) 10' TS Instrument Cable
• Sonic Sense One-Year Extended Warranty Adds One Year to Manufacturer's Warranty.

This custom built package for the FocusRite Scarlett 8i6 interface includes headphone, a microphone, and cables so you can make get the most out of this interface right out of the box.

Focusrite OctoPre MkII 8-Channel Mic Preamp

Focusrite OctoPre MkII 8-Channel Mic Preamp Review

Focusrite OctoPre MkII 8-Channel Mic Preamp Feature

• Eight High Quality Award-winning Focusrite Pre-ampsBuilt-in eight channel 24-bit / 96 kHz digital outputMic-pres optimized for tracking drumsTwo quality Hi-Z instrument inputs5 LED input metering on every channel-10dB Pads on every channelDirect outputs on every channel48V Phantom power available on every channelState-of-the-art Clocking Solutions

With eight channels of Focusrite pre-amplification and a built-in 24-bit / 96 kHz ADAT output, OctoPre MkII is Focusrite's powerful input upgrade for your Pro Tools system, or any digital audio workstation. It's also a great expansion for any analogue or digital console, or hard disk recorder.The digital output allows users to make the most of often-neglected ADAT inputs; ideal for expanding the number of mic-pre inputs on your interface. Connect OctoPre MkII to your audio interface's ADAT input to create a high quality, multi-channel recording solution, ideal for tracking drums, as well guitars, keyboards, vocals and more.

Akai EIE 16-bit Electromusic Interface Expander

Akai EIE 16-bit Electromusic Interface Expander Review

Akai EIE 16-bit Electromusic Interface Expander Feature

• Record and playback 16-bit, 2-channel audio via USB
• Plug-and-play operation, no driver installation required
• Four XLR-1/4-inches combo jacks with phantom power and gain control
• Four nickel-plated 1/4-inches outputs for two separate monitoring systems
• Two classic, high-quality VU level meters with switchable sources

One convenient box to connect all of your music gear to your computer.

The EIE is all about plug and play convenience. With the EIE tabletop USB audio interface from Akai Professional, you can connect virtually any musical instrument or piece of production gear to your computer. With three convenient USB inputs in addition to its main USB port, EIE enables you to connect controllers, hard drives or any other peripheral to your computer when native ports may be limited. This compact, 16-bit recording interface contains high-quality components including nickel-plated input jacks, analog-style VU meters and a rugged aluminum casing for a powerful, professional, portable audio solution. The EIE can be used with virtually any music software program like GarageBand or Pro Tools and connects plug-and-play to Macs or PCs; there is no driver installation required.

Each channel of the EIE has an XLR-¼-inches combo jack, dedicated gain-pot and Mic/Line/Guitar switch. The EIE features four discrete-design preamplifiers with 48V phantom power for use with virtually any microphone. Individual ¼-inches nickel-plated jacks found on the back of EIE provide you with channel inserts for processing audio signals externally. You can monitor sessions on multiple sets of studio monitors using the four ¼-inches balanced outputs, which are also nickel-plated. Both pairs of outputs can be monitored visually with the high-quality, analog VU meters providing classic features with modern style. For remote tracking and alternative playback, the EIE has a 1/4-inches TRS headphone output. High quality analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters ensure that every detail of your session or performance gets captured and played back faithfully.

The EIE sends and receives four audio channels on a single USB cable for simple, universal interface to your computer. The three additional USB 1.1 ports allow the EIE to function as a hub as well, bridging other MIDI controllers and hard-drives to the computer. EIE's USB interface is class compliant for plug-and-play operation with Mac OS X and Windows XP, Vista and 7. The EIE features traditional MIDI In and Out jacks for playing and controlling software with keyboard and pad controllers, workstations, and other MIDI-compatible instruments.

Akai EIE Pro 24-bit Electromusic Interface Expander

Akai EIE Pro 24-bit Electromusic Interface Expander Review

Akai EIE Pro 24-bit Electromusic Interface Expander Feature

• Record and playback 24-bit, 2-channel audio via USB
• Four XLR-1/4" combo jacks with phantom power and gain control
• Two classic, high-quality VU level meters with switchable sources
• Plug-and-play operation, no driver installation required
• Three additional USB ports for connecting other devices through to a computer
• Four nickel-plated 1/4" outputs for two separate monitoring systems

Professional Audio/MIDI Interface with USB 2.0 Hub.

The EIE Pro is a tabletop USB 2.0 audio interface perfectly tailored for your project and portable studio setups. This four-in, four-out (4x4) device features low latency ASIO drivers and enables you to record up to 24-bit resolution and sample rates of 44.1 kHz/48 kHz/88.2 kHz/96 kHz into virtually any DAW, recording or performance software on Mac and PC-based systems. The EIE Pro also houses three convenient USB inputs, in addition to its main USB 2.0 port, enabling you to connect controllers, hard drives or any other peripheral when native ports on a computer may be limited. The compact recording interface contains high-quality components including nickel-plated input jacks, analog-style VU meters and a rugged aluminum casing for a powerful, professional, portable audio solution.

Each channel of the EIE Pro has a XLR-¼-inches combo jack, dedicated sturdy, gain-pots and Mic/Line/Guitar switches. The EIE Pro features four discrete-design preamplifiers with 48V phantom power for use with virtually any microphone. Individual ¼-inches Nickel-plated jacks found on the back of EIE Pro provide you with channel inserts for processing audio signals externally. You can monitor sessions on multiple sets of studio monitors using the four ¼-inches balanced outputs, which are also Nickel-plated. Both pairs of outputs can be monitored visually with the high-quality, analog VU meters providing classic features with modern style. For remote tracking and alternative playback, the EIE Pro has a 1/4-inches TRS headphone output. High quality analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters ensure that every detail of your session or performance gets captured and played back faithfully.

The EIE Pro sends and receives four audio channels on a single USB cable for simple, universal interface to a computer. The three additional USB ports allow the EIE Pro to function as a hub as well, bridging other MIDI controllers and hard-drives to the computer. The EIE Pro features traditional MIDI In and Out jacks for playing and controlling software with keyboard and pad controllers, workstations, and other MIDI-compatible instruments.

Focusrite VRMBox + KNS6400 Headphones (VRMBox + KNS6400 Headphones)

Focusrite VRMBox + KNS6400 Headphones (VRMBox + KNS6400 Headphones) Review

Focusrite VRMBox + KNS6400 Headphones (VRMBox + KNS6400 Headphones) Feature

• VRMBox + KNS6400 Headphones
• Virtual Reference Monitoring - with Headphones! Monitor Controller
• Virtual Reference Monitoring System Bundle with VRM Box and Headphones

Note: This is a specially priced Focusrite bundle that includes the VRM Box and a pair of KRK KNS 6400 headphones. The Focusrite VRM Box lets you mix in your studio - wherever you happen to be. Virtual Reference Monitoring conquers the main drawback to mixing with headphones by giving you multiple sonic perspectives on your mix - as if you were monitoring through speakers. VRM Box lets you simulate different room acoustics (living room, bedroom, studio), and switch between popular loudspeaker types you'd typically find in those environments. The upshot is that you can tweak your mixes for targeted playback systems - on a plane, if you so desire! How cool is that? Enjoy newfound freedom and tight control over your sound, with Focusrite's VRM Box. Focusrite VRM Box Bundle at a Glance:Use it with any DAWHigh fidelityNext best thing to being thereUse it with any DAWBecause the VRM Box can act either as the primary output of your DAW or inline with the S/PDIF output of your audio interface, you can use it with any DAW, even Pro Tools HD. High fidelityThe VRM Box hardware itself boasts a 108dB dynamic range, far outstripping conventional computer headphone outputs. What's more, the VRM Box supports up to 24-bit/192kHz digital audio, so it's compatible with even the most demanding applications. Next best thing to being thereAlthough monitoring with real studio monitors will always be ideal, a Focusrite VRM Box will make your next best option a whole lot better. And the freedom to mix wherever you happen to be whenever inspiration strikes (or pesky deadlines loom) is liberating, to say the least. Focusrite VRM Box Bundle Features:Hear the sound of your mix on a pair of studio monitors - right in your headphones!Includes VRM Box and KRK KNS 6400 headphonesSupports sample rates up to 24-bit/192kHz via USB or S/PDIF input108dB dynamic rangeUSB 2.0 for connectivity and bus powerStereo S/PDIF input on RCAStereo Headphone output on 1/4" TRSAnalogue headphone output level controlM

TASCAM US-200 2-in/4-out USB 2.0 Audio Interface

TASCAM US-200 2-in/4-out USB 2.0 Audio Interface Review

TASCAM US-200 2-in/4-out USB 2.0 Audio Interface Feature

• 24-bit/96kHz audio resolution
• Two microphone preamps with phantom power, XLR/TRS combo jacks
• Four unbalanced RCA outputs
• MIDI input and output
• Direct Monitor function allows zero-latency monitoring of the input

TASCAM’s US-200 is a 2-in/4-out USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface for Mac and Windows computers, housed in a lightweight, portable chassis. Audio can be recorded at up to 96kHz/24-bit resolution. Two high-quality XLR microphone inputs provide phantom power for condenser microphones. Four unbalanced RCA outputs are available on the rear panel, as well as a MIDI input and output for synths and drum machines. A direct monitoring path is available on the US-200, for monitoring without the delay of going through computer software. The US-200 is buss-powered, meaning no additional power supply is required. A copy of Cubase LE5 is included – the latest version of Steinberg’s 48-track workstation software. VST plug-in support, automated mixing and MIDI tracks allow you to craft large productions without adding any other software. If you want to use your own software, the US-200 supports most Mac and Windows software such as Logic Pro, Live, Nuendo, Digital Performer, Fruity Loops, and Pro Tools 9. Whether you’re just starting out or simply need a great-sounding portable interface, check out the TASCAM US-200.

Focusrite ISA One and Blue Bluebird Mic (ISA One & Blue Bluebird Mic)

Focusrite ISA One and Blue Bluebird Mic (ISA One & Blue Bluebird Mic) Review

Focusrite ISA One and Blue Bluebird Mic (ISA One & Blue Bluebird Mic) Feature

• ISA One & Blue Bluebird Mic
• Legendary Sound at an Incredible Value! Preamp Mic
• ISA One Preamplifier and Blue Bluebird Microphone

With the Focusrite ISA One Bundle, you can get the acclaimed ISA One preamplifier plus the Blue Bluebird mic - for a great bundle-value price! The ISA One Bundle preamplifier features the classic vintage microphone preamplifier topology that formed the cornerstone of each channel of Focusrite's legendary Forte console. In addition to a preamplifier, complemented by a line input, there is also an independent D.I. channel on the ISA One. For premium Focusrite sound plus top-notch conversion, choose the ISA One Bundle.Focusrite ISA One Bundle at a Glance:Exceptional bundle valuePremium ISA One PreamplifierEnjoy ISA One's modern advancementsOther featuresOutputsExceptional bundle valueWhen you choose the Focusrite ISA One Bundle, you'll save big. With the bundle, you get both the Focusrite ISA One preamplifier with the stellar Blue Bluebird mic- for nearly the same price as the ISA One alone!Premium ISA One PreamplifierISA One features the classic vintage microphone preamplifier topology from the original ISA110 module, including the Lundahl L1538 transformer and bespoke zobel network. (The original 110 pre amp formed the cornerstone of each channel of Focusrite's legendary Forte console.) The preamplifier is complemented by a line input (XLR and TRS Jack) and an independent D.I. channel, complete with dedicated gain control, active or passive impedance switch, a TRS Jack output for routing to an amp and an independent XLR output on the rear. This flexible independent D.I. makes the ISA One ideal both for engineers wishing to blend a D.I.-d guitar signal with a miked guitar cabinet, and for demanding performers who require a single classic solution for both guitar and vocals. Both the D.I. channel and the mic pre can be used simultaneously - very cool!Modern advancementsA variable impedance circuit has been added to the ISA One, allowing the user to switch between four carefully selected input impedance settings. In addition to the original ISA110 impedance, three furth

Rode NT1A Anniversary Vocal Condenser Microphone Package

Rode NT1A Anniversary Vocal Condenser Microphone Package Review

Rode NT1A Anniversary Vocal Condenser Microphone Package Feature

• Large 1 inch capsule with gold plated diaphragm
• Cardioid polar pattern
• Self Noise of only 5 dB (A)
• Ultra low noise, transformerless surface mount circuitry
• Wide dynamic range

The NT1A Anniversary Model is a complete redesign of the now legendary NT1 classic studio microphone. From the new nickel plated body to the state of the art surface mount electronic circuitry, the NT1A will leave you asking "how can RODE offer a microphone that sounds this good, for so little money"? The RØDE NT1A, Winner of the Electronic Musician 2004 Editor's Choice Award and the world's quietest studio condenser microphone. This redesigned version of RØDE's classic NT1 has only 5 dBA of self-noise. The NT1A Anniversary model includes a premium shockmount with integrated pop filter, high quality 6m (20’) XLR cable, microphone dust cover and even a bonus instructional DVD. Presented by RODE founder and company president, Peter Freedman, the NT1A Studio Secrets DVD features a range of tips and techniques to help NT1A owners get the most from their new microphone. The NT1A has become an industry standard providing the warmth, extended dynamic range, clarity and high SPL capability usually only found with some of the most expensive microphones. Finished in durable satin nickel, the NT1A is supplied with a shock mount, pop filter, mic cable and pouch.

Focusrite ISA430/220 ADC - Optional 24 bit/ 96kHz Stereo ADC for the ISA220

Focusrite ISA430/220 ADC - Optional 24 bit/ 96kHz Stereo ADC for the ISA220 Review

With Focusrite's stereo ISA430/220 A/D card installed, the ISA 220 can be used as a high quality mono/stereo tracking converter, or at mix down as a stereo converter channel for routing complete mixes to digital media.

Pro Tools Mbox (3rd gen)

Pro Tools Mbox (3rd gen) Review

Pro Tools Mbox (3rd gen) Feature

• Includes Pro Tools LE software
• Compatible with most major audio software (Pro Tools LE, Logic, Live, Cubase, and more)
• Bus-powered USB 2.0 connection for maximum mobility
• Professional-grade circuitry and converters deliver exceptional audio performance
• Up to 24-bit, 96 KHz sample rates

Professionals around the world have long been using Pro Tools systems to create award-winning music and sound for film and TV. Now you can get the same world-class results in your personal studio with Pro Tools Mbox-a complete, integrated, computer-based music creation and production system. Designed by the same engineering team responsible for our high-end Pro Tools/HD systems, the Mbox hardware interface features a premium analog signal path and high-performance converters for exceptional sound. The included Pro Tools LE software is the same platform used in commercial facilities arounf the world-ensuring pro studio compatibility and delivering everything you need to compose, record, edit, and mix music. Mbox also provides third-party drivers for rock-solid integration with nearly every popular audio recording application.

Creative Labs E-MU 8740A 0204 USB 2.0 Audio Interface (Black)

Creative Labs E-MU 8740A 0204 USB 2.0 Audio Interface (Black) Review

Creative Labs E-MU 8740A 0204 USB 2.0 Audio Interface (Black) Feature

• Pristine 24-bit/192kHz recording, playback and audio specifications unmatched by any other interface in its price range
• Cross-platform support (Mac OS X and Windows XPx64/Vista) and compatibility with most popular audio/sequencer applications (ASIO2, WDM, MME, Apple Core Audio and Core MIDI) supported
• Contains two of our famed XTC, ultra-low noise preamplifiers with up to +60dB of gain
• Plug your electric guitar or bass right into the Hi-Z inputs of the 0204, eliminating the need for an instrument direct box or preamp
• Headphone output can either monitor the main outputs (for listening to music or recording), or it can be set up as a completely separate stereo output with the same exceptional specifications as the main outputs.
• Headphone output can either monitor the main outputs or it can be set up as a completely separate stereo output with the same exceptional specifications as the main outputs.
• Cross-platform support (Mac OS X and Windows XPx64/Vista) and compatibility with most popular audio/sequencer applications
• ASIO2, WDM, MME, Apple Core Audio and Core MIDI) supported
• Headphone output can either monitor the main outputs (for listening to music or recording)
• Or it can be set up as a completely separate stereo output with the same exceptional specifications as the main outputs.
• Pristine 24-bit/192kHz recording, playback and audio specifications unmatched.
• Contains two of our famed XTC.
• It can be set up as a completely separate stereo output with the same exceptional specifications as the main outputs.

The EMU 0204 USB is the ultimate portable USB audio interface for the Mac and PC, offering pristine 24-bit/192kHz recording and playback, direct monitoring, and a host of professional features in a compact, USB bus-powered package. EMU 0204 USB features two XTC Class-A, ultra-low noise Mic/Line/Hi-Z preamplifiers that can be run independently or in stereo to record guitars, basses, keyboards or microphones with optimal audio performance. A 2-input/4-output interface is perfect for many non-professional musicians with home recording setups, especially when the audio specifications of EMU 0204 USB rival or exceed those of other interfaces costing hundreds of dollars more. Contains two XTC ultra-low noise Mic/Line/Hi-Z preamplifiers, which have been favorably compared to boutique preamps costing thousands of dollars or more. In addition, guitars, basses and keyboards can be plugged directly into the Hi-Z inputs to access the world of computer audio recording and software plug-ins. Combined with a laptop computer and a pair of microphones, the 0204 USB makes a great bus-powered, field audio recorder with audio specs exceeding other units costing many times more. (Although only the left input has an XLR jack, both channels are balanced mic inputs and feature the superb, XTC low-noise preamplifiers.)