Audient Audio Interface iD4 MKII, Class A Console Microphone Preamp (High Speed USB-C, Monitor Mix and Monitor Panning Function, 2 Headphone Outputs, Mac/PC/iOS Compatible), Black

Product Information

AudioFuse connects via USB 2, but USB connectivity goes further; Arturia has built a USB hub into it, providing three extra USB ports. AudioFuse provides a beautiful and contemporary approach to USB audio interfacing with a great design, compatibility with a huge range of possible audio sources, a great sound and a highly tactile control set. EVO 16 is designed to work in tandem with the EVO software app, and this offers deep control of the unit. Many of EVO 16’s parameters can also be accessed from the front panel using the parameter buttons and main volume, which doubles as an encoder. This is made much simpler thanks to EVO 16’s LCD display. This tiny display is not only crystal clear but easy to view even when you’re way off-axis. Audio quality is where ID44 MkII really shines; everything else is icing on the cake, but that icing is layered deep and tastes exceptionally sweet. Clarett is Focusrite’s premium USB range with three models and a decent bundle of software including Focusrite’s Red 2 and Red 3 plugins and Plugin Alliance’s bx_console Focusrite SC. Clarett+ focuses on improving audio performance rather than expanding that feature set.

The technical specifications line up nicely with other interfaces in their range. Comparing them to their own even more budget‑friendly EVO 4 and EVO 8 interfaces there’s not much in it on paper. They both run at 24‑bit and 96kHz; they have similar signal‑to‑noise of 101dBu, slightly improved dynamic range at 120dB, the same 58dB gain range on the mic input, slightly less on the JFET input.

Firstly, the introduction of new generation DAC’s meant we were able to reduce distortion to vanishingly low levels whilst increasing dynamic range dramatically, to give the purest possible representation of your audio. Secondly, we added what is known as a DC Servo to the output which allows for the removal of DC without the use of capacitors on the audio path, which can cause smearing and low-frequency loss. This ensures that the headphone outputs retain the sharp details of your audio whilst also providing a powerful low-end response. Bundled with a free suite of creative software including Cubase LE and Cubasis LE for iOS, alongside industry leading plugins and virtual instruments, you can start recording as soon as you open the box. Specifications Compatible with iOS devices, iD4 truly lets you record anywhere, whenever inspiration strikes. Built to Last - All metal construction

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen is one of the most popular USB Audio Interfaces currently on the market. The 3 rd generation of the Scarlett series got a couple upgrades when compared to the 2 nd gen, which are: But if you don’t have the budget for any of them, then the Scarlett 2i2 should be more than enough to cover your needs! In our experience, Focusrite’s Scarlett USB interfaces have traditionally combined excellent sonics and audio flexibility at affordable price points, and the third-generation units keep up the good work. This is when the input is sent straight to the headphones greatly reducing the latency. On the iD range, for example, this can be done through either the monitor mix control or using the iD mixer.When recording using a computer, one thing you’ll want to understand is Latency and how it can affect your sessions. Modern computers are wonders of technology and can process audio at incredibly fast speeds.

The SSL 12 is the bigger, new relation to the SSL 2 and 2+ interfaces. It has extra connectivity but the same option to inject some classic SSL character – inspired by the SSL 4000 console – into your recordings. We captured an acoustic guitar through the DI input while simultaneously recording the vocal with an sE Electronics RNR1 through the mic preamp. The mic requires phantom power and a fair amount of gain, but gave us the ability to set the null point to point at the guitar, providing a reasonable amount of separation between the two. With only the two inputs, the Audient iD4 is pretty minimal, but it covers the needs of many musicians whether electronic or acoustic and, as it’s small and buss powered, it can be taken on the road for any travelling songwriters who want to work on the go. My feeling is that Audient have got the balance between functionality, usability and form factor right for the situation in which they envisage the iD4 being used. Most importantly, however, the performance of the single classic Audient Class-A microphone preamplifier is exemplary, and the J-FET instrument DI can add a pleasing touch of body and warmth when pushed. The other adjustable causes of latency would all be found within the processing of the audio either in the converters or the plugins.Continuing with our postal service theme each processor would be a post distribution centre where the post is processed and sent on to its next stop at either another centre or the recipients house.

Recording is a lot easier when you've a USB audio interface that's full of bright iDeas

While most of the time latency is unnoticeable and if it remains consistent it’s easily fixable in post-recording, this article is going to discuss the different causes of latency and the things you can do to fix them. Direct Monitoring Direct Monitoring

A compact interface with pro features and connectivity, the SSL2+ promises an affordable version of ‘the SSL sound’, bringing the feel of a gazillion recordings made in 7-figure recording studios within reach of everybody. This, for audio systems, causes a problem as audio requires a constant stream of samples due to being a continuous waveform. To do this, audio systems have what’s known as a buffer. These are robust interfaces. They sit solidly on your desk and exude a sort of professional calm. They are weighty, serious and look far cooler than their predecessors. While they don’t bring anything particularly new or innovative to the table, the sound quality is exemplary, and the feature set brings them in line with our modern needs for streaming and podcasting. Only the iD14 MkII has had any physical upgrades with the dual headphone output, an extra pair of outputs and the ability to be fully bus‑powered. Otherwise, the performance improvements are internal, although you shouldn’t underestimate the positive impact of the cool new look. The older iD44 and iD22 do now look rather drab and dated in comparison.To understand latency in audio systems today we are going to use the analogy of the postal system (snail mail!). Let’s first imagine the ideal situation: Furthermore, the new v4 drivers for the iD range and Sono mean you can use lower buffer sizes with higher stability in larger sessions.