Now you can record on the move with any compatible device and monitor in real-time! So here it is, the ultra-compact iRig Pro I/O for mobile recording! iRig Pro I/O connects all of your studio gear to your PC, iPad, Mac, iPhone, and Android device to play and record on the move.
iRig Pro I/O is a pocket-sized audio and MIDI interface that delivers 24-bit/96kHz recording studio-quality sound wherever you go. Aside from iRig Pro, there is other audio and MIDI interface that’s worth the try. If you’re looking for some alternatives, here’s a list you might want to check out.
Audient iD4 MkII
The iD4 MkII is a primary two-input/two-output offering with a mic preamp – replete with phantom power for utilizing condenser microphones – and also an instrument-level DI for plugging in your instrument or bass, as well as a clever scroll wheel allowing you to adjust settings in your program. In addition, there is a primary output for your speakers as well as twin headphone outputs.
USB-C powers the entire device, and it can also be used with an iPhone/iPad if you have Apple’s camera connection kit. Though, the actual devilry is in the details: Audient has considered all of it with quality and efficiency in mind, ensuring what would be a budget solution seems anything but cheap. Simply put, the Audient iD4 MkII is the finest USB audio interface we’ve seen at this price in a long time.
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 3rd Gen
Focusrite’s Scarlett USB interfaces have long been known for delivering great sonics and audio versatility at a reasonable price, and the third generation devices continue to do so.
All devices in the line have undergone physical and technological improvements, including better preamps (up to 56dB gain), balanced connection throughout, and the addition of Focusrite’s ISA transformer preamp emulation option (Air). In addition, the Scarlett 4i4 bus-powered mixer has two mic/line/instrument ports and gain, two line-level TRS inputs, and four TRS outputs.
Because the 4i4 supports Focusrite’s Control program, a lot of settings can only be changed in the software. The software also monitors low-latency situations.
As we’ve learned to know from the Scarlett series, the sonics are neutral, and the drivers are dependable. In addition, the Air option shifts the frequency response to higher frequencies, which may help reduce unwanted closeness or provide a high-frequency lift.
This is a good improvement and an excellent cheap audio interface with an affordable software package.
Native Instruments Komplete Audio 2
Komplete Audio 2 has two identical mic/line/instrument inputs and two outputs. Connections are made using space-saving combi XLRs with separate selection switches for line and instrument. Meanwhile, 48V phantom power is activated worldwide by a single button.
In addition to the inputs, the front panel has a hardware monitoring balance knob (Input/Host) and an independent headphone output.
A big output level knob on the top panel controls the primary output level. In addition, input meters, as well as phantom and USB indicators, may be found here. The USB B connection is located on the rear, along with a pair of balanced outputs on TRS 14-inch jacks and a Kensington Security slot.
It enters our list of the best audio interfaces because the Komplete Audio 2 performs as well as it appears. Even if the capabilities are minimal, it accomplishes its job excellently. And, when you include the superb software package, it’s a fantastic deal.
SSL 2+ audio interface
The SSL2+ offers an inexpensive version of “the SSL sound,” putting the sense of a billion records produced in 7-figure recording facilities within reach of everyone.
The significant difference between this and the regular SSL2 is that the 2+ adds two outputs to the 2’s 2-in, 2-out arrangement, MIDI In/Out, and an extra separate headphone out (with both being able to monitor different mixes). There’s also a 4k option, which provides some additional presence and high-end zing (and, more significantly, makes you feel like an expert).
Two combi mic/line inputs with Hi-Z (impedance) settings let you swap between guitar and bass signals, as well as those from synthesizers or drum machines. A +48v option enables the use of both dynamic and condenser microphones.
The SSL 2+ is highly recommended because of its excellent recording quality and monitoring, as well as its versatile I/O setup.
Audient Evo 4
The small Evo line was introduced to great acclaim during the NAMM Show 2020. EVO 4 has two combi mic/line inputs on the rear and one instrument-level input on the front for attaching a guitar or bass (which then overrides the first input around the back).
Two speaker outs complete the connections, and a central main dial controls the level of that output as well as the number of other levels determined mainly by which buttons on the top of the panel you press, which are 1 and 2 (for the input levels), output (bottom right), and a final button that means the dial adjust the mix between the input and DAW. When using the headphone jack, the main dial regulates this level.
The one-dial solution is well executed and intended to contribute to EVO is an innovative, compact desktop solution that sounds fantastic.
