Group Test: Two Channel Interfaces

In the new paradigm compact is king and this means a twin channel interface shouldn’t be regarded in any way inferior to a more wedged-up multichannel offering. We’ve assembled some of the latest options to give them the once over

1

Focusrite’s second generation 2i2 has changes under the hood that mean improved mic pres, lower latency and higher sample rates (up to 192kHz). Both channels handle mic, line and instruments, and input levels are indicated by the backlit gain knobs. There’s separate monitor and headphone level control, and simple zero latency hardware monitoring (though no balance control). Finally, you get a software bundle including Pro Tools First, Ableton Live Lite and Focusrite’s Red and Creative plug-in suites. Overall, a solid performer. www.focusrite.com VERDICT 9

2

The iD4 is a USB2.0 buss-powered 24-bit/96kHz interface with one mic/line and one DI input. It features Audient’s well-respected class A console mic pre, and a J-FET based DI. You get stereo monitor output on the back and twin headphone outs on the front. Zero latency monitoring is via a simple input/DAW balance knob, and the inputs can be stereo spread or mono’d to aid your headphone blend. The main volume knob includes a push action for monitor dim, and also doubles as a software scroll wheel when the iD button is engaged. A straightforward design with excellent build quality and audio fidelity. www.audient.com VERDICT 9.2

3

M-Audio’s C Series 2x2 comes in both MIDI and non MIDI versions and supports buss powering via USB2.0 and USB-C. Shared features include zero latency monitoring via the USB/ direct control, independent level controls for the headphone output and main outputs, and 24-bit/ 192kHz operation. In addition to MIDI in and out, the MIDI version also gets mic, line and instrument options for both input channels, rather than one of each on the basic model. Bundled software includes Cubase LE and Air Music Tech plug-in effects/software instruments. www.m-audio.com VERDICT 9.6

4

ConnectAudio2+ is a slick 2-in 6-out 24-bit/96kHz audio and MIDI interface. Designed for Mac, PC and iOS, the unit can be USB2.0 buss-powered, or powered externally. The front display also has touch capabilities for switching inputs, activating 48V phantom etc. The real power here lies in the iConfig app (desktop and iOS), which provides extensive audio routing (via its audio patchbay and mixer) and MIDI port filtering. www.iconnectivity.com VERDICT 8.2

5

The MiniStudio Personal (US-32) and MiniStudio Creator (US-42) interfaces are primarily designed for podcasting duties via USB and on iOS. You can combine hardware inputs (mic and line) and your computer audio, then using their included desktop app also add spot effects, reverb and processing. The resulting mix is then routed back to your computer using the ‘On Air’ button. The US-42 also includes a regular ‘creator’ mode, and coupled with two rather than one mic/line/instrument inputs and separate monitor outputs, it can be used as a straightforward 2x2 interface. Plenty of backlit buttons mean both units also look great. www.tascam.eu VERDICT 8.8