Review: Presonus AudioBox GO
The „Go“in the name already indicates that this USB audio interface is primarily designed for mobile use. And the AudioBox GO scores with its format.
At only approximately 11 x 8 x 4 cm, the AudioBox GO is even more compact than most mobile audio solutions we have tested. And the featherweight of 230 grams can hardly be felt in your pocket. But the low weight already indicates that Presonus has only relied on plastic here. We would, therefore, recommend the AudioBox less for raw stage use, but for the jam session at your buddy‘s house or in the park; the quality fits. Even in a cramped desktop studio, you‘ll be happy about every centimeter gained. In the studio, however, you might want to secure the AudioBox with Velcro so that it doesn‘t slip, or even fall off the studio table, every time a cable is touched.
2x2 audio interface
AudioBox GO is a 2x2 USB audio interface. There is a microphone input with the XMAX-L preamp that is already familiar from other Presonus models, which can offer up to 50 dB of preamplification in the GO model. With low-level microphones such as the Shure SM7B, this can be a bit tight, but as a rule, there should be enough reserves. A line signal can also be recorded using the XLR/jack combo socket instead of a microphone.
The second input is only available as a jack and is optimized for instruments; however, the different orientation of the two inputs also means that stereo recordings are not as easy to implement as you might expect.
While we‘re on the rear panel, let‘s take a look at the other connections: Two jack outputs go to the monitoring system, such as a mixing console, amplifier or active monitor speakers. And the USB-C port connects the AudioBox GO to your computer, which then also takes care of the power supply.
Direct monitoring
The first thing that catches your eye is the mix control on the front panel. Here, you can mix the input signals (such as microphone or guitar) continuously with the playback from your DAW and listen to them latency-free during the recording. Such a flexible solution directly via hardware is not a matter of course for compact interfaces in this price range and, therefore, gives it a plus point. Two additional small controls are responsible for the recording level of the two inputs.
In the test, it was noticeable that the level was not linear, but that a strong amount of amplification took place in the last control range, which was then also associated with an increased noise level. If you take this feature into account and avoid the last boost, the AudioBox GO proves to be very low-noise. In addition, there is the illuminated switch for 48V phantom power, the large volume control and the headphone output on the front.
Another thing worth mentioning is the extensive software package, which covers a wide range of music production tasks and offers real added value for both beginners and advanced users.
Field test
The AudioBox GO is class-compliant, that is, it is recognized and integrated by your computer without prior driver installation. It is recommended, however, that you download the free control software from Presonus. This gives you direct access to the sample rate, clock source and buffer size. Just connect the cables to the sockets which are, unfortunately, not secured to the case making them a bit wobbly; and the test scenario is ready. During the first listening test, the audio signal from the DAW could be played back via the studio monitors without audible distortions. The relatively powerful and punchy headphone output also stood out positively, which is, unfortunately, not a matter of course for inexpensive compact interfaces. The various recordings from microphone, electric guitar and analog mono synthesizer were also pleasing: Predominantly linear without big dents in the frequency response, and pleasantly free of background noise.
Verdict
AudioBox scores with an ultra-compact format and low weight. Although you have to make some sacrifices in terms of features and build quality, the sound quality has not been skimped on and the recordings with the AudioBox GO can definitely satisfy even semi-professional demands. ⸬