AXE I/o Premium Audio Interface
£369/$399
Key features 2 in/5 out • 24 bit/192khz • 117db dynamic range
Learn more ikmultimedia.com
Available from gak.co.uk Editor’s Choice
If you’re serious about obtaining the perfect tone when recording live guitar tracks on your Mac then IK Multimedia’s new AXE I/O high-end audio interface and controller delivers premium sound and advanced guitar tone shaping features not found anywhere else.
Box of delights
The compact unit features adjustable impedance, streamlined preamplification functions and a variety of instrument input circuits, as well as a wealth of recording options, including high-end mic preamps, topnotch converters, 192khz operation, a wide dynamic range and an extended frequency response. And breathe! It also doubles up as a controller to allow guitar players and bassists to record and perform with realtime effects like wah and volume, offering hands-free control over their preferred guitar software. Of course, if this software includes IK Multimedia’s own Amplitube and T-racks packages then you’ll find plugins here to access over 150 guitar and outboard effects.
The main input channel offers both a fully discrete Class A PURE circuit for pristine, uncoloured sound as well as a JFET circuit for harmonically rich recording. A pickup selector provides an ACTIVE mode that bypasses unnecessary gain stages for use with active pickups, keeping the signal path as direct and clean as possible. Above these switches on the face of the unit is the Z-TONE impedance tonal control dial that allows you to adjust the input impedance of the device to interact with your guitar pickups in a cool new way. With this you can make adjustments to tone, transients and dynamics for almost unparalleled tonal flexibility. These input stages provide a 117db dynamic range to ensure the cleanest possible signal, while the extended 3Hz–32khz frequency response preserves the full sonic impact of your instrument, even by going far and beyond the frequency response of other audio interfaces.
Reamp it up
As if we needed more sonic flexibility, the AXE I/O also offers a streamlined reamplification setup that allows users to integrate real-world gear – such as amps and stompboxes – into a recording setup without the inherent hisses or hums that are a typical by-product of these connections. No other external signal conversion boxes or accessories are required for this and it does a great job of eliminating ground loops to keep even highgain reamplification as quiet as possible.
Measuring just 23.5x19x5.5cm, the AXE
I/O sits perfectly under your Mac or atop your amp stack and looks every inch the serious piece of kit that its specifications attest to. LED indicators help you keep on top of the levels, the dials and switches boast smooth actions and everything you need is within easy reach. It’s a fabulous piece that will transform the way in which you record guitar music and help you obtain the tones of your dreams.
“It will transform the way in which you record guitar music”