[NAMM] Alesis iO4 USB Audio Interface

This four-channel USB device for Mac and PC-based systems enables users to record and monitor up to eight channels of audio (4 in, 4 out) at 16-bit recording, or four channels (2 in, 2 out) at 24-bit. The iO4 fits into a mobile recording rig, laptop bag or backpack.

The iO4 has four input channels, each having an XLR microphone input, a 1/4” TRS insert for external effects units and a 1/4” TS jack that works with line-level sources and can accommodate direct connection of guitars. The iO4 features preamplifiers and 48-volt phantom power on each of its four input channels as well for use with microphones and audio sources.

Producers and musicians will appreciate the ability to connect a second pair of reference monitors or route audio to external effects processors using iO4’s four available output channels. For remote tracking and alternative playback, the iO4 has a 1/4” TRS headphone output. The iO4 features MIDI In and Out jacks for playing and controlling software with keyboard and pad controllers, workstations, and other MIDI-compatible instruments.

The iO4 sends and receives eight audio channels on a single USB cable for simple, universal interface to a computer. The bus-powered USB interface is class compliant for plug-and-play operation with Mac OS X and Windows XP, Vista and 7.

The iO4 comes with a copy of Steinberg Cubase LE digtal audio workstation (DAW) software. In addition to the included software, the iO4 is said to be compatible with virtually all audio and MIDI software.