All user reviews of 4/5 for the Tascam US-122

The Tascam US-122 is one of the few usb audio-midi combination interfaces on the market. It features two xlr inputs, two line level inputs, direct input monitoring, and a stereo line-level output with level control. It is compatible with both Mac and Windows systems, although due to its age, is not officially supported by the newest operating systems.

This is a great portable interface that can do a little of everything. I mainly used it with my live laptop setup to play synths and keyboards, which is perfect with this unit, since it can process MIDI and audio at the same time. I've also used it to record guitars and microphones on the fly.

UTILIZATION

The drivers on Tascam audio interfaces, in general, can be problematic. Sometimes they work seamlessly, but sometimes they just don't work on certain operating systems or computer setups. I've owned three different Tascam audio interfaces, and each one has different drivers that seem to work the best on different setups. Unfortunately, the US-122 did not function with my new Mac OS 1.7 laptop, but it has worked fine for me on Windows XP laptops. Since this model is discontinued, there will likely never be updated drivers to better support newer operating systems.

The US-122 can record and playback two channels at once (stereo). I've used it with SONAR almost exclusively, and I've had no problems on my Windows systems. The drivers are not as low latency as some of the newer interfaces out there, but it was certainly fast enough for playing live keyboards for live shows.

GETTING STARTED

General setup is fairly easy: Install the drivers from the Tascam website or an included cd, plug in the interface via usb, and start using it through a DAW or standalone soft synthesizer. One of the advantages of this interface is that it is simple to use, especially with MIDI. All of the routing goes though one interface, so it is fairly easy to setup.

OVERALL OPINION

Overall, this is a versatile, portable audio interface that can be useful for many different applications. It may be a bit dated, but if you can find a good deal on this unit used, and you own an older operating system, this interface may be perfect. I owned this interface for several years, and it has served me well.

CHARACTERISTICS of equipment

Audio / MIDI interface compatible with Windows and Macintosh team with a USB connector

Analog-digital and analog-numrique with a resolution of 24 bits

2 analog audio inputs with volume controls, switchable between microphone (XLR, symtrique) and line / guitar (jack, symtrique)

Fantme power (48 V) can be active for condenser microphones

Line out Stereo (RCA, asymtrique) with volume control

2 loops (Inserts)

Respectively between 1 and 1 MIDI output

Power supply via USB AC adapter or batteries unnecessary

Based on direct costs with individual volume control, switch on / off switch and mono

Headphone output with volume control

Windows 98SE, ME, 2000 and XP, ASIO, MME and GSIF

Mac OS 8.6, 9 and OS X 10.2, ASIO, Sound Manager, Core Audio, WHO and MIDI Free

Version of specially Cubasis VST Steinberg and USB cable included in delivery
ps is shooting btement Site tascam.de DSOL chui some flmard ...

UTILIZATION

That is the a becomes INTERESTED ...
the use is simple, that is to have j'apprcie ct pose and be able to connect appliances and dconnecter on the map without needing any dplacer ( yeah my pc is encatr in my office!)
functions are conventional line-volume, headphone volume, volumes between lines (R + L) ... direct monitor function very practical for those who use me as VSTi, this feature allows you to play with a latency of about 1.5ms if not all I do not want to say stupid things happen but it seems a 15ms latency ...
There's also a loop to add effects machines ...
As for the manual need to learn English!

GETTING STARTED

Gnrale the sound is good, I did not notice any breath ... Converter 24bit works perfectly.

OVERALL OPINION

What else to say ... especially since I use it only for about 3 weeks ...
In any case, the report qualitprix me Parrat good (it's one of the best market I've found)
if I had to redo the exprience on it as I would buy the same ... plus the design is nice with its aluminum case and the blue rubber band on it

In short my opinion is you can not be advanced over the board but I everyone who have small home studio with me home with some gear forcment not professional!

Sound card external 24bits/48kHz afternoon in a housing made of aluminum alloy (USB 1.0)
- 2 mono inputs on XLR or jack 6.35 with selection of impdance (guitar or instrument / mic), pramp, SETTING THE gain, phantom power supply and an insert.
- A stereo RCA output with volume SETTING THE / 1 stereo headphone jack with volume 6.35.
- An adjustable 'direct monitoring' (which is aptly named)
- 1 MIDI I / O
- Small led all showing prsences signals between MIDI notes, power of the card.

------------------

CHARACTERISTICS pass, we can say that this card brings together everything you need to model and you spend a small mix console.
It possde of pramp microphone with phantom power supply, XLR and SETTING THE volume knob + insert (useful for a comp). It possde input jack switchable impdance guitar-bass (very nice surprise, a chromatic tuner is available in software)
It possde a SETTING THE volume for the headphone output and STREO (useful to boot the PC you are pregnant with monitoring)
And MIDI input / output to connect a Controller (keyboard or otherwise)
Basically all the connections ncessaire on the desktop.
In addition it is quite pretty and looks robust (the case is still pretty compact)

For all these points, level 10/10 CHARACTERISTICS.

UTILIZATION

The manual is in English so be careful. Installation without any problem (in XP)
1 - it installs the drivers without connecting the card.
2 - the end of the install, it connects the card.
3 - you reboot the PC, install a few files back and it prt!

A total of 2 minutes (one, 3 minutes). The windows are similar config all other cards, SETTING THE buffer for latency and it can all prs

For ease of implementation, I put 8 because the manual is available in English.

GETTING STARTED

No problem for drivers at the moment. This is a notice hot, I will return in a few months.
I get 21 ms latency 44kHz, 16 bits. Enough for my use.

OVERALL OPINION

I've had ... one day only (view hot, I RPET)

(+) All the connections available, the knobs of rglage, sound.
(+) The look (it's subjective), the overall construction.

(-) The knobs 'float' a little (but definitely not spit!). In use, we'll see. This may be done for expr allger precisely the action of the knob on the plate lctronique (it's a hypothse)

I was looking for a card that would allow me to connect every 2 minutes in, when I from small mix console. This card is just fine. This is a notice hot, I put in 8

Overall, I will return in a few months. For now, trs positive opinion!

[update] 2 months of use. No problem. I maintain the view. I do not get too much notice of Piem (the problem seems to come from the laptop - USB controller means - not the card ... careful guys when you give advice as constructive ... the card is not in question, it ncessite a USB power supply worthy of the name)

This card has the advantage of combining midi + audio in a single device for an extremely reasonable price (less than 200 €).
I wanted to turn my laptop (centrino processor, 512 MB RAM) in "home studio" To record guitars, keyboards and voice audio midi.

UTILIZATION

On installing xp service pack 2, no problems! ... In 30 seconds it's done!
I did not then very long but so far no incompatibility reported.
Setup is extremely simple and ergonomics of the "config panel" very clear.
Side by manual cons, there's really only what you need.

GETTING STARTED

I installed the driver provided on the Tascam site and everything works impeccable '.
I use Cubase VST for my recordings, many plug-ins for audio and vst instruments (like the B4) for keyboards. Level latency, good surprise, inaudible on vst instruments, and nothing to report as "perceptually annoying" audio either!

OVERALL OPINION

I use it for a week. I appreciate the ease of use of this map, branch, 2-3 settings and go!
Before I used a mixer connected to a SB live card for a desktop (this is also why I am delighted for the latent side us122 )
The value for money is excellent, at least for use in "amateur". So the choice I would do without hesitation.

ps: I just drop the overall rating for a Tascam probably saves the knobs and switches, which still remind me a bit of toys my 4 year old cousin!

I bought long ago in order to receive MIDI input and a sound card fast (ASIO) on my laptop (a P4 with 512MB RAM running XP). Temper but I mainly use Cubase and Reason and it has always turned out well, only a few synth VST (freeware) and a sampler I have posed some problems but I think this is due to the ram in my PC is rather narrow. The beast also runs fine under Vista.

UTILIZATION

Overall, the results are very good whether it be the sound quality or latency.
on the other hand, WHOLESALE flat, drivers are no longer updated. Officially, the latter system is compatible with Vista PC, but I heard that some come to install it on Seven.

GETTING STARTED

The machine is easy to use and complete.
Rich connections: Midi in out
Microphone inputs (with phantom power) / line (2xmono)
Send entries on the two loops to create pure effects
Stereo line output
Headphone
Possibility of adjusting the level has all the floors (and out), direct monitoring (on / off and level)
Setting the latency ASIO, DirectX, MME, ...

OVERALL OPINION

I still serves today. Sometimes I also use a Zoom H4 as a sound card but it is less functional.
I particularly appreciate its versatility and robustness against I bitterly regret the abandonment of any updated driver.

Put off the problem of the US-122 driver is always in style of the day (MK2 version does not seem to bring anything new) is up to you to see.

- What characteristics have motivated your choice?

No novice at the time I have been guided by the advice of others.

- For what purpose?

Record different instruments and voices making

UTILIZATION

- The installation is done it without problems? Yes
- Have you experienced any incompatibilities? Not
- The general configuration is easy? Yes
- The manual is clear and sufficient? .. Not even

GETTING STARTED

- The drivers are stable? Yes
- Are they often updated? Not required
- What software do you use most often? Cubase SX3
- What you get lag? Less than 8 ms
- How many tracks you get to record / play time? ... One ... its weak point

OVERALL OPINION

- How long have you use it? 3 years
- What is so special that you like most and least? Preamp not powerful enough
- Have you tried many other models before buying it? My first
- How would you rate the quality / price? Excellent for the time
- With experience, you do again this choice? ... for a beginner? Yes

If I had to switch to another card that would not hesitate a Tascam

The Tascam US-122 is a compact USB audio interface with both audio and MIDI capabilities.  This is aimed for the user who wants a small audio interface to build a small home studio around.  The US-122 has two XLR mic inputs and stereo 1/4" connections as well.  It also has a MIDI input and output and 1/4" outputs for monitors and headphones.  In total, you've got the ability to record two tracks at once, whether it be by mic or direct line.

UTILIZATION

The make up of the Tascam US-122 interface is very straight forward.  Everything is clearly labeled and easy to understand, as it is indeed catered for those who are new with audio interfaces and computer recording.  You can use the interface with pretty much any software, but I've used it with Cubase.  Since I wasn't using this within my own recording rig, I'm not sure about the specs that I used with it, but I do know that the interface ran smoothly and that I didn't get any latency will using it on a Mac Book lap top.  This only has the capabilities to record two tracks at a time, but I was able to run a bunch of pre-recorded tracks along with it as well.


GETTING STARTED

The process of getting the Tascam US-122 up and running is one that I wasn't involved with as it was already set up when I tried using it.  However, judging by looking at it and from what I know about audio interfaces, I would say that this should be a fairly simple process to set up depending on what type of configuration you're running the interface with.  I've never had a need to check out the manual for the US-122, so I can't say anything about its make up...


OVERALL OPINION

While I can't say that the mic preamps on the Tascam US-122 have all that great of a sound, for those who want a low priced audio interface to get your home recording studio up and running, I believe that this should be tried out and investigated.  I love how compact it is, as it makes it easy to move from place to place if you wanted to get a mobile studio going.  It also has a good amount of features for such a small interface.  This is definitely a good budget audio interface to check out if you're looking for one to get started with.

This is an inexpensive USB powered external audio interface for your computer; the purpose of which is to replace your computer's built-in sound card and provide superior sound and better audio hook up options. It features two XLR mic inputs with phantom power option, two quarter inch line/guitar in jacks, two quarter inch insert jacks, adjustable input levels, RCA line out jacks, midi in/out, headphone out jack, headphone level knob, line out level knob, direct monitor level knob, switch for mono or stereo monitoring, and plenty of LED lights that help you see whats going on. The unit is solidly built and is housed in a metal case.

UTILIZATION

When I first installed this on an old G3 Imac there where a few timing issues but I was able to resolve them by adjusting the buffer. I once tried to install this on a friend's PC laptop and was never able to get it to work. It could have been the laptop or it could have been the US-122s software. I don't know.

GETTING STARTED

I only used this unit briefly to make multi-track recordings. I have never had any problems. In recent years I use it occasionally to input cassette and LP recordings into my computer for conversion to audio CDs and MP3s. The unit works nicely with no issues. I like the unit ergonomically with its knobs on top, small size, and strong construction. Its easy, clear and straightforward to use. The unit sounds good but not as good as my Motu 828 Firewire audio interface. I can hear the difference but I don't know how to describe the difference. The US-122 is powered completely by USB so it makes sense that the amplifiers are not as sophisticated as a unit such as the Motu 828 which is powered by more juice.

OVERALL OPINION

I bought this when it first came out and at the time it was a ground breaking product for its price range. Now Tascam has a newer version and there are many other similar brands on the market. I have not heard or used any of these. However for my needs I have no reason to ever abandon this unit in favor of a newer one.