Meanwhile, Universal Audio Apollo Twin did not receive any endorsements this month. Visit our corporate site (opens in new tab). Now if youve been wondering whether its possible to have good looks and functionality all in one the answer is yes.The Apollo Twin Solo and Duo from Universal Audio looks amazing on the desk, and also comes with an array of features for the pragmatic producer. My biggest niggle with the AXR4T is the omission of a Thunderbolt cable and converter, but once over that little hump its all good. Although most electronic music producers dont record a whole lot, for those that do and/or want the flexibility to when needed, this the ultimate no-brainer. In addition to that, there are 8 inputs, 8 outputs, two XLR connections as the mains out, and quarter inch dedicated timecode jacks. Although its a bit busy looking, this compact interface is just the right size to suit many-a-producers needs. If not, lets check out the pro-level ones. Its mic preamps are also not your common-or-garden designs: they use a topology called AXR that is employed in Yamaha's premium digital consoles, and offer a licensed recreation of the Rupert Neve Designs Silk circuitry for situations where intentional colouring of the sound is required. This audio interface ships with a light version of Cubase, which is another thing that makes it highly recommended to those who are just starting out. However, a newer version of the driver for your USB audio interface might be available on this page. The industry-leading converters used in the AXR4 series deliver exceptional quality audio, thanks, The AXR4 features extraordinarily natural-sounding hybrid microphone preamps, developed by Yamaha, Recording engineers have used microphone preamps designed by the legendary Rupert Neve for many, The AXR4 is compatible with all major audio editing, mastering, and music production software, Alongside its array of XLR and 6.3mm audio connections, the AXR4 features digital in/out ports, Word clock with SSPLL jitter reduction technology, The AXR4 uses robust SSPLL (Super Suppression Phase Locked Loop) technology, currently the most, By using Thunderbolt 2 technology, the AXR4T delivers very low latency and high CPU efficiency, a, SuperSpeed USB 3.1 with USB Type-C (AXR4U), The AXR4U features the USB 3.1 Gen 1 SuperSpeed standard, which provides fast, reliable and, Based on Steinbergs award-winning advanced music production system Cubase Pro, Cubase AI is a, Thanks to the built-in DSP chips including Yamahas custom-designed DSPX chip and dspMixFx AXR, The 276 is a stereo compressor that has enhanced numerous professional productions. Which audio interface is the best choice for music production right now? No more USB hubs, MIDI interfaces or mixers. It comes with a pretty intuitive interface that makes it easy for beginners in sound recording. If that isnt self-explanatory, desktop interfaces can sit on your desk, while rackmount requires a rack to screw the interface into. There are people on the Internet whose job is to review products. Heres how it works. Audio interfaces are ultimately judged on their sound quality and the AXR4 boasts some eye-catching numbers; up to 384kHz recording rates via 32-bit integer resolution. The dspMixFx AXR full matrix mixer allows for easy setup, routing and latency-free monitoring with effects with any DAW, with Cubase users able to control these features through a custom panel. Redesigned with top-of-the-line audio production in mind, Avid eliminated the need for clipping while you track hotter with the soft clip feature. A small selection of VSTs is also included. Steinberg AXR4T Audio Interface Review - Gemtracks Beats If you prefer, mixing and routing can alternatively be configured using a matrix window, as found in RME's TotalMix. This interface is easy to use and integrates the best audio components with flexible routing via the Maestro software. The vast array of connectivity options also allows quick and easy expansion of the recording setup, for example with additional mic preamps or outboard gear, and allows you to connect guitars, keyboards and other instruments or audio sources. Although the connectivity might be a little limited, it allows for a compact and portable audio interface that is easy to carry around. Unfortunately, MIDI connectivity is not included and you might want to look elsewhere if your MIDI device does not have a USB cable. This interface is one of those best-of-the-best interfaces, and will probably clock in at around $3500 (if the features are anything to go by). steinberg axr4 vs apollo Universal Audio Apollo Twin. Additionally, there are Play and Record buttons which control a built-in SD card slot. On the other side, it is quite easy to drop it off the table, as it is lightweight and small. I love my AXR4 - Steinberg AXR - Steinberg Forums Another great option from Focusrite. All Trademarks and Copyrights belong to their respective owners. Also, the 32-bit sample depth allows a theoretical maximum dynamic range of 192dB, 48dB more than 24-bit, but full volume is still full volume and so all thats really being achieved is to capture the analogue noise floor in greater detail. Operation can be configured directly from the front panel, via a combination of button presses and the rotary wheel (which doubles as a button to confirm data entry). In fact, your computer actually has one built-in.If youre just using headphones, chances are the built-in sound card that comes with your computer is all you need (unless its a high-impedance model, in which case an interface is necessary).The issue is, the built-in sound card in most laptops and desktops isnt ideal for recording instruments and vocals, or for playing sound through studio monitors. It is renowned, The Sweet Spot Morphing Channel Strip consists of a sidechain-enabled compressor and a three-band. AXR4 or Apollo UAD X6 for CUBASE Pro - Steinberg Lounge - Steinberg Forums AXR4 or Apollo UAD X6 for CUBASE Pro Steinberg Lounge computer-and-devices snlabrecque October 11, 2020, 3:38pm #1 Trying to decide between these two interfaces. It seems to be getting quite a bit of hype. For onboard effects processing, the AXR4T uses Yamahas DSPX chip, which includes the companys VCM (Virtual Circuit Modelling) technology. The AXR4's unglamorous but eminently useful dspMixFx software. Steinberg UR44 vs Universal Audio Apollo Twin: Review & Full Comparison Probably going to need more inputs.Need to output to multiple pairs of speakers? The front panel features an intuitive touchscreen where you can access all the settings including headphone output levels, clock, and configuration settings. This interface looks amazing, to be honest. The AXR4 ensures universal excellence for all recording applications. Well, yes, but its not as clear-cut as you may think. This audio interface also includes MIDI inputs and outputs, along with bundles of plugins and audio software that allow you to easily connect your MIDI instruments and start playing. Review: Steinberg AXR4T. Delivering, The EQ 601 combines the sound of a classic 1970s equalizer with a wide range of practical, The REV-X built into the AXR4 is a complex reverb algorithm developed by Yamaha. Please note: Due to possible compatibility issues with some Windows and Mac systems, we recommend to refer to our Knowledge Base article. AXR4 Updates and Downloads | Steinberg Certainly, the AXR4T captures and renders sound with exquisite accuracy, but the rest of your studio mics, cabling, monitors and so on needs to be of a similarly ultra-high specification if you are to have any chance of noticing any audible benefits from such extreme digital specs. Are you looking for a really inexpensive audio interface for beginners? So if you dont mind squinting, then the UFX II might end up on your rack. The SSL 2+ is a high-quality audio interface made by Solid State Logic. The 28 Best Audio Interfaces Money Can Buy (2023) - EDMProd Best Audio Interface - The Definitive List [2021 UPDATE] Life is easier if you choose to organise the AXR4 via software, though, within which a more traditional mixer arrangement provides intuitive assignment of levels, monitor effects, routing options and more via a dedicated control panel. You might know him from his personal or the many Steinberg YouTube channels where he often shares his music production and sound design tips. Equally, just as Apogees preferential status within Logic Pro X means its preamps can be configured per channel within Logics mixer, so Cubase users will love the immediate relationship they can enjoy with the AXR4, with per- channel channel strips directly controllable within Steinbergs DAW. Dont get me wrong, it makes it very portable! An audio interface with a rich sound filling your studio, integrated with remote control options and real-time effects. However, most consumer-grade (under $1500) interfaces are fine with pretty much any DAW. Find out more about how we test. Focusrite somehow keeps on delivering. Our team of expert musicians and producers spends hours testing products to help you choose the best music-making gear for you. The only physical buttons you can expect are the power button and a large rotary encoder placed at the center. A 384kHz sample rate allows accurate capture of frequencies up to 192kHz, but even the most sensitive human ear cant hear anything much above 22kHz. I think the form factor is much better due to the I/O section being on the back. To top it off, it even includes built-in talkback! The only definite advantage for the AXR4 comes if you use Cubase, which I presume you do. Featuring connectivity and facilities aimed at professional-level recording, including 32-bit integer resolution and a sample rate of up to 384 kHz, this premium audio interface significantly raises the bar. This audio interface comes at a surprisingly compact size that makes it truly portable! The only problem is that all these features come at a price that is pretty high compared to the previous audio interfaces we checked out. One of my personal favourites, the Scarlett 2i2 by Focusrite. For starters, the egornomic interface gives you two Thunderbolt ports, a BNC word clock and S/PDIF connectors for Coaxial connections. Apogee are renowned for their simple, elegant and beautiful interfaces. And call me old-school, but I like the inclusion of MIDI I/O, something thats a glaring omission with some other interfaces in this class. Price 2,227/2,599/$2,799 (exc. In practice this makes little difference, as the standard is fully backwards-compatible and many users still have older Macs with TB2 ports, but it's an odd decision to build a state-of-the-art interface with a deprecated connector type. Its probably because they tend to be more popular with traditional musicians rather than producers, but thats no reason to look past them. available since January 2020. Not only does it sound great, but its simple and affordable. It offers more stability than FireWire or USB. Find out more about the new functions and refinements of the update version 2 for AXR4. Once again, like with the 2i2, the 2i4 is a great first interface. Note:Allpriceswerecurrentatthe timeofwritingthisarticle. What about an audio interface that both looks good and does the job? What's more, the unit comes with a built-in power supply and a single chassis capable of hosting up to 6 modules. Enter your email below and get the guide (read by over 50,000 producers) along with two bonus resources. Also, I have an older PC . Did I mention the Acoustically Focused Clocking? Apart from using the front panel to configure specific settings, it comes with a Controller application to control the unit over software. This is a flagship audio-interface for professional engineers, songwriter, and producers. I hope you've got a good taste of these high-end products, and if you like it you can share or comment. While its quite pricey, the features on this are insane. The HD I/O 16x16 digital gives an all-digital interface. Again, up to 16 digital channels are available for playback. In addition to that, you get complete flexibility to expand the interface by installing the, HD I/O AD Option card that adds 8 high fidelity analog inputs, HD I/O DA Option for 8 more high fidelity analog outputs, and. Steinberg haven't gone down that route, and nor have they included any other massively multi-channel format such as MADI. The vintage design infused with 26 outputs and 32 outputs is sure to hit a cord in any musicians heart. However, the compact size allows for enhanced portability and it is perfect for musicians who like to record on the go. Inputs 1 and 2 can accept Hi-Z signals, so electric guitars and basses, MIDI equipment and any kind of studio equipment or playback device can all be used. But part of me is like, why not just go UAD and get extra control, for less $$$? This allows the engineer to customize mixes for each band member. The entire top panel is made of a metal mesh, which reveals an interior absolutely stuffed with components. To sum up, the Steinberg AXR4 is a must for professional sound engineers. The front panel has dedicated controls for Talkback mic, Dim or Mono functions, and Alt Speakers. The 18 Best Audio Interfaces of 2020 include: RME Fireface UFX II audio interface offers good monitoring of sound. If you want unparalleled audio quality in a sleek box, then you may as well settle for the Symphony Desktop. And possibly, with the emphasis on possibly, the preamps -- which by the way are not really advertised as full Neve or Portico preamps, although they have the Silk function which is nice to have. Ill be honest this is probably going to be my next daily driver in the studio. steinberg axr4 vs apollo - ASE This is very cheap for a rackmount interface with this many I/O options. Any difference in performance bettween these two versions? Fr mich ist das AXR4U mein absolut bisher bestes Audiointerface im Bezug auf Qualitt, Funktionalitt/Bedienbarkeit, Verbindungsstabilitt! Manufacturer-provided product description, urls and documents. The views expressed are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of the publishers. The Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 has been very popular with musicians and chances are that you have seen it in many home studios. This means you can control the audio interface using any mobile device. If your primary DAW is Cubase, then you might be looking for a highly compatible professional audio interface. For creative music professionals a wide range of connectivity options and great sound quality are crucial. With so much functionality on board, both the front and back panels of the AXR4 are inevitably crowded. This rejoices in the snappy title of dspMixFx AXR, and at the time of this review was available only for Mac OS, although the Windows version should be available by the time you read this. With the 32 channel mixer, you have a lot of routing and mixing options. Steinberg claim that their UR series is "considered by many to be the benchmark USB audio interface range". Learn how to master the fundamentals of electronic music production with the best roadmap for new producers, With 10 years of music production experience and some marketing chops, I head up the content here at EDMProd. However, that doesnt mean that a single unit doesnt feature adequate ins and outs! Oh, and it comes with a version of Pro Tools. With 32-bit converters, up to 384 kHz sample rate and an ultra-low noise floor, the AXR4 delivers the best sound quality currently available. Did we miss one youve heard of? First of all, audio interfaces are an indispensable tool for every sound engineer and musician that wants to record. Creating the AXR4 Audio Interface Series | Steinberg Oh, and if you want the best desktop interface money can buy, this is probably it. The AXR4 is a 2824 Thunderbolt 2 interface with four combo mic inputs, eight line inputs and outputs, and a pair of ADAT inputs and outputs that also can accommodate S/PDIF and AES/EBU connections. Product of the Week: Steinberg AXR4 Audio Interface - Mixonline To top their desktop line of interfaces off, the Quartet is a sight to behold. The AXR4Ts top-level creds are mightily impressive and it may seem self-evident that 32-bit/384kHz convertors will sound better than the 24-bit/192kHz format that is the current high-end benchmark. Stunning audio quality with ultra high-resolution recording rates and gorgeous preamps designed with Neves involvement. Ein echtes Hammer-Teil :-). Then let us know in the comments or drop me a line at [emailprotected]. You havent heard the real power of sound if you havent sampled HD I/O. We take a look at the newest addition to the family. Although these are pretty common features for a decent budget-friendly audio interface, Steinberg also included MIDI ports and a mono switch to top it off! 1 quarter-inch (only) input 2 quarter-inch output +48V Phantom Power Headphones Output Easy-access gain and output knobs on the top surface Signal indicator Desktop use Compact USB Powered Compatible with most major DAWs Recording software included Our Take Are you worried about its life expectancy if you plan to bring it with you everywhere? Steinberg AXR4 Prism Sound Atlas AVID | HD I/O Apogee Symphony I/O MK II Lynx Aurora (n) NI komplete Audio 2 Audient Evo 4 Steinberg UR22C Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 SSL 2+ Babyface Pro FS High End 1. In addition, 32-bit converters with up to 384 kHz sample rate and AXR hybrid mic preamps equipped with RND SILK processing are the ideal recording basis for any professional studio. Our team of expert musicians and producers spends hours testing products to help you choose the best music-making gear for you. Installation Guide for macOS 11 or newer (PDF), Installation Guide for macOS 11 or later (PDF). Steinberg USB Audio Interfaces at a glance, Display USB Audio Interfaces from $ 2000 - $ 2500, Go to product group Studio and Recording Equipment, Steinberg Studio and Recording Equipment at a glance, 32-Bit integer/384 kHz recording and playback, 4 x AXR hybrid microphone preamp with Rupert Neve Designs SILK emulation, SSPLL technology for extremely low jitter, DSPX chip and dspMixFx technology for latency-free monitoring with DSP-powered effects, 2 x Mic/Line/Instrument inputs: XLR/Jack 6.3 mm combo, 2 x Mic/Line inputs: XLR/Jack 6.3 mm combo, 2 x Stereo headphone outputs: 6.3 mm Jack, Dimensions (W x H x D): 480 x 45 x 378 mm, Includes Cubase AI with full 32-bit support, Available at short notice (usually 2-5 days), 4 The latter make it easy to daisychain the AXR4 with other gear. You get MIDI and World Clock ports, and two Thunderbolt connectors. The use of USB2 interface makes for easy connection for Mac, Windows, Linux among other OS. Et merci Thomann. Steinberg UR816C - Sound On Sound But before we check our options, lets take a look at what determines the price of audio interfaces. We can't guarantee correctness and completeness of all the data presented here, and therefore will not accept liability for any issues arising from usage of this data. Steinberg today announced the approaching release of the exceptional AXR4 Thunderbolt 2 audio interface, setting a new standard in audio interfaces for discerning engineers, producers, and professional musicians. Thanks to the FPGA technology, latency levels are almost NIL. Plus, the ability to combine up to 4 Apollos and a total of 6 UAD devices by allowing Thunderbolt users to expand their I/O and DSP. The AXR4 supports sample rates up to 384kHz, at word lengths of up to 32 bits, and employs a technology called Super Suppression Phase Locked Loop to deliver supernaturally low levels of jitter. So if youre an experienced producer with the money to spare, this is your interface. The advanced SSPLL jitter reduction technology guarantees perfect sync of all connected devices. Connecting capabilities The AXR4 features four Neutrik combo inputs and two individual headphone outputs on the front side. The AXR4 is equipped with exceptional hybrid mic preamps featuring switchable RND SILK emulation, which can accommodate any kind of microphone. Also, Thunderbolt is currently at version 3, which means youll need a 50-plus converter to hook up an AXR4T to an up-to-date computer. The solid chassis houses the greatest AD/DA technology out there. Yep, you bet.Apart from being super sexy, the duet is a very intuitive and fully-featured interface for those of you on macOS. However, Steinberg is also really good at making audio hardware, such as the Steinberg UR22C. Steinberg: AXR4 Thunderbolt 2 Interface - Tape Op All of the I/O (other than the AES3 channels) is on full-size connectors, though there is minimal clearance in between the quarter-inch jacks on the rear; and although the front-panel display is small, it's bright, colourful and clear, and capable of metering all 28 inputs and 24 outputs (at base sample rates) at once. Of course, more can be useful depending on your needs.Need to record a full drum kit? If these options have you overwhelmed, chances are youre probably a new producer and dont know what to choose. The digital I/O ports support ADAT and S/PDIF formats. I won't go through the AXR4's front-panel setup options in detail, partly because life is too short and partly because they are all duplicated in its control-panel utility. Like Universal Audios Apollo range, effects hosting (a bundled effects suite is provided by Yamaha) is processed on the AXR4s internal chips, removing the load from your computers CPU. STEINBERG AXR4 | Hi-Res Audio Interface with RUPERT NEVE SILK - YouTube