M-Audio
Executive Summary
M-Audio, a business unit of inMusic Brands, is a renowned company that designs and markets a wide range of audio and MIDI interfaces, keyboards, MIDI controllers, synthesizers, loudspeakers, studio monitors, digital DJ systems, microphones, and music software. Founded in the late 1990s by Tim Ryan, an engineer and graduate of the California Institute of Technology, M-Audio has established itself as a leading manufacturer of high-quality audio products. With independent offices in the US, Canada, UK, Germany, France, and Japan, M-Audio has a strong global presence and is committed to providing innovative solutions for music production and audio professionals. The company's history dates back to the late 1990s when it was founded as Music Soft, which was later changed to Midiman due to Yamaha Corporation already owning the rights to the Music Soft name. Midiman's first product was the Midiman, a MIDI-to-tape recorder synchronizer, but it was the Syncman and Syncman Pro VITC-to-LTC/MTC converters that experienced mainstream success. The company's growth and success led to the introduction of new products, including the Flying Cow and Flying Calf A/D / D/A converters, and the 4-input, 20-bit DMAN 2044 audio interface. In the year 2000, Midiman introduced the Delta Series PCI audio interfaces and rebranded its audio products as M-Audio. This move marked a significant milestone in the company's history, as it expanded its product line and established itself as a major player in the audio industry. Today, M-Audio is a leading brand in the music production and audio professional markets, known for its high-quality products and innovative solutions.Architecture & Design
M-Audio's products are designed to provide high-quality audio solutions for music production and professional audio applications. The company's audio interfaces, such as the M-Track Plus, feature 24-bit audio and MIDI interfaces with adjustable sample rates up to 48 kHz. These interfaces also have separate gain knobs and mic/line/guitar switches for each input, as well as balanced inputs and outputs. The M-Track Plus also features a combination XLR and balanced 1/4" input, with phantom power delivering 48V to the XLR inputs for use with professional condenser microphones. The design of M-Audio's products is focused on providing a compact and user-friendly format that is ideal for any user. The M-Track Plus, for example, can easily transform a laptop into a mobile studio, accommodating any input from an electric guitar to a condenser microphone. The interface also features coaxial S/PDIF, per channel inserts, and dedicated MIDI connectors, further extending its versatility. A single USB cable provides both power and a data connection to and from a laptop or desktop computer. M-Audio's products also feature low latency monitoring of the input signal, which can be provided through speakers or via headphones. A monitor mix knob adjusts the balance between the direct inputs and the playback from the computer software. Additionally, input signals can be monitored in stereo or mono, and the headphone output features a dedicated level control. The unit also supports sixteen channels of MIDI data and timing information, with the MIDI in and MIDI out jack compatible with all MIDI equipment.Performance & Thermal
The performance of M-Audio's products is characterized by their high-quality audio resolution and low latency. The M-Track Plus, for example, delivers studio-grade 24-bit/96 kHz audio resolution in a compact and friendly format. This makes it an ideal solution for music production and professional audio applications where high-quality audio is required. However, the thermal performance of M-Audio's products is not publicly disclosed. The company does not provide information on the thermal design power (TDP) or heat dissipation of its products, which may be a consideration for users who plan to use the products in high-temperature environments or for extended periods.Market Positioning
M-Audio's products are positioned in the market as high-quality audio solutions for music production and professional audio applications. The company's products are designed to provide innovative solutions for audio professionals, and its brand is recognized as a leader in the industry. The pricing of M-Audio's products varies depending on the specific product and its features. The M-Track Plus, for example, is priced at $149 USD, which is competitive with other audio interfaces on the market. However, the company does not provide information on the pricing of its other products, which may be a consideration for users who are looking for a specific solution.Verdict
In conclusion, M-Audio is a leading brand in the music production and professional audio markets, known for its high-quality products and innovative solutions. The company's products, such as the M-Track Plus, are designed to provide high-quality audio solutions for music production and professional audio applications. While the thermal performance of M-Audio's products is not publicly disclosed, the company's products are recognized for their high-quality audio resolution and low latency. Overall, M-Audio's products are a good choice for users who are looking for high-quality audio solutions for music production and professional audio applications.Specifications
| Interface | 24-bit audio / MIDI interface |
|---|---|
| Features | Stereo, 24-bit inputs/outputs |
| Price | $149 USD |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the sample rate of the M-Track Plus?
The sample rate of the M-Track Plus is adjustable up to 48 kHz.
Does the M-Track Plus have phantom power?
Yes, the M-Track Plus has a phantom power switch that delivers 48V to the XLR inputs.
What is the price of the M-Track Plus?
The price of the M-Track Plus is $149 USD.
Is the M-Track Plus compatible with MIDI equipment?
Yes, the M-Track Plus is compatible with all MIDI equipment and supports sixteen channels of MIDI data and timing information.