New from NAMM 2012, Akai EIE audio interface

New product from NAMM 2012

Akai's EIE (Electronic Interface Expander) just arrived in the shop. This audio interface is designed with the electronic producer in mind, hence the name.

With artist winning Grammy’s by producing albums entirely from a laptop some plug-ins, and a controller, the EIE is a perfect match for today’s generation of super-producers.

Features:

First off the EIE is built like a tank (no cut corners in the material department) and features a 3-port USB hub on the back of the interface. This was a smart move

on Akai's part, and as far as we know the first interface of its kind. This is great for MAC users who are limited to just 2 USBs on their laptop, and avoids the extra mess

of buying a USB hub.

The front of the interface features Analog VU meters, which for producers is "butter" to accurately see the output meter of your master output. It also features 4 XLR / 1/4" combo jacks to input your instruments, mics, or DJ setup.

The back of the interface features 4 audio 1/4" outputs (great for multiple monitor setups) and 4 audio 1/4"  inserts (great for MPC users who want to track i.e.: drums, bass, melody, & ect. at once and multi-track them simultaneously). As well as midi in & outs.

Product Testing:

We ran the EIE in Ableton Live 8 Suite with an original style Macbook Pro (2.3 ghz Intel Core2Duo, 4gb ram, 120gb HD). We got the USB Buffer (sample rate) down to 167 samples with a 0.7 ms latency, which is really good.

With the bulk of newer interfaces using DSP audio for direct monitoring with no latency, the EIE comes in surprisingly fast. So if you need to track vocals, your vocalist can monitor their voice with no latency.

The mic-pres sound extremely good, and having the analog VU meter is a nice addition to seeing accurate levels.

Overall:

With a MSRP of $299.00 US, you can’t beat the quality, build, and sound of this interface. If you’re an upcoming electronic producer and need low latency, crisp audio quality, expandability, and a USB hub. This is the interface for you.

Visit us at the shop to pick up yours today! Astro AVL 6615 San Fernando Rd. Glendale, CA 91201 (818) 549-9915 or visit our ebay store @ http://www.astroavl.com/.

- Davey Rockit, Astro AVL LA’s Original DJ Shop