Focusrite’s iTrack Solo dual-input audio interface is actually two interfaces in one. It is a USB 2.0 audio interface that works for both your Mac or PC up to 24-bit/96kHz and it also functions as an iOS audio interface for Apple’s iPad and iPhone. The iTrack Solo comes in an all-aluminum cabinet that’s slightly smaller than the Scarlett 2i2 USB interface and borrows that unit’s clever halo indicators that surround the two input level control knobs. The halos are for simply setting the correct level in green and warn of possible over level when they turn red.
I tested the iTrack Solo using three different DAWs: Pro Tools HD 10.2 Accel on OS X 10.6.8; as an interface running at 96kHz the latest update of Wavemachine Labs’ Auria on iPad; and Sonoma Wire Works’ FourTrack app (44.1kHz 16-bit) on my iPhone 4S. Other iOS Apps like GarageBand are also supported.
I found the iTrack’s functionality to be the same in all three systems: super easy to make two-track recordings. It’s stable and produces a great sound for both the recording inputs and the stereo monitoring outputs. The mic pre-amp (same as used in the Liquid Saffire 56 and Scarlett interfaces) has plenty of gain when using old ribbon or vintage dynamic microphones with typically low output. The high impedance 1/4-inch direct input worked well when recording piezoelectric pickups or my Fender Strat’s passive pickups.
I’m impressed! iTrack Solo is a great idea for the on-the-go songwriter, musician or voice-over artist who want to record in high quality anywhere and rely on those recordings to be master-ready quality later in the studio. The iTrack Solo sells for $159 MAP. Check out http://us.focusrite.com/itrack-solo for more information.
