Presonus AudioBox Go USB Audio Interface
The award for smallest, lightest and most portable interface goes to the new Presonus AudioBox Go. It has a "footprint" size two, stacked packs of cigarettes yet there's everything you need to record and monitor in stereo up to 96kHz/24-bit audio.
The AudioBox GO is powered over its USB-C connection (a USB-C to USB-A cable is included) and no drivers are required. I put it right to work for a Zoom meeting with no hassle at all!
The AudioBox has two inputs: input 1 is a combo mic/line XLR and input 2 is a dedicated 1/4-inch Instrument jack. I plugged in my Microphone-Parts S-87 condenser kit mic, turned on the phantom power and then plugged in a Martin Grand J-16E 12-string with a Fishman Matrix acoustic guitar pickup into Instrument input 2. Along with a Mac laptop, this is an outstanding rig ready to record into any DAW anywhere.
The two inputs use PreSonus’ proprietary XMAX-L mic preamps and I liked that the pair of balanced 1/4-inch TRS balanced outputs on the rear panel could easily drive my IK Multimedia iLoud MTM Reference monitors plus the front panel headphone jack worked well for my Austrian Audio Hi-X65 headphones.
All controls on the AudioBox Go's miniature front panel are simple and intuitive to use; there is a single speaker volume knob and separate controls for: headphone level, Inputs 1&2 gain, a Mix/Live cross fader for zero latency monitoring, and 48-volt phantom on/off.
The Presonus AudioBox GO is a great way to get everything you need to record at a professional level in one, easy-to-carry, small and compact place. It comes with PreSonus’ Studio One®Prime recording software and the Studio Magic suite collection of virtual instruments, and effects plug-ins. The AudioBox GO sells for $79.95 MAP.
