Alesis Announces The IO|14 FireWire Audio/MIDI Interface

Jan 20, 2006

Alesis, the world's leading manufacturer of electronic musical instruments and studio equipment, announces the introduction of its new IO|14 FireWire Audio / MIDI interface. Fully compatible with PC and Macintosh computers, the IO|14 incorporates Wavefront Semiconductor's state-of-the-art DICEII FireWire Audio chip for the ultimate in digital audio connectivity, support for upwards of 14 channels of audio, S/PDIF and ADAT digital inputs, plus a built-in 16-channel MIDI interface—everything needed for the software-based musician/ home recording enthusiast.

Featuring a compact, elegant tabletop form factor, the IO|14 provides generous I/O support for the home recording studio environment and can be powered via the FireWire bus or via an included AC adapter. The IO|14 offers 4 analog mic/line inputs on "Combo" connectors with Phantom power and insert jacks—facilitating the connection of high-quality cardioid condenser microphones or stereo TRS (tip-ring-sleeve) devices. And with the ability to patch signal processing equipment directly into the signal path of each channel via the channel inserts, musicians have everything they need to contour the input signal precisely to their liking.

For digital I/O, the new IO|14 makes multichannel recording easy. With ADAT optical input capability, the IO|14 provides support for as many as 8 channels of ADAT digital audio—depending upon the selected sampling frequency (8 channels at 44.1 and 48 kHz; 4 channels at 88.2 and 96 kHz). Additionally, the unit's 2-channel, 24-bit S/PDIF connector (RCA) makes it easy to integrate CDR, DVD-R, and other digital equipment into the system. Further, the IO|14 provides a switchable high impedance input on channels 1 and 2 for integrating guitars and basses—enabling the IO|14 to accommodate a wide range of input signals.

On the unit's rear panel, the IO|14 provides 2 balanced line outputs (quarter-inch TRS) in addition to the S/PDIF output—providing 4 channels of output capability. The MIDI In and Out connectors also reside here, enabling the unit to integrate a substantial arsenal of MIDI sampling and sequencing equipment. All I/O on this versatile interface is balanced / 24-bit—with support for 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, and 192kHz sampling frequencies. And with its two FireWire ports, the Alesis IO|14 provides easy connectivity to personal computers while also enabling additional FireWire devices (such as hard drives or DVD-R) to be cascaded via the second port.

For monitoring signals, the IO|14 provides five-segment signal/clip LED ladders on each input. With provisions for two headphone outputs—with individual level control—the new IO|14 is a comprehensive audio/MIDI solution for musicians.

Completing the package, the Alesis IO|14 ships with a copy of Steinberg's Cubase LE digital audio workstation software, plus demo programs from various industry-leading virtual instrument manufacturers.

With a suggested retail price of just $499, Alesis' new IO|14 provides the right combination of audio and MIDI I/O capability and integrates easily into any desktop recording environment. The new IO|14 will be available Q2 of 2006.