Swissonic Audio 1

The Swissonic Audio 1 is a "two-in/two-out" audio interface with a sample rate of 192kHz and a 24-bit dynamic resolution that supports USB 2.0 connectivity and delivers studio-quality results. The first input features an XLR socket for microphones, which also has switchable 48V phantom power to allow condenser microphones to be used. The second input in turn features a 6.35mm jack socket for line and instrument signals, and this input's sensitivity can be adjusted using the adjacent Hi-Z button. Each channel is equipped with a dedicated input gain control and peak LED indicator to allow the input level to be correctly adjusted, and the output level can be controlled using the large master volume control. A 6.3mm headphone output with its own volume control is also provided for monitoring via headphones, and the rear panel additionally features two 6.3mm line outputs for monitor speakers as well as a 3.5mm input for connecting a smartphone or tablet computer.

The Swissonic Audio 1 is connected to a PC or laptop via USB-B connector and gives the user a choice of three recording modes, which can be selected using the "Rec Source" switch on the rear of the interface. The user can thus record the signals coming in via one or both channels, a mix of channel input and DAW playback, or an audio stream from a computer programme (e.g. gaming audio) using the loopback setting. Provided that a USB 2.0 interface is available, the interface is compatible with PCs running Windows 7 or newer (32 and 64-bit systems are both suitable) as well as Mac systems. The Swissonic Audio 1 is USB powered and therefore does not require a separate power adapter. A suitable USB cable is of course included in the scope of delivery, however.

The Swissonic Audio 1 gives beginners an audio interface with all of the functions they need as they take their first steps into the world of recording and streaming, including direct monitoring and loopback recording. And since this interface is primarily aimed at beginners, it has been designed to provide maximum ease of use (and avoid the risk of confusion). The Audio 1 is thus ideal for users who don't necessarily need to record two microphone or instrument signals simultaneously as well as for streaming basic interview situations, which also makes it a good first purchase for users on a limited budget who are looking to get into streaming or podcasting. The Swissonic Audio 1 is an equally interesting proposition for singer-songwriters who want to record guitar and vocals simultaneously and use their DAW to edit the recordings).

When a singer-songwriter wants to make a recording, all they need to do is connect a condenser microphone to the first input on the Swissonic Audio 1 and then switch on the phantom power, then plug their electroacoustic guitar into the second channel, activate the Hi-Z function, then finally set the interface to "CH 1-2" mode, and they are ready to record the signals going to both channels simultaneously. Users can also record themselves playing/singing along to a backing track from their computer - or karaoke sessions - using the "Mix" recording mode. And last but not least, users can set the Audio 1 to "Loopback" mode if they wish to integrate the audio signal from their computer software into the recording.