Tascam US-HR Audio Interfaces: Zero Latency Monitoring, USB-C, Low Noise and Hi-Res Audio
Tascam has expanded its family of audio interfaces with three models: US-1x2HR, US-2x2HR and US-4x4HR. The novelties are designed for use in home studios, podcasting (for this, there is a feedback function and support for Open Broadcaster Software – OBS Studio) or Internet broadcasting, which are increasingly popular in a pandemic.
All three models are compatible with iOS, adding Steinberg Cubase LE audio recording and processing software (including Cubasis LE3 for use with iPhone or iPad), complemented by IK Multimedia’s Sample Tank SE 4 with a 30GB sound library. In addition, each interface comes with a 3-month subscription to Antares’ Auto-Tune Unlimited vocal processing software.
Direct monitoring with zero latency is possible with each of the new products, and the use of a USB-C connection will allow the two younger models to do without separate power supplies. All three interfaces support audio resolutions up to 24 bit / 192 kHz. The devices will allow you to mix music from your Windows or Mac computer, and updated Windows drivers provide ultra-low latency, according to the manufacturer.
The onboard Ultra-HDDA microphone preamplifiers have reduced the signal-to-noise ratio on the microphone-to-computer line to 110 dB. The XLR inputs are ready to provide phantom power to condenser microphones, and up to 57dB of gain will make it work with inexpensive dynamic microphones.
The youngest of the new products, US-1x2HR, has microphone and instrument inputs, and headphones are provided. The US-2x2HR model is equipped with two inputs, the use of which can be selected from three options: microphone, line, instrument. The connection is complemented by two balanced line outputs, a headphone output, and MIDI input and output.
The US-4x4HR 4-channel audio interface is an extended version of the Tascam US-4×4 model. Two of its four inputs can be directly connected to guitar or bass, and all four XLR inputs can be used as mic or line. The US-4x4HR interface has two headphone jacks and MIDI switching.
The bodies of the new Tascam US-HR products have received cast aluminum side panels, which slightly raise the front of the device for ease of operation.
In the UK, prices are expected at £115 for the US-1x2HR, £155 for the US-2x2HR and £235 for the US-4x4HR. These models have not yet gone on sale.
