Product Description The Fast Track Ultra 8 x 8 audio/MIDI interface takes M-Audio's acclaimed mobile recording line to the next level with high-speed USB 2.0 connectivity, MX Core DSP mixer and four preamps with award-winning Octane technology. Featuring both analog and digital I/O, it allows recording on all eight channels simultaneously with pristine 24-bit/96kHz fidelity--while M-Audio's mature low-latency drivers ensure rock-solid stability and performance. The on-board MX Core DSP mixer processes eight hardware inputs and eight software returns to the eight hardware outputs, delivering flexible routing and monitoring with delay and reverb. Compatible with most major audio software, Fast Track Ultra lets you record the way you want--in the studio or on the go. The next generation of mobile recording interfaces has arrived--the Fast Track Ultra features high-speed USB 2.0 technology for advanced performance. Like FireWire, USB 2.0 delivers the bandwidth for 24-bit/96kHz audio resolution throughout the recording and monitoring process. The increased data speed lets you enjoy exceptional fidelity on all of your inputs and outputs simultaneously. Tired of tracking vocals and instruments dry? Fast Track Ultra features MX Core DSP technology that gives you reverb and delay on the headphone outputs with separate sends for every channel. Adding effects is an easy way to inspire creativity and infuse a performance with new energy--without taxing your CPU resources.Tired of tracking vocals and instruments dry? Fast Track Ultra features MX Core DSP technology that gives you reverb and delay on the headphone outputs with separate sends for every channel. Adding effects is an easy way to inspire creativity and infuse a performance with new energy--without taxing your CPU resources.

M-Audio have broken a price barrier with their Firewire 410, which is easily the most affordable Firewire recording interface on the market.

For a long time, Firewire audio peripherals have been available only at the semi-pro end of the market, with eight or more inputs and outputs, and price tags to match. Always a company to spot a niche,  which nevertheless uses the Firewire protocol to offer far more simultaneous channels than could be supported by the USB 1.1 format.As its name suggests, the Firewire 410 provides four inputs and 10 outputs. These comprise two analogue mic/instrument/line inputs and eight analogue line outputs, plus stereo digital ins and outs in both co-axial phono and Toslink optical formats. Recording is available at up to 24-bit/96kHz, with stereo playback at up to 24-bit/192kHz on the first two outputs, or 24-bit/96kHz if using all eight outputs. A MIDI In and Out are also provided. This configuration is designed for basic stereo recording while offering the option of routing discrete outputs to an analogue mixer or other outboard gear to add further EQ or effects, or for connection to a surround sound system. I suspect quite a few mobile recording enthusiasts might also like to see the opposite approach — a Firewire 104 with eight inputs for band recording, and a basic stereo output for monitoring.