IK Multimedia have announced the launch of the AXE I/O ONE, an audio interface designed specifically for guitar and bass players that offers a similar feature set to the company’s larger AXE I/O devices in a smaller and more affordable package, and also comes bundled with a software package that includes AmpliTube 5 SE and TONEX SE.
The interface is equipped with a single input that employs a JFET input stage that promises to deliver a warm valve-like tone, and also utilises IK Multimedia’s Z-TONE technology, which allows users to adjust the device’s input impedance to provide the best match for their instruments pickups. Both active and passive pickups are catered for, with a dedicated top panel switch In addition to the instrument input, the AXE I/O ONE will also accept microphone signals (and is capable of delivering phantom power) via a three-pin XLR, allowing the interface to be used to capture vocals and acoustic instruments.
A pair of balanced line-level outputs are provided on quarter-inch TRS sockets, and are joined by a quarter-inch TS Amp Out socket which can be used to connect to a guitar amplifier for either direct monitoring or re-amping purposes, as well as being used in conjunction with the input to carry out the Tone Modeling process with the company’s TONEX software. A headphone output is also provided on an additional quarter-inch TRS socket on the front panel of the device.
Top panel controls are present for a range of parameters including input gain, the Z-TONE variable impedance, headphone volume and master output level, and latency free monitoring during recording is facilitated by a dial that allows users to blend between their DAW output and interface input signals.
MIDI connectivity is provided by a pair of five-pin DIN sockets, allowing the interface to communicate with floor controllers or the company’s iRig Stomp I/O device, and it is possible to connect two expression pedals or footswitches to enable hands-free control over parameters in the included software packages. A USB-C socket offers connectivity to a host computer, and the device operates using bus power, and so does not require a separate power supply.
In addition to its physical controls, the AXE I/O ONE also comes with a Control Panel software application that provides control over all of its key parameters as well as allowing users to configure input and output routing. A Controller tab then provides access to the functionality of connected expression pedals and footswitches, which can be assigned with the MIDI channels and CC numbers needed to control any software or connected equipment.
Pricing & Availability
The AXE I/O ONE is available now, priced at $129.99€129.99.
