British pro-audio manufacturer, Audient showcased their new ASP880 eight-channel microphone preamplifier and ADC— the first product to be released since Simon Blackwood (formerly of Focusrite, Turbosound and Spirit) acquired the company at the end of 2013.
The ASP880 shares some key features with the ASP008 that we reviewed in 2006, such as eight of Audient’s renowned console mic pres, variable input impedance (to complement a range of mics including ribbons) and variable high-pass filters. The ASP880 has two JFET DI instrument inputs, Burr-Brown converter technology and fits into a single rack unit. The unit can operate at sampling rates up to 96kHz across all eight channels using two SMUX ADAT ports connections, and can also generate AES and S/PDIF output.
Chief Technical Officer Tom Waterman explains, “Listening to feedback from Audient users has been essential. As a result, we worked closely with David Dearden to develop a brand new eight channel mic pre combined with the latest Burr-Brown converter technology to ensure the best sound quality throughout.”
“ASP880 is the perfect front end to any DAW system” says Waterman, “We wanted to ensure ASP880 competes with the best mic pres and converters out there, and in doing so giving users the option to upgrade their existing setup by bypassing their interface’s analogue stage and A/D. The results are stunning!”
Each channel has a balanced insert with direct access to the converter so the ASP880 can be used as an 8-channel mic pre and a standalone converter. “We know how important integrating outboard gear is to our customers,” explains Waterman, “That’s why the ASP880 has eight balanced inserts – perfect for integrating your outboard EQ’s and compressors!”
The ASP880 is set to cost £899/€1099 and should be available now.
