Audient Introduces Flagship 8-Channel Audio Interface iD48
With 24 inputs and 32 outputs via USB-C the iD48 provides flexibility for multi-mic recording,
external processing, and advanced monitoring applications
Audient has unveiled its latest flagship product, the iD48, an 8-channel, 24-in/32-out
USB-C audio
interface. Building on the success of the iD Desktop Interface Range, the iD48 introduces expanded
I/O capabilities and cutting-edge technology designed to meet the needs of professional producers
and engineers.
Meeting Industry Demand with Expanded I/O
Audient's Product & Marketing Director, Andrew Allen acknowledged the overwhelming demand for an
8-channel version of their popular iD interface range, stating:
"Since we launched the iD Desktop Interface Range, our customers have been shouting for us to
deliver an 8-channel iD audio interface, so we are extremely excited to announce that it is finally
here. iD48 is the ultimate Audient interface, building on the core feature set that has made the iD
range so popular, delivering astonishing audio performance alongside an incredibly intuitive user
experience, but this time with more than enough I/O to handle any session."
Audient Console Mic Preamps and Advanced ESS Conversion
At the heart of the iD48 are eight Audient Console Mic Preamps, renowned for their ultra-low noise
and low distortion performance. These preamps deliver up to 68dB of gain, incorporating the same
discrete high-grade op-amp design found in Audient's ASP8024-HE recording console.
Allen emphasised the authenticity of these preamps, noting:
"With iD48 we guarantee real analogue Audient Console Mic Preamps on your desktop - no copies, no
emulations and no gimmicks."
To further enhance the audio path, the iD48 leverages cutting-edge 32-bit ESS converter technology,
ensuring minimal quality loss during conversion. This high-resolution conversion provides an
impressive 126.5dB of dynamic range on the DACs, capturing subtle sonic details with exceptional
clarity.
Revolutionary Switchable Analogue Insert Technology
A standout feature of the iD48 is its Switchable Analogue Insert technology, allowing seamless
routing of audio sources for outboard integration. This innovation introduces a new level of
flexibility by enabling users to select the source feeding the ADC path - either the Audient Console
Mic Preamp or a DAW output - without the need to physically re-patch cables.
Describing this advancement, Allen stated:
"For the first time ever, iD48's Switchable routing enables you to select which source is feeding
the ADC path. Letting you choose the Audient Console Mic Preamp or a DAW output to send to your
outboard on a per channel basis - no fussing with cables. You can also bypass the Audient Mic Preamp
altogether for a direct conversion path for recording."
This switchable insert functionality makes outboard processing faster and more intuitive, ensuring a
streamlined workflow for complex sessions.
Expandable I/O Options for Future-Proofing
The iD48 is designed to grow alongside its users, offering a range of expandable I/O options to
adapt to evolving studio requirements. It supports ADAT, S/PDIF, and SMUX protocols, allowing the
addition of up to 16 channels of external mic preamps. This expandability makes the iD48 an ideal
choice for demanding multi-mic recording sessions.
Allen highlighted this future-proofing aspect:
"iD48 is designed to grow with our users, offering the option to add more inputs and outputs via
ADAT, S/PDIF or SMUX - future-proofing your studio and giving you the ability to take on demanding
multi-mic sessions with ease."
Professional Monitor Control and Headphone Amplification
In addition to its capabilities as an audio interface, the iD48 doubles as a fully featured monitor
controller, providing comprehensive monitoring options. Users can connect both main and alternate
speaker outputs or route audio to an external headphone amplifier for artist distribution.
The interface is equipped with two independent stereo headphone amplifiers that deliver 124dB of
dynamic range and support high-impedance headphones up to 600 Ohms. This ensures accurate monitoring
and a high level of control during tracking and mixing sessions.
Ultra-Low Latency Direct Monitoring and iD Mixer Compatibility
The iD48 integrates seamlessly with iD Mixer, Audient's proprietary control software, which
facilitates ultra-low latency direct monitoring and intuitive session management. Through the iD
Mixer, users can create stereo cue mixes, adjust routing, and save custom layout presets. This
functionality enhances workflow efficiency and makes managing complex sessions more intuitive.
Designed to Handle Any Session
With its comprehensive feature set, the iD48 delivers the performance and flexibility demanded by
modern studios. It combines professional-grade mic preamps, advanced conversion technology,
versatile I/O expansion, and intuitive monitor control in a single, streamlined package.
Summarising its capabilities, Allen concluded:
"iD48 is the ultimate Audient interface, building on the core feature set that has made the iD range
so popular, delivering astonishing audio performance alongside an incredibly intuitive user
experience - but this time with more than enough I/O to handle any session."