29 April 2008 @ 14:19Belkin TuneStudio now shipping

Belkin began shipping their 4-track mixing console, the TuneStudio, earlier this month, and Macworld took the opportunity to review one.

The TuneStudio is a four-channel audio mixer allowing for digital recording directly onto an iPod at 16-bit 44.1kHz quality in uncompressed WAV format for crystal clear audio. Recorded items can be played back instantly. Audio can be streamed though the built-in USB interface to and from a PC or Mac. TuneStudio also works as an external sound card, allowing input and output of audio to a PC from its connectors. Jam sessions can be easily recorded by simply attaching instruments and microphones to the TuneStudio. Podcasters can use the TuneStudio to record their shows either in studio or on location. Each channel has a 3-band EQ and pan and level controls. High-quality Phantom-power-enabled XLR inputs provide up to 60db of microphone gain and a high-quality stereo compressor with makeup gain enhances audio dynamics and keeps audio levels within the recording limits of the iPod. Compression is controlled by a single knob. The TuneStudio features LEDs to indicate master audio level, power status, peak indications, and compressor.

So, what did Macworld conclude in their review of the Belkin TuneStudio?

The TuneStudio is an affordable and reasonably-portable solution for those interested in limited live recording of a couple instruments or for sketching out ideas. Its ability to record to an iPod rather than requiring a tethered computer will be appreciated by those who lack a laptop (or don’t want to have to tote it to every session). If its limitations are, in your opinion, no limitation at all—you don’t require scads of channels, multi-channel output, or MIDI—it could be a useful audio companion.

You can buy the Belkin TuneStudio at the following merchants:
Amazon.com
Buy.com
SHOP.COM

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