NAMM Update: M-Audio, a leading provider of creative tools for computer-centric musicians, is proud to announce the new Fast Track Pro mobile audio/MIDI interface for use with PC and Mac computers. The Fast Track Pro builds on the success of its sibling, the Fast Track USB, adding even more professional features.
The Fast Track Pro features 4 x 4 audio I/O at 24-bit/44.1kHz fidelity, with routing controlled via the host application or M-Audio’s time-tested software control panel. The unit offers two mic/instrument preamps on front-panel Neutrik connectors (XLR/1/4” TRS), each with gain control, signal/clip LEDs, pads and ¼” TRS inserts for external processing. The front panel also presents a master volume control and ¼” stereo headphone output with dedicated volume control.
Rear-panel analog outputs include a pair of ¼” TRS balanced jacks and two pairs of RCA unbalanced jacks. The two output pairs can be connected to a DJ mixer for use with the front-panel A/B source switch for DJ-style cueing. Alternately, users can drive two sets of monitors or simultaneously feed a mix-down device while monitoring.
The rear panel of the Fast Track Pro also houses S/PDIF I/O on RCA connectors, ideal for digital transfers or external effects loops. MIDI In and Out jacks work in conjunction with the USB connection to provide integral USB MIDI interface functionality.
Fast Track Pro also features near zero-latency direct hardware monitoring with mono button and input/playback mix control. Users can also record while monitoring software effects via low-latency ASIO software monitoring.
Fast Track Pro can be powered via its USB bus connection for mobile use. Alternately, it can derive power from the optional AC power supply for use with a hub or as a standalone DI box.
The unit is compatible with WDM, ASIO 2, and Core Audio, making it work with most popular music software. It operates on both PC and Mac platforms, and is class-compliant on Mac OS X 10.3.9 or higher. (Class-compliancy supports 2 x 2 operation. Driver installation is required for additional I/O.)
Fast Track Pro also ships with Ableton Live Lite 4 real-time production software and GT Player Express virtual guitar rig software.
“The Fast Track USB has been an extremely successful entry-level product for us,” says Adam Castillo, marketing director at M-Audio. “The Fast Track Pro adds more features like dual phantom-powered mic preamps that more advanced users demand. It packs everything you need for solo or duo production into an extremely compact and cost-effective unit.”
The Fast Track Pro is expected to ship in August at an MSRP of $249.95.
