TEST: IK Multimedia iRig Pro

 With the iRig Pro, the company IK Multimedia is bringing a small interface onto the market which, in contrast to many other competitors, can also process low-impedance microphone signals in addition to high-impedance instrumental solutions. In addition to the classic notebook, the primary area of application for the tiny device is once again the iOS armada of the bitten apple from the USA, which, thanks to powerful processors and gigabites of storage space using pads, pods and phones, has long since overtaken all other pocket-sized mobile recording solutions.

In order not to offend ambitious users, easy handling and self-explanatory product guidance are essential. In addition, the device should not exceed the external dimensions of the recording medium so that an additional transport medium does not have to be used. I prefer to put the whole thing together in a slightly more opulent hardware bag or, in winter, spread it over two side pockets in the new outdoor jacket. Sounds transportable, right?



construction

Since the computer replaced the analog recording process with tapes of all kinds, the user has had to deal with the problem of converting his analog signal into zeros and ones. If you don't want to deal with the internally installed mini jack sockets, which are completely inadequate in practice, you have to look for an external solution, usually based on USB. Admittedly, compared to an official 6.35 millimeter jack socket or even an long for water in the oasis like someone dying of thirst.

The iRig Pro fills this gap, as it clearly specifies the partner of its choice in the product naming and shows the operating systems from Seattle along with the mobile Androids the red card. In return, IK Multimedia has to bow to Apple's arbitrary choice of connectors and pay horrendous license fees for Lightning and 30-pin connector cables. Blessed is whoever has the monopoly. Interestingly, the product is not developed and manufactured in Asia as usual, but in the Italian company's home country.

When it comes to size, you are truly in the land of pockets. With the dimensions (WxLxH): 32 mm x 105 mm x 21 mm and a weight of 40 grams, you have just the approximate dimensions of half a cigarette pack, which is enough to install all the necessary elements of the iRig Pro. Lying on the back, the case is supported by four tiny feet, which prevent it from lying flat, but unfortunately do not prevent slipping on smooth surfaces due to the plastic mixture being too hard. The rest of the workmanship of the housing is good, the plastic is easy to grip and the hinges and sockets are neatly installed.

A combination socket allows both XLR and mono jack signals as input sources. The device has two special features that are rather exceptional in this product class. On the one hand, the input signal can be managed in terms of voltage using a large gain control, and on the other hand, 48V phantom voltage can be switched to the socket using a slider on the side. This means that condenser microphones can also be used without their own power supply, which massively increases flexibility in terms of application. It is powered by an internally placed 9V battery, which should preferably be an alkaline battery. By the way, the gain control is pleasantly stiff, making it difficult to accidentally adjust the input signal.

There is also a mini jack socket opposite the phantom power slider, which enables MIDI synchronization. All cables (USB - serial, Lightning - serial, 30-pin - serial and mini jack - MIDI) are included with the interface. Oh yes, there is also a 9V battery on top. In order to equip the user with the necessary software, IK Multimedia includes the AmpliTube, VocalLive, SampleTank and iGrand Piano programs for iOS in the product; for OSX, AmpliTube Metal, T-RackS and SampleTank XT are included.



Practice

As expected, the adjective “handy” is the first thing that pops up when you take the product out of the packaging. The adjective “uncomplicated” can be used to accompany the word “handy”. It really couldn't be easier, just connect the iRig Pro to the iOS device and it works! Driver installations on the Mac or in the iOS area and the use of additional applications are completely eliminated.

At the same time, this means that if things have to happen quickly, a recording setup for high demands can be set up in under a minute. Anyone who travels to trade fairs as a racing reporter, for example, will appreciate this feature. The sound of the iRig Pro can be considered balanced, pleasant, or neutral. The treble range is reproduced well without excessive sharpness. The midrange is also neutral, a relief compared to the notorious bathtub presets of many competitors.

There can be different opinions about the use of the three-color LED (green / orange / red) as a level indicator. A real LED chain cannot replace the selective information, especially since you quickly leave the range from green (too low) to orange (optimal) to the detriment of red (clipping). With an instrument that varies a lot dynamically, such as an undistorted guitar, a mismatch can quickly occur at the beginning, as the peaks tend to absorb the headroom of the product when played appropriately. So be careful with the pre-amplification. However, after a short training period you get used to the handling.

The use of condenser microphones must be acknowledged as a clear strength. The selection of small interfaces that allow the operation of large diaphragm microphones is more than clear, so the iRig Pro fills a gap that the user will gratefully accept. It is finally possible to use high-quality microphones in nomadic operation and to generate attractive recordings even with spatial flexibility.

This means that different setups can be generated depending on the area of application. Whether you want to conserve creativity in combination with your iOS device or present ideas during a presentation, the product's flexible connection options mean there is a wide range of areas of application available. I can spontaneously think of solo entertainers, whether with a MIDI keyboard or guitar, who are looking for a suitable supporting program for their performance. Vocal microphone and keyboard connected to the iRig, Garageband switched on, done. Or an electric guitar and the corresponding controller managed via AmpliTube, also quite nice. Not to forget the pure singer who wants to work to a pre-made playback and prefers to work with a minimum of cable layers.


Conclusion

With the iRig Pro, IK Multimedia has brought a high-quality mini-interface onto the market at an attractive price. In addition to its compact dimensions, the Italian product is particularly impressive because of its ability to use high-quality studio microphones using phantom power. In addition, line instruments, as well as MIDI events, can be managed via the combination socket via a separate MIDI input.

Especially in the iOS sector, where the compactness of the recording medium is a crucial criterion, the iRig Pro manages to combine its minimal dimensions with a comparatively large sound. A comprehensive software package and a wide selection of Apple-compatible cables, which would normally cost half the purchase price, round off the very good overall impression.

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Additional Informations:

IK Multimedia, a pioneering company in the realm of music production and audio technology, has revolutionized the way musicians create, perform, and record music. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a global leader in music software, hardware, and accessories, the journey of IK Multimedia is a testament to innovation, passion, and dedication to artistic expression.

**Founding Years:**

IK Multimedia was founded in Modena, Italy, in 1996 by Enrico Iori and Davide Barbi. The company initially focused on developing software and hardware solutions for computer-based music production, targeting musicians, producers, and audio engineers seeking affordable and accessible tools to enhance their creative workflow.

**Breakthrough Products:**

One of IK Multimedia's earliest breakthrough products was the T-RackS mastering software, released in 1999. T-RackS quickly gained recognition for its intuitive interface, powerful audio processing capabilities, and affordability, establishing IK Multimedia as a formidable player in the digital audio market.

In 2003, IK Multimedia expanded its product portfolio with the introduction of AmpliTube, a groundbreaking guitar amp and effects modeling software. AmpliTube revolutionized the way guitarists approached recording and performing, offering an extensive array of virtual amplifiers, cabinets, and effects pedals that faithfully replicated the tones of iconic analog gear.

**Strategic Partnerships:**

Throughout its history, IK Multimedia has forged strategic partnerships with industry giants and iconic brands to expand its product offerings and reach new audiences. Collaborations with companies like Fender, Marshall, and Orange resulted in the creation of officially licensed virtual guitar and bass amplifiers, providing users with access to the signature tones of legendary amplifiers within the AmpliTube ecosystem.

Furthermore, IK Multimedia partnered with renowned artists and producers, including Slash, Joe Satriani, and Brian May, to develop signature gear collections and presets for AmpliTube, catering to the specific sonic preferences of these influential musicians and their fans.

**Diversification and Innovation:**

In addition to software, IK Multimedia diversified its product range to include hardware solutions designed to complement its software offerings. The iRig line of mobile audio interfaces, microphones, and MIDI controllers provided musicians with portable and affordable tools for recording, performing, and practicing on the go, leveraging the power of smartphones and tablets as music production platforms.

The company continued to innovate with the introduction of iLoud, a series of portable Bluetooth speakers and studio monitors that combined compact design with pristine audio quality, catering to the needs of musicians, producers, and content creators working in a variety of environments.

**Expansion into Mobile and Streaming:**

Recognizing the growing influence of mobile devices and streaming platforms in the music industry, IK Multimedia developed apps and services tailored to the needs of modern musicians. Products like iRig Recorder and AmpliTube UA brought professional-quality recording and guitar processing capabilities to smartphones and tablets, empowering musicians to capture and create music anytime, anywhere.

Furthermore, IK Multimedia embraced the shift towards subscription-based streaming services with the launch of T-RackS Custom Shop, a platform that allowed users to access and purchase individual modules and processors within the T-RackS software suite, offering greater flexibility and affordability.

**Community Engagement and Education:**

Throughout its journey, IK Multimedia has remained committed to engaging with its community of users and fostering musical creativity and education. The company hosts workshops, webinars, and online forums where musicians can connect, collaborate, and learn from industry experts and fellow enthusiasts. Additionally, IK Multimedia provides educational resources and tutorials to help users get the most out of its products and unlock their creative potential.

**Future Outlook:**

As IK Multimedia continues to evolve and innovate, the company remains dedicated to empowering musicians of all levels to express themselves and realize their artistic visions. With a diverse range of software, hardware, and accessories designed to meet the needs of modern music creators, IK Multimedia is poised to shape the future of music production and performance, inspiring a new generation of musicians to push the boundaries of creativity and sonic exploration.

In conclusion, the history of IK Multimedia is a testament to the transformative power of technology in music, as well as the passion and dedication of its founders and employees to empower musicians and enhance the creative process. From its pioneering software solutions to its innovative hardware offerings and strategic partnerships, IK Multimedia has left an indelible mark on the music industry, redefining the possibilities of music production and performance in the digital age.