TEST: IK Multimedia iRig Pro HD

The mobile man! I remember how I dragged my Tascam Portastudio 244 in a specially made flight case to the rehearsal room and back almost 30 years ago and was of the firm opinion that it would not be more comfortable in terms of mobile recording technology. Old guys like me can only smile about these thoughts today, colleagues of younger age will probably not be able to understand the name Portastudio for a long time.

What has happened in mobile recording technology can be easily explored by anyone with the necessary search terms, but some manufacturers tend to outdo each other in features and control options in the smallest space, which often degenerates into completely overloaded menus on tiny displays.

The Italian company IK Multimedia, on the other hand, consistently takes a different approach with its iRig series by accommodating high-quality technology with minimal control options in the smallest possible space and leaving the preservation of the signals to the DAW. For the test, we have the latest offspring of the company, the IK Multimedia iRig Pre HD, which enters the race for the first time with a maximum sample rate of 96 kHz and with a retail price of less than 100 euros.


Design and features of the IK Multimedia iRig Pre HD

The IK Multimedia iRig Pre HD is a very small USB audio interface designed specifically for microphone operation. With dimensions of 40 mm x 110 mm x 34 mm and a weight of only 75 grams (without batteries), it really fits in any jacket pocket. In contrast to the iRig Pro series, which still has 4 small rubber feet for the purpose of a slip barrier on smooth surfaces, the IK Multimedia iRig Pre HD relies on an attachment to the microphone stand by means of a narrow strip of Velcro tape, which is fed from behind through two narrow slots on the battery cover.

Sounds cheap, unfortunately it is. Of course, you don't want to ruin the dimensions of your product with tightly mounted clamps, but there are definitely more professional solutions for a tight fit here. The housing is made of plastic and was painted in matte black. The Velcro strap, which is designed as a cable tie, unfortunately turns out to be fiddly in use and does not fit tightly, rating failed.

The accessories also include a USB cable for connecting to the computer, as well as a mini USB-Lightning cable. IK Multimedia does not make a big deal out of its Apple affinity, but Android users can access an optional USB cable if needed. In addition, 2 AA batteries are included and there are corresponding download links to the iRig Recorder and VocaLive apps.


Power supply and connections of the IK Multimedia iRig Pre HD

As expected, the IK Multimedia iRig Pre HD receives its operating voltage via the included USB cables, i.e. PC or iPhone / iPad. The included German-made AA batteries are only used for 48 V phantom power, which is required by condenser microphones. The associated On / Off switch is located on the side of the housing. How long the operating time of the two batteries in phantom mode, I could unfortunately not find out. While the sister models from the pro series have to be operated with a 9V block, it should not be a problem financially to carry a spare pair of batteries.

Since the IK Multimedia iRig Pre HD was only designed for microphone operation, there is also only one XLR jack on the bottom of the case. Here, the microphone signal can be set to Direct Monitor mode via another switch on the side of the case.

The internally installed microphone amplifier works in Class A technology and has a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz according to the manufacturer. The gain is controlled via a small level control wheel on the side of the housing. A multi-color LED on the top of the housing acts as a visual control, which indicates the signal strength from blue (too low level) to green / orange (optimal level) to red (clipping!).

The front side, on the other hand, houses the USB connector as well as the connection of a 3.5 mm mini-jack, to which headphones can be connected. The headphone amplifier has a power of 100 mW at 50 ohms, which will be important later in the practical part.


The IK Multimedia iRig Pre HD in Practice

The minimalist concept of the IK Multimedia iRig Pre HD has advantages and disadvantages, which are in the nature of things. On the one hand, the risk of operating errors is comparatively low and allows even beginners to quickly access a vocal or voice recording. On the other hand, the lack of a volume balance control between the playback and direct signal means that there is a risk of incorrect leveling of the incoming signal. To what extent this can become a problem is of course in the hands of the user, one should just not make the mistake of declaring the product as a pure "beginner's product" due to its dimensions and ease of use.

According to the manufacturer, the preamplifier has a gain level of up to 40 dB. This value can be described as practical as long as you stay within the large pool of common dynamic and condenser microphones. However, if you are working with unusual microphones, such as ribbon microphones or older dynamic microphones, it is possible that the catch-up amplifier will break down before an adequate working level is reached. In this case, it is important to weigh up and try out in advance whether the intended combination seems promising.

There is also a consideration in advance regarding the use of the headphone amplifier. Headphones in the lower and mid-range price segments are usually offered in low-impedance versions and can be operated with the IK Multimedia iRig HD's internal headphone amplifier at sufficient volume without any problems.

In the high-end of the studio headphone segment, however, you also come across representatives with an ohm number of up to 600 ohms from time to time. Here the headphone amplifier comes to its limits and will probably not be able to produce sufficient volume. On the other hand, these representatives are also in the studio anyway mostly operated with their own special amplifier, so that the question of use does not arise at all.

Sonically, the components preamplifier, converter and headphone amplifier leave a good impression. Starting with the preamp, which has a very low noise floor and is pleasantly impulse resistant. The product can't generate the highest sound culture, but it would be presumptuous to expect this at a two-digit price. A bit of thinning can be heard in the bass and the resolution in the treble range is merely "decent", but as I said, who would blame the Italian-made product.

A significant difference in a 96 kHz recording can be heard in a direct comparison, especially in the high-frequency range, but it remains to be seen whether this will come through later in a regular mix. The more subtle and discreet the music to be preserved, the more the HD range makes sense, the more the noisy "bully guitarists" take the reins, the more you can forget about the HD range.



Conclusion

With the IK Multimedia iRig Pre HD, the Italian manufacturer has a high-quality miniature vocal interface on the market for a very attractive price. In addition to its compact dimensions, the product impresses in particular with its simple and intuitive handling, which even recording novices can quickly grasp.

By using 2 pcs. AA batteries, you can also build up the phantom power, which is indispensable for condenser microphones, which gives the flexibility a massive push forward. In combination with a device of the iOS class or after purchasing a separate cable also in the Android universe, you have the possibility to perform microphone-based recordings with the minimal equipment microphone - cable - iRig - cable - device - headphones, wherever the muse kisses you.

Additional informations:

IK Multimedia is a renowned technology company that specializes in developing innovative music production tools and software. Since its inception in 1996, IK Multimedia has been at the forefront of the music industry, providing musicians, producers, and audio engineers with cutting-edge solutions for their creative needs. With a diverse range of products and a commitment to quality and innovation, IK Multimedia has established itself as a leader in the field of music technology.

Company History: IK Multimedia was founded in Modena, Italy, by Enrico Iori and Davide Barbi. The company initially focused on software development and digital signal processing for the music industry. In 1997, they introduced their first product, the T-RackS analog mastering software, which quickly gained recognition for its high-quality audio processing capabilities.

Over the years, IK Multimedia expanded its product portfolio to include hardware and software solutions for recording, mixing, mastering, and live performance. Their dedication to innovation and collaboration with industry professionals has allowed them to create products that meet the evolving needs of musicians and audio engineers.

Product Range: 3.1 Software: IK Multimedia offers a wide range of software products designed to enhance music production. Their flagship software includes AmpliTube, a powerful guitar and bass amp modeling suite, and SampleTank, a comprehensive sound library and virtual instrument platform. These products provide musicians with the ability to achieve authentic sounds and emulate classic gear in a digital environment.

Other notable software offerings from IK Multimedia include T-RackS, which provides professional-grade mixing and mastering tools, and Syntronik, a collection of meticulously sampled vintage synthesizers. Additionally, IK Multimedia offers software for mobile platforms, such as iOS and Android, enabling musicians to create music on-the-go.
3.2 Hardware: In addition to software solutions, IK Multimedia manufactures a range of hardware products designed to complement their software offerings. Their hardware lineup includes audio interfaces, MIDI controllers, microphones, and speakers. These devices are engineered to provide high-quality audio capture, precise control, and accurate monitoring, catering to the needs of both studio and live performance environments.

Notable hardware products from IK Multimedia include the iRig series, which offers portable audio interfaces and controllers for mobile devices, and the AXE I/O series, which provides professional-grade audio interfaces tailored for guitar and bass recording.
Industry Partnerships: IK Multimedia has established strategic partnerships with prominent companies and artists in the music industry. Collaborations with renowned gear manufacturers such as Fender, Orange, and Ampeg have allowed IK Multimedia to incorporate the iconic tones of their amplifiers into their software products. These partnerships ensure that IK Multimedia's software accurately replicates the sound and feel of revered gear, providing musicians with a realistic and versatile recording experience.
Additionally, IK Multimedia has collaborated with notable artists and producers, including Joe Satriani, Slash, and Steve Vai, to create signature products that cater to the specific needs and preferences of these musicians. These partnerships further demonstrate IK Multimedia's commitment to delivering innovative solutions that meet the demands of professionals.

Awards and Recognition: IK Multimedia's dedication to excellence and innovation has earned them numerous awards and accolades. Their products have received recognition from industry-leading publications and organizations, highlighting their impact on music production. Some notable awards include the TEC Award for Outstanding Technical Achievement, MusicTech's Gear of the Year, and the MIPA Award for Best Mobile Music Making App.

Conclusion:

IK Multimedia has emerged as a trailblazer in the music technology industry, consistently pushing the boundaries of what is possible in music production. With a diverse range of software and hardware solutions, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to quality, IK Multimedia continues to empower musicians, producers, and audio engineers worldwide.