Enhance Your Audio Experience with Avid Mbox 3 Pro
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Overview of the Avid Audio In Box Pro
- Features of the In Box Pro
- All-metal Construction
- Improved Mic Pries
- Front and Rear Inputs
- Soft Limit Circuitry
- Analog Segmented LED Metering
- Multi Button Function
- Universal Phantom Power
- A/B Headphone Mix
- Dim and Mute Controls
- Mono and Speaker Select Switches
- Rear Panel Inputs and Outputs
- Mic and DI Inputs
- Inserts
- Line Level Inputs
- Auxiliary Inputs
- Outputs
- Firewire Inputs
- DC Input and Multi-Pin Connector
- Additional Features
- DSP Engine and Reverb Plugins
- Sample Rate Compatibility
- Dynamic Range and Headroom
- Conclusion
A First Look at the Avid Audio In Box Pro
The Avid Audio In Box Pro is the flagship model in the new In Box 3 line, boasting a sleek all-metal construction that exudes durability and solid build quality. With a weighty feel and an attractive design, this audio interface stands out from the crowd. Building upon the success of its predecessors in the In Box series, the In Box Pro offers a range of similar features, including improved mic preamps and versatile connectivity options.
Features of the In Box Pro
All-metal Construction
The In Box Pro is built to last, thanks to its robust all-metal construction. This ensures that it can withstand the rigors of Studio use, making it a Durable and reliable choice for audio professionals.
Improved Mic Pries
One of the standout features of the In Box Pro is its improved mic preamps. These preamps offer pristine audio quality and low noise, allowing for crystal-clear recordings. Whether You're capturing vocals, guitars, or any other instrument, the In Box Pro delivers exceptional sound reproduction.
Front and Rear Inputs
The In Box Pro offers flexible input options, with XLR/quarter-inch combo jacks on the front for channels 1 and 2. These inputs can accommodate both microphones and instrument direct inputs (DI). Additionally, there are line inputs on the rear panel for added convenience.
Soft Limit Circuitry
Featuring the same soft limit circuitry as the renowned Pro Tools HD converters, the In Box Pro ensures that your recordings won't suffer from unwanted digital distortion. This feature provides an extra layer of protection for your audio signals, maintaining their integrity even during high-volume recording Sessions.
Analog Segmented LED Metering
Monitoring your input levels is a breeze with the analog segmented LED metering on channels 1 through 4. This allows you to keep a close eye on your levels and make adjustments as needed, ensuring optimal recording quality.
Multi Button Function
The In Box Pro introduces the new multi button function, offering enhanced control over various aspects within the accompanying software. This versatile button can be assigned to perform actions such as punch-ins, providing a convenient way to streamline your workflow.
Universal Phantom Power
With the universal phantom power button, the In Box Pro can power any condenser microphones across all four channels. This eliminates the need for external power supplies and simplifies your setup.
A/B Headphone Mix
The A/B headphone mix feature of the In Box Pro allows you to Create independent mixes for two different headphone sets. This is ideal for collaborative recording sessions or when you need to monitor your audio from multiple locations.
Dim and Mute Controls
The In Box Pro is equipped with dim and mute switches, providing quick access to essential control functions. By engaging the mute switch, you can Instantly silence your main monitors and switch to headphones, ensuring privacy during tracking sessions.
Mono and Speaker Select Switches
For accurate mix balancing, the mono switch on the In Box Pro sums the stereo output to mono. This allows you to identify any imbalances in your mix easily. Additionally, the speaker select switch enables you to switch between multiple sets of monitors or auxiliary inputs effortlessly.
Rear Panel Inputs and Outputs
The rear panel of the In Box Pro houses a range of inputs and outputs, expanding its versatility and connectivity options.
Mic and DI Inputs
Channels 1 and 2 on the rear panel feature XLR mic inputs, providing additional input flexibility. These inputs can be used simultaneously with the front inputs, allowing for multiple recording setups.
Inserts
The In Box Pro offers inserts on each of its four channels. These inserts allow you to integrate external effects processors, such as equalizers or compressors, into your signal chain with ease. This allows for greater control and creative possibilities during recording and mixing.
Line Level Inputs
To accommodate line-level signals, the In Box Pro features balanced quarter-inch inputs on the rear panel. This allows you to connect external devices like drum machines or synthesizers directly to the interface, expanding your Sonic palette.
Auxiliary Inputs
Channels 5 and 6 on the In Box Pro offer auxiliary inputs in the form of unbalanced RCA or a stereo ⅛-inch input. These inputs are perfect for connecting devices like iPhones or other audio sources, providing additional flexibility in your recording setup.
Outputs
The In Box Pro features six quarter-inch line-level outputs, allowing for the connection of up to three sets of speakers. This is ideal for A/B monitoring during mixing or when working with surround sound setups. Additionally, the DSP software mixer enables the creation of 5.1 surround sound mixes.
Firewire Inputs
The In Box Pro provides firewire inputs for seamless connectivity to your computer. This allows for high-speed data transfer between the audio interface and your recording software, ensuring low-latency performance and a smooth recording experience.
DC Input and Multi-Pin Connector
Powering the In Box Pro is as easy as connecting the included power supply to the DC input on the rear panel. The multi-pin connector handles various functions, including MIDI in and out, S/PDIF in and out for digital audio, and BNC word clock syncing.
Additional Features
DSP Engine and Reverb Plugins
In addition to its powerful recording capabilities, the In Box Pro features a built-in DSP engine. This engine not only allows for the creation of custom cue mixes but also includes built-in reverb plugins for adding ambience to your recordings. This saves valuable CPU resources and streamlines your workflow.
Sample Rate Compatibility
The In Box Pro boasts a maximum sample rate of 192 kHz, providing exceptional audio fidelity. While Pro Tools LE is limited to a sample rate of 96 kHz, other digital audio workstations that support 192 kHz can fully utilize the capabilities of the In Box Pro. This high sample rate ensures that your recordings capture every nuance and Detail.
Dynamic Range and Headroom
With a great dynamic range and ample headroom, the In Box Pro delivers professional-grade audio quality. Its updated clear preamps allow for transparent and accurate signal reproduction, ensuring that your recordings sound pristine and true to the source.
Conclusion
The Avid Audio In Box Pro is a feature-laden audio interface that offers exceptional build quality, versatile connectivity options, and professional-grade sound reproduction. Whether you're a seasoned audio professional or a home studio enthusiast, the In Box Pro provides the tools you need to capture and create high-quality recordings. With its robust construction, improved mic preamps, and comprehensive feature set, the In Box Pro is a worthy addition to any studio setup.
Highlights
- Solid all-metal construction for durability
- Improved mic preamps for exceptional audio quality
- Front and rear inputs for versatile recording setups
- Soft limit circuitry for distortion-free recordings
- Analog segmented LED metering for precise level monitoring
- Multi button function for enhanced software control
- Universal phantom power for condenser microphones
- A/B headphone mix for flexible monitoring options
- Dim and mute controls for quick access to essential functions
- Mono and speaker select switches for accurate mix balancing
- Inserts for integrating external effects processors
- Line level inputs and auxiliary inputs for expanded connectivity
- Six line-level outputs for A/B monitoring or surround sound mixing
- Firewire inputs for low-latency performance
- Built-in DSP engine and reverb plugins for added functionality
- High sample rate compatibility for detailed recordings
- Great dynamic range and headroom for professional-grade sound quality
FAQ
Q: Can the In Box Pro be used with Pro Tools LE?
A: Yes, the In Box Pro is compatible with Pro Tools LE. However, it is important to note that Pro Tools LE is limited to a maximum sample rate of 96 kHz, while the In Box Pro is capable of supporting a sample rate of up to 192 kHz.
Q: Does the In Box Pro require external power supplies?
A: The In Box Pro is powered via a DC input on the rear panel, and a power supply is included in the package. Simply connect the power supply to the In Box Pro, and you're ready to start recording.
Q: Can I use external effects processors with the In Box Pro?
A: Yes, the In Box Pro features inserts on each channel, allowing you to integrate external effects processors like EQs or compressors into your signal chain. This provides greater control and creative possibilities during recording and mixing.
Q: Can the In Box Pro be used for surround sound mixing?
A: Yes, the In Box Pro supports 5.1 surround sound mixing. With its six line-level outputs and the DSP software mixer, you can easily set up a surround sound monitoring system for precise mixing and mastering.
Q: What is the purpose of the multi button function?
A: The multi button function on the In Box Pro can be assigned to perform various actions within the software, such as punch-ins during recording. This provides quick and convenient control over your workflow.
Q: Is the In Box Pro compatible with MIDI devices?
A: Yes, the In Box Pro features a multi-pin connector on the rear panel that handles MIDI in and out functionality. This allows you to connect MIDI devices to your setup and integrate them seamlessly into your recording and production process.