General
If we look back over the last few decades, plenty of audio interfaces litter the scene, most largely identical, while only a handful of models really stand out. Due to the proper studio quality of the preamps, the Audient iD is included in that handful, which isn't all that surprising, since Audient still builds big, hulking studio desks, like the ASP4816. The iD Series interfaces were an immediate hit, leaving studio producers all over asking for a rack-mountable edition. Thankfully, Audient was listening, and their impressive response is the iD48.
The Audient iD48
As mentioned, the preamps and the overall signal quality of this interface is fully studio worthy. The front panel also comes fitted out with two guitar/bass inputs and two headphone outputs while, around the back, you'll find eight XLR/jack combi ports plus four TRS outputs. Since two sets of ADAT I/O are also included in the line-up, the number of both the inputs and outputs can be expanded by adding extra ADAT preamps, for a maximum of 16 extra inputs and 16 extra outputs. Another welcome detail is the inclusion of two DSUB ports for using external preamps and re-amping.
Why So Many Inputs?
With the ADAT option on board, that brings the total possible inputs up to 24. Why would you need that many? With 24 inputs on your side, the individual drums and overheads of a full kit are covered - both the resonant heads and the batter hands. Those 24 inputs can also take on full band recording - and not just a three-piece band, but a multi-member band, maybe with a stack of four synths running - which would eat up 8 of those inputs on its own. This kind of potential will also work in your favour on stage as well as in the recording studio. Without the included set of rack ears, this interface can comfortably slot inside your average backpack and, with the ears, can slot seamlessly into any 19 inch studio rack.
