Tascam US144 USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface

It may be one of our most affordable USB audio interfaces, but don't let the low price fool you. The Tascam US144 is a serious digital recording interface. Packed with all the features you'll need to start recording into your computer, the US144 is also built to last, and with up to 24-bit 96 kHz conversion resolution, it sounds great, too.

Multitrack Recording From Any Source
With an array of input options, you'll be able to track just about any source you'd ever need. The two XLR inputs are optimal for connecting microphones, and because they supply a full 48 volts of phantom power, you can even hook professional studio condenser mics directly up to the US144. Because the unit is powered from your computer's USB port, that means you can even use phantom-powered mics as part of a portable setup with your laptop. In addition to the XLRs, you get a pair of 1/4" analog line inputs for connecting samplers, drum machines and keyboards, and those inputs can be switched to "Hi-Z" to accommodate electric guitars and basses. If you like to use amp modeling plug-ins to keep the neighbors from complaining, the Tascam US144 is the perfect interface! And if you're addicted to MIDI sequencers, drum machines, synth sound modules and other fun toys, you'll be able to easily integrate them into your computer setup, thanks to the US144's MIDI input and output ports.

S/PDIF For Digital Inputs
The US144 ups the input ante by including a fully digital S/PDIF input/output section. If you want to expand your setup, these digital I/O ports will let you hook up field recorders, external mic preamps, digital mixers, master CD burners, and other professional-grade digital recording equipment. The Tascam US144 is the core of an expandable home studio.

Direct Monitoring Makes For Perfect Overdubs
because the US144 is designed with a direct monitoring option, you'll be able to record layered overdubs that are always in perfect sync. How does direct monitoring work? When listening to playback from your computer, the "armed" record tracks will always have a certain level of latency. That's because the input signal needs to travel to your computer, where it's processed by the CPU, and then back up to the Tascam's output section. The direct monitoring signal never travels to the computer, so you'll be listening to exactly what you're playing, in real time. Direct monitoring lets you truly play along with previously recorded tracks, making every multitrack project sound more professional. Plus, the US144 offers separate outputs to headphones and monitors, letting you switch between cans and reference monitor speakers without unplugging anything. This smart addition also makes it easier to avoid feedback through your monitors from a connected and record-ready microphone. Anyone who has dabbled in home recording even a little will be happy about that little feature.

A Complete Recording Package With The Tascam LaunchPad Starter Pack!
With the Tascam US144 as your computer recording hub, you're still going to need some additional equipment to start recording. that's where the Tascam LaunchPad Starter Pack comes in! An amazing value, the LaunchPad bundle includes a high quality Tascam Fox microphone for recording, and a pair of Tascam HPVT1 headphones for detailed monitoring and mixing. The Fox microphone was designed for Tascam by MXL, and it's perfect for recording vocals, electric guitars, and many other sources. . . and it's built to be abused, making it great addition to your mobile Tascam-laptop recording rig.

The Tascam US1212L works on both Windows- and Mac OSX-based systems, so no matter what computer you have, you'll be able to turn it into a recording studio simply by adding the US144! The interface even ships with a working copy of Cubase LE, so you'll be able to get to work on your recording masterpiece right away. What are you waiting for? Have zZounds send you a Tascam US144 today!

Record two tracks at a time with zero latency; whether you have a PC or a Mac, your song ideas go down in real time, real easy. Its size means you can take it anywhere you take your laptop, yet it's packed with features that make buying it an audio no-brainer. MIDI input and output, high quality mic inputs, 96kHz/24-bit recording (better than CD quality)-all the stuff you'd want without the fluff you wouldn't. The US-144: the answer to your recording needs.

Features:
2 XLR mic inputs with phantom power

S/PDIF Digital Input & Output

2 analog line inputs (1 switchable to high impedance for use with guitars, basses, etc.)

1 MIDI input, 1 MIDI output

USB 2.0 equipped (also supports USB 1.1)

Up to 96kHz/24-bit for high quality recordings

Zero-latency hardware monitoring

Separate headphone output & level controls

Bus powered for use with any PC or Mac, including laptops

OS Supported: Windows XP and Vista, Mac OS X 10.4-10.5

Tascam LaunchPad Starter Pack information
LaunchPad - The Tascam recording kit includes headphones, cables and a microphone to help musicians start recording at an affordable price. Since revolutionizing home recording 25 years ago with the Portastudio, the name TASCAM has become synonymous with creative home recording. The LaunchPad is the ideal accessory for musicians to start recording with their TASCAM DP01 Digital Portastudio, cassette Portastudio or USB computer interface.

Included in the LaunchPad are a pair of TASCAM HPVT1 studio-quality headphones and a TASCAM microphone designed by MXL, whose mics have found their way into a number of studios and hit songs. It also includes a mic clip, mic pouch and cable so you're ready to record right out of the box. The TASCAM LaunchPad is the ultimate mic & headphone kit for passionate musicians.