Feature:
I wish it has the same number of outputs as well as inputs. But nevertheless, you can always chain another 1814 or just get an ADAT to expand the I/O to 8 more (Alesis AI-3, or the Behringer ADA8000).
Other than that, the firewire maudio control panel is not very difficult. I find it a lot easier than the interface my audiophile 2496 had.
Quality:
Great quality, I run mics, guitar, line-ins and even turntables into this card and so far they sound great.
Again I stress, use good quality cables and make sure you have a stable system. M-Audio drivers are not bad, the card is a true working horse. Reason for the bad reviews below is because they are not doing something right. I don't usually have any serious trouble with any m-audio products and when I do, it's because windows is screwing something up. So if you know your work around windows too, then you should be able to squeeze some good juice out of this card. (hint: Tweak your windows for music workstation purposes, lots of stuff on the internet for this). ELSE GET A MAC and or learn how to get your PC on the ball!!
Value:
cheap, this card was very affordable and I was considering getting another.
Desirability:
It looks great, every time I have a guest come in, they instantly eye the 1814. I love how it boots with the flashy lights, it makes me really happy.
Sound:
Most of the bad reviews before is mostly because of unstable systems.
I run a very stable dual core system, 2GB's of RAM and raid SATA drives. The 1814 is flawless and runs perfect with no sound imperfections. Also, I use shielded cables for all my audio. So I avoid a lot of noise thanks to high quality cabling.
Ease of Use:
Took it out of the box, installed it, fired Nuendo and voila! I was cooking!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Support:
Never called them because why? never had a problem :P
Overall:
I would never replace it, not until way way later into the future, as long as there is continued support of the product for future OS. So far there are no Vista drivers available, but maudio is definetly working on it. I dont have the need to upgrade yet anyway, but down the road, I most likely will. As soon as the vista drivers come out, I will probably upgrade my OS. But like I said, not until god knows when, I am sure I am keeping the 1814 for many years to come.
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