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M-Audio MobilePre USB Interface with Microphone Preamp

MobilePre USB is the perfect audio interface and preamp for your laptop recording needs. A total of three kinds of audio inputs and outputs provide maximum flexibility for any application-including two on-board microphone/instrument preamps and high-impedance instrument inputs ideal for connecting guitars and basses. Learn More...

    • New $129.95
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Overall User Ratings

Overall:
* * * * * * * . . . 7 out of 10
Features:
* * * * * * * * . . 8 out of 10
Quality:
* * * * * * * * . . 8 out of 10
Value:
* * * * * * * * * . 9 out of 10
I Want It:
* * * * * * * * . . 8 out of 10
Sound:
* * * * * * * . . . 7 out of 10
Ease of Use:
* * * * * * * * . . 8 out of 10
Support:
* * * * * * * * . . 8 out of 10

Individual User Ratings

Overall:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Features:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Quality:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Value:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
I Want It:
* * * * * * * * . . 8 out of 10
Sound:
* * * * * * * * * . 9 out of 10
Ease of Use:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Support:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10

Feature:
((These are on the back of the preamp))USB port, 2 outputs [L & R], Stereo line, 2 inputs [Stereo mic & Channel 2 instrument/line], 2 MXL mic inputs Ch1 & Ch2. ((These are on the front of the preamp)) Channel 1 Ins/line, 2 Gain controls for Ch1 & Ch2, Headphones input and the volume control. I only use the Channel 1 MXL input for my mic and the headphones input when recording so I know that the vocals are superb with the preamp. I cant really be a judge on using instruments on it but im still giving it a 10.

Quality:
Very durable so i never had problems with it.

Value:
Yes the value is incredible for the performance the preamp gives most definitely!! I returned my first one for a cheaper one and I regretted that decision BIG TIME!!! I ended up returning the one I had exchanged for for a used MobilePre USB and im still satisfied with the preamp.

Desirability:
Its not really sexy but who cares about the looks?? its the inside that counts!!

Sound:
Dont believe the other previews cuz I dont think they dont know what they're doing.......seriously!! This preamp gives you an excellent sound and is clear like fresh spring water. So your recording really depends on the kind of mic you have. I now use the AT3035 and my tracks sound like they were created in an actual studio.... I use my acoustified bedroom to record!! Check out my finished works USING THE MOBILEPRE USB INTERFACE on my myspace page to judge: myspace.com/bigextrael. Note: the only thing I dont like about the preamp is that when I use the Channel 1 MXL input to record, the recording only appears in the left stereo output on the software I use and the same thing happens when I use channel 2 but in the opposite output. But I had no worries cuz I can easily copy and paste the recording in the opposite output and it comes out how it should be....in both ears. Its prolly cuz of the mono output properties of the mic or something but consider what I said if you want to buy the preamp. Hint: I use Cool Edit Pro when recording and EQ'in.

Ease of Use:
VERY VERY EASY to use!!

Support:
The best support.....none at all!!

Overall:
Overall I give it a 10!!

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Overall:
* * * * * * * . . . 7 out of 10
Features:
* * * * * * * . . . 7 out of 10
Quality:
* * * * * * * . . . 7 out of 10
Value:
* * * * * * * . . . 7 out of 10
I Want It:
* * * * * * * . . . 7 out of 10
Sound:
* * * * * * . . . . 6 out of 10
Ease of Use:
* * * * * * * . . . 7 out of 10

Feature:
If you are calling the operators manual an accesory then yes it did. The manual was/is a little confusing at times.

Value:
Yes

Desirability:
Once I figured out the layout it didn't/doesn't matter much.

Sound:
My OS is Vista and I'm using it for voice only. I can't seem to get rid of a hiss, at the M-Audio control pannel or my recording software no matter what I do to adjust it out.

Ease of Use:
The physical location of the ins and out doesn't seem to have any reason.

Support:
Never called

Overall:
Until I can tweak my studio as much as I know how to I'll keep it. Once I've isolated the ever present hiss to either my ac, equipment, or said interface I'll keep it as a reminder of where I've been. My search for another product will be based on the compatability with my O.S. (Vista). This is a first for me so I have nothing to compare it to. My goals are to do voice overs and not nesseccarily music. If the box were stolen I would be more discriminating before laying down the greenbacks. I wish I knew the drivers were going to be an issue. I've had too many problems with Vista compatability and the downloads (more than one attempt) have all been different with various error messages. I like the fact that it does not take up too much space on my desk. I don't like the fact that it is not Vista friendly.

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Overall:
* * * * * * . . . . 6 out of 10
Features:
* * * * * * * . . . 7 out of 10
Quality:
* * * * * * * . . . 7 out of 10
Value:
* * * * * * * * . . 8 out of 10
I Want It:
* * * * * . . . . . 5 out of 10
Sound:
* * * * * * . . . . 6 out of 10
Ease of Use:
* * * * * * . . . . 6 out of 10
Support:
* * * * * . . . . . 5 out of 10

Feature:
OK for the price

Quality:
I've had this over a year and still works great with my XP laptop.

Value:
For the price its OK.

Desirability:
I dont care what gear looks like it just needs to work.

Sound:
Sounds clean enough but not much head room for peaks, you need to run it on the cool side.

Ease of Use:
Very easy with XP, very buggy with Vista

Support:
As far as XP no problems, but with my Vista desktop the driver is very buggy. Look on the Net all kinds of problems with sound output from the Mobile Pre in Vista. Have gone back and forth with tech support and they don't have a clue.

Overall:
I'm already looking for a replacement.

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Overall:
* * * * * * . . . . 6 out of 10
Features:
* * * * * * * * * . 9 out of 10
Quality:
* * * * * * * . . . 7 out of 10
Value:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
I Want It:
* * * * * * * . . . 7 out of 10
Sound:
* * * * * * . . . . 6 out of 10
Ease of Use:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10

Feature:
For what it is, it's a must for beginners. It's the first thing I got, and though constantly having to turn it up and down was annoying, for the price, it was well worth it. It helped me learn when I knew absolutely nothing. Easy to use and set up. Definitely recommend it for beginners to recording.

Quality:
Made sturdy, packaged well.

Value:
For the price and application, it's awesome. If you're looking to start recording, have very little money, and don't know much - get this thing. You won't be disappointed.

Desirability:
In the range of novice-intermediate interfaces, it's pretty solid. However, if you can muster up a couple hundred bucks more, you'll be MUCH happier with a FirePod.

Sound:
The biggest drawback for me with this thing has been recording vocals. The preamp, though it's supposedly 48v phantom power, is quite weak. I have to turn it WAY up when singing quietly, and WAY down when singing loudly. It's really annoying having to mediate between volumes like this and split up my vocals in accordance to loudness. I know it's not my condenser mic - I just got a PreSonus Firestudio and ran the same mic through that - everything is gravy. So, something is up with the preamp.

Ease of Use:
It's cake.

Overall:
Don't regret buying it, but don't expect to get totally top-notch sound out of it by a long shot!!

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Overall:
* * * * * * * * * . 9 out of 10
Features:
* * * * * * * * . . 8 out of 10
Quality:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Value:
* * * * * * * * * . 9 out of 10
I Want It:
* * * * * * * * . . 8 out of 10
Sound:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Ease of Use:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Support:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10

Feature:
For what it is it will be perfect for most. For me, it has a combined line out/headphone output. So I can't trim down headphone volume for a performer, and mix at the same time. The alternative is to just run things through out of my mixer. Pre amps sound excellent, has phantom power, and an instrument jack on the front. This is a solid piece of kit for those just needing something to plug and play.

Quality:
I've been using this thing now for 3 years or so. Rock solid. Only problem I've had is the no separate controls for line out and headphone. Excellent low/no latency drivers. A/D converters and Pre Amps solid.

Value:
I'd give it a 10, but it would need to be 50 less :p This is a solid solution for the computer music junky like myself.

Desirability:
At the time, it was the hottest thing out. Firewire hadn't broken onto the market yet. That said, today, it's still a desirable piece of kit that won't let you down.

Sound:
It's an interface. Good A/D converters. No noise. M-Audio is good about drivers and updates, just keep that sorted and you'll be good.

Ease of Use:
Plug it in, grab drivers, and your set. 3 knobs on front, 1 button. Also has a stereo 1/8" out on the rear.

Support:
M-Audio has been good to me. Website is top notch.

Overall:
Overall, i've had 3 years. Good A/D converters. Good Pre-Amps. Inputs front and rear. Phantom Power. Solid drivers with low latency. If anyone reads this, know that there are a lot of inexperienced people who buy a product, get frustrated from their own lack of knowledge. They then come here in a review and vent. I could diagnose all the problems people wrote about the product.. and it's not related to this product in any way. A+++ Buy, you won't be let down. Always do your research first :)

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Overall:
* . . . . . . . . . 1 out of 10
Features:
* . . . . . . . . . 1 out of 10
Quality:
* . . . . . . . . . 1 out of 10
Value:
* . . . . . . . . . 1 out of 10
I Want It:
* . . . . . . . . . 1 out of 10
Sound:
* . . . . . . . . . 1 out of 10
Ease of Use:
* . . . . . . . . . 1 out of 10
Support:
* . . . . . . . . . 1 out of 10

Sound:
After 15 seconds of recording the thing clicks then makes everything sound low, like slow motion or something. So frustrating.

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Overall:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Features:
* * * * * * * * * . 9 out of 10
Quality:
* * * * * * * * * . 9 out of 10
Value:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
I Want It:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Sound:
* * * * * * * * * . 9 out of 10
Ease of Use:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Support:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10

Feature:
Very simple features for the basics to get started. If you don't need too many knobs and I/O you'll be satisfied with this product, it does the job!

Quality:
very sturdy, made to last for a couple of years, looks to be in great shape, size, and strong to last.

Value:
Price?!? Very cheap compared to other audio interface. This one is easy to use, cheap, and good quality as well, can't ask for more at this value.

Desirability:
It's just a practical addition to my setup, but the most important one. =) It's a must have!

Sound:
Pretty good once you get the set up running. very small device, doesn't take much room, and sounds good.

Ease of Use:
I don't think it could be any easier to use, everything is right in front of you so, just use what you need.

Support:
Didn't need it, and when I did, I just read the menu and there it was the answer for my simple question. =)

Overall:
Overall I'll give it a 10 for the quality, price, convinience to use, easy set up, features, sound and so on. This product does it all at a very low price to get started.

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Overall:
* * * * . . . . . . 4 out of 10
Features:
* * * * * * * * . . 8 out of 10
Quality:
* * * . . . . . . . 3 out of 10
Value:
* * * * * . . . . . 5 out of 10
I Want It:
* * * * * * * . . . 7 out of 10
Sound:
* * . . . . . . . . 2 out of 10
Ease of Use:
* * * * * * * * . . 8 out of 10
Support:
* . . . . . . . . . 1 out of 10

Feature:
Nothing really fancy, gets the job done.

Quality:
The phantom power broke after about 6 months of use.

Value:
Okay value, as long as yours doesn't break like mine did after 6 months.

Desirability:
Not impressed with durability.

Sound:
Good sound, except when the phantom power broke after 6 months of use, with approximately 20 minutes of total regular use per week. Now it sounds really poppy and scratchy, even though I have tried it with TWO different condenser mics and three sets of cables (I know it is the Mobile-Pre that is broken - not my other gear).

Ease of Use:
Fairly easy to use. Software is a little outdated (running Windows 2000 era software on Windows XP works, but it is a little buggy), but once you get the hang of it, it works ok.

Support:
I've called their non-800 support line to get a warranty return authorization, and have been on their phone for well over an hour. THEIR TECH SUPPORT SUCKS!!!!

Overall:
It broke, and loses points because of that.

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Overall:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Features:
* * * * * * * * * . 9 out of 10
Quality:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Value:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
I Want It:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Sound:
* * * * * * * * * . 9 out of 10
Ease of Use:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Support:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10

Feature:
2 inputs phantom power, it has headphone jack, stereo output, digital connectors, basically exactly what i need right now.

Quality:
its not to heavy, but sturdy for sure. i take this thing throw it in my back pack and get in my ac to hook it up to my labtop for on the road recording and its always on point. had it for 3 years i constantly bring it out. not in the case either.. just throw it in a backpack how it is.

Value:
it was 150, and well worth it.

Desirability:
Now it does.. the one i have isnt as sexy, but its still DAMN good amp.

Sound:
Okay let me say this thing has a serious digital sound. SERIOUS, the microphone obviously makes a difference and the performer recording. i own an audio technica 3035 and they work fantastic together. ive had it for 3 years and i still love it.

Ease of Use:
its straight up. nothing crazy to figure out.

Support:
its the best. because i never needed them, i got this amp... never once had to call m-audio

Overall:
i love this. i will replace it eventully im sure. but for my first amp and home studio soundcard its definetly worth it. i can record anything with 1/4 inch jack to XLR inputs. if this product got lost or stolen i would be heartbroken, i love it.

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Overall:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Features:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Quality:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Value:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
I Want It:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Sound:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Ease of Use:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Support:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10

Feature:
if theres more features available with an interface product, I'm sure it would be over my head...this thing has everything I need.....did I mention phantom power !!!

Quality:
its a metal case and few buttons, for me....thats great the less there is, the less I can break !

Value:
under $200 to record off of a computer at home, with near perfect quality.....brilliant.

Desirability:
I waited for 6 months for it to be available......at about $200 cheaper then the next closest unit I was looking for, I got more then I could have asked for....did I mention its phantom powered !!!

Sound:
I'm using it pretty portably, with my laptop and a phantom powered condenser.....great dou !!! its crystal clear couldn't ask for anything more!!!!

Ease of Use:
as its been said, if you can't work this thing.....you get a "1" not the box.

Support:
I have dealt with M-Audio before but never for this unit, they are very friendly and knowledgable though !!!

Overall:
M-Audio nailed it with this product !!

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Overall:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Features:
* * * * * * * * . . 8 out of 10
Quality:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Value:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
I Want It:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Sound:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10
Ease of Use:
* * * * * * * * * * 10 out of 10

Feature:
it came with Ableton Live, which sucks, but the direct monitor feature i nice, and the drivers are ready right out of the box. truly a plug and play device. OH, and Protools M-Powered support puts a smile on my face :)

Quality:
well made and sturdy, not much to say, everything works fine!

Value:
hell yea, you get waaaaaaaaaaay more than what you pay for. they could sell this thing for double the price if they wanted. its great!

Desirability:
yea, looks good in the studio, makes girls all hot and bothered when they come over, lol

Sound:
perfect for what i needed. im just recording vocals, and the preamps on the Mobilepre are silent. no hiss, no hum, no nothing. and dont let the "USB is slow" myth worry you, becasue i have no latency issues with the unit.

Ease of Use:
you gotta dumb as hell to have problems with this thing. if its hard 2 use, its not the unit, its you.

Support:
i dont kno, i havent had any problems with it..

Overall:
As of now, i dont really thing i'll grow tired of this. for a home recording studio where all you want is clean, crisp vocals, this little box give you all you need. once you run a compressor and a few effect plug-ins through your vocals, they sound perfect. but you have to have editing skills, you cant blame the box if YOU suck, lol.

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Overall:
* * * * * * * . . . 7 out of 10
Features:
* * * * * * * . . . 7 out of 10
Quality:
* * * * * * * . . . 7 out of 10
Value:
* * * * * * * * . . 8 out of 10
I Want It:
* * * * * * * * . . 8 out of 10
Sound:
* * * *