Gearank

Gearank Recommendation

We were recommending this prior to December 2017 when we did a complete review of the category and found that there were more highly rated options which are now on our recommended list in our guide The Best USB Audio Interfaces - 4 / 8 / 16 Channel.

Overview

Introduced in 2000, M-audio is a popular brand that is well known for it's audio interfaces.

The M-Track Eight is the largest of M-Audio's M-track line and it delivers a straightforward no-frills 8 channels of mic preamp or line inputs. Each input channel has a dedicated gain control and level display and with a high headroom input that features M-Audio's Octane Preamp Technology. The two front inputs can be switched to allow Hi-Z instrument inputs such as guitar.

There are two headphone outputs with independent levels.

The unit does not come with a MIDI interface which is a little surprising given that this is one of M-Audio's strength's but the philosophy here seems to be to focus on the A/D and do that well.

The included software looks pretty comprehensive with a waves plugin bundle including AudioTrack, Eddie Kramer Effect Channel, TrueVerb, L1 Ultramaximizer, and Manny Marroquin Delay in addition to Cubase 7 LE.

Specifications

• A/D Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz
• Simultaneous I/O: 8 x 8
• Inputs: 8 x XLR/TRS Combo (2 switchable to Hi-Z instrument)
• Outputs: 8 x 1/4" Balanced. 2 x 1/4" Output Monitor. 2 x 1/4" Stereo Headphones
• Computer Connectivity: USB 2.0
• MIDI : No Midi Connections
• 8 x Octane Preamp Technology
• Phantom Power: +48V switchable for channel 1-4, 5-8
• Zero-latency monitoring

For more affordable alternatives, check out our recommended budget audio interfaces.