Tascam US-16×08 Audio/MIDI Interface Bundle Review (April 2024)
$360.92
Description
In this review post, we’re going to be discussing the Tascam US-16×08 Audio/MIDI Interface Bundle, including an overview of its unique features.
Product Description
The TASCAM US-16×08 captures 16 mic and line inputs to your computer with clear sound quality and advanced features to manage big sessions. Eight Ultra-HDDA microphone preamps deliver the cleanest and quietest operation in their class while delivering up to 56dB of gain. An additional eight line inputs are provided, two of them switchable to instrument level for direct guitar or bass recording. Eight balanced line outputs are also available, two with level control on the front panel for monitoring.
TASCAM USB Audio Interfaces Driver (Settings Panel) software for Windows has been updated to Version 4.00, enabling to build of music production environments with ultra-low latency that maximizes the processing power of the computers in use. In this new version, the driver’s stability has been greatly enhanced, the audio buffer size is now selectable up from 4 samples instead of older versions with the default buffer size of 64 samples, and overall usability has been improved.
Built into the US-16×08 is a DSP Mixer for low-latency digital mixing. Each channel has four-band EQ and compression for polished-sounding monitor mixes. In addition to interface mode, the US-16×08 can be used as a standalone mic preamp. Mac and Windows drivers are provided, as well as USB Class Compliant 2.0 drivers for tablets like Apple’s iPad. MIDI input and output are also available on the rear panel.
Whether using the ergonomically-designed angled desktop stand or mounting with the included rack ears, the US-16×08 includes analog I/O for almost any music recording application. TASCAM’s own Ultra-HDDA mic preamps are the cleanest, quietest, and best-sounding of any interface in their price range. A gain range of 56dB makes them ideal for any type of mic–dynamic, condenser, or ribbon. With preamp performance well beyond any interfaces in their price range, the Ultra-HDDA preamps on the US-16×08 make your tracks sound like a record.
These powerful new interfaces are housed in modern industrial designs that are as ergonomic as they are stylish. TASCAM was the first company to offer a USB audio interface, and we have fused our years of experience with acclaimed German from design box.
The angled design makes desktop viewing and operation much more comfortable. All other interfaces have their controls on the front of the top of the device, causing you to crane your neck to read the knobs and switches. The US-16×08 controls are at a natural angle, making operation easier. The US-16×08 includes an all-new driver architecture, written in-house by TASCAM engineers. The Windows driver software can be installed without connecting the interface, with simple on-screen instructions. Mac users can use the interface without installing a driver at all. Simply install the control panel software in order to change device settings.
Powered by an Analog Devices BlackFin DSP processor, the US-16×08 includes an advanced digital mixer for monitor mixing. Each input includes 4-band EQ, a low-cut filter, and a compressor. The DSP mixer can store up to 10 snapshots as scenes – making it easy to recall mixer settings. An additional tab opens a digital patch bay to route signals to any output. The class-compliant driver allows it to be used with tablets like Apple’s iPad. (Requires Apple’s Camera Connection Kit for USB connection)
Product Features
- Ultra-HDDA (High Definition Discrete Architecture) mic preamps with −125dBu EIN
- Eight Ultra-HDDA mic pres with XLR connectors, eight TRS inputs
- Standalone mode for use as an independent mic preamp
- Up to 96kHz/24-bit recording
- Support for Windows and Macintosh
- USB 2.0 computer connection
- Connect with iPads and other iOS devices via Class Compliant drivers
- +48V phantom power available for all microphone inputs
- High-impedance inputs available
- 56 dB of preamp gain, ideal for dynamic or ribbon microphones
- Tough metal casing for durability
- Angled design provides excellent usability on a desktop
- Eight TRS outputs
- Standard TRS headphones output jack with 70mW/ch output power
- Separate controls for line and headphones output volumes
- MIDI input and output
- Low-latency monitoring via on-board DSP mixer
- DSP mixer with 4-band EQ and compression on each input channel
- Digital Patch bay allows outputs to be assigned freely
- Scenes can store DSP mixer settings (up to 10 scenes can be stored and named)
- USB class-compliant 2.0 support
- Confirmed operation with major DAW software (SONAR, ProTools, Cubase, Live, Studio One, Garage Band, Logic Pro)
- RoHS certified
- Dedicated AC adapter included
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Strong build
- Very reputable
- Worth the price
- Great sound quality
- Well-known manufacturer
- iPad, iOS, and Tablet compatibility
- Positive customer review testimonials
- Technical specifications that are impressive
Cons
- Quite Pricey
- It’s a little old, having been launched in 2014
- When compared to other interfaces, there are no real distinguishing features
Tascam US-16×08 Audio/MIDI Interface Bundle Demo
Our Verdict
The US-16×08 has eight mic preamps with 56dB gain and eight balanced 1/4-inch line inputs, two of which are switchable to instrument level. The integrated DSP mixer promises low-latency monitoring, as well as EQ and compression on each channel.
If you position the new interface on a desktop, you may turn it towards you by utilizing the side panels, and rack ears are included. Overall, the Tascam US-1608 is a high-quality interface that could be a suitable choice for folks that need iPad, iOS, and another tablet compatibility.
Where to Buy
The best place to buy this product has to be Amazon, due to their competitive pricing and fantastic customer service.
Tascam US-16x08 Rackmount USB Audio/MIDI Interface with Pro Headphone and Pair of EMB XLR Cables and Gravity Magnet Phone Holder Bundle
Pricing History
Price History for Tascam US-16x08 Rackmount USB Audio/MIDI Interface with Pro Headphone and Pair of EMB XLR Cables...
Statistics
| Current Price | $402.99 | April 5, 2024 |
| Highest Price | $402.99 | December 21, 2023 |
| Lowest Price | $402.99 | December 21, 2023 |
Last price changes
| $402.99 | December 21, 2023 |
Buyers Guides This Product Is Featured In
Best 8 Channel Audio Interfaces (2022)
Best Audio Interfaces Under $500
Best Low Latency Audio Interfaces (2022)
Additional information
| Product Dimensions | 4 x 9 x 14 inches |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 10 pounds |
| Item model number | US-16×08+HP+XLR+M |
| Date First Available | April 3, 2020 |
| Manufacturer | Tascam |
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