IK Multimedia AXE I/O Premium Audio Interface with Advanced Guitar Tone Shaping

SKU: IKMIPTAXEIO MFR: IP-INT-AXEIO-IN
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Key Features

  • Capture pristine audio with this premium audio interface, ideal for studio recording.
  • Experience ultra-low latency for real-time guitar tone shaping and seamless performance.
  • Connect all your gear via versatile I/O, including XLR, MIDI, and instrument inputs.
  • Achieve high-resolution 192kHz recording for professional-grade digital audio quality.
  • Enjoy stable drivers for Mac/PC, ensuring reliable performance during every session.
  • Craft your signature sound with advanced guitar tone shaping and Z-Tone impedance control.
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IK Multimedia AXE I/O Specifications

General

General

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  • Compatibility

    Computers
    64-bit application. Requires a 64 bit CPU and Operating System.

    Mac (64-bits)
    Minimal: macOS 10.11 or later. One free USB port.

    Windows (64-bits)
    Minimal: Windows 7 or later. One free USB port.

  • Conversion

    24-bit A/D, 24-bit D/A

  • Sampling Rate

    44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 88.2 kHz, 96 kHz, 176.4 kHz and 192 kHz

  • Power

    DC IN

  • Device Connection

    USB B-Type 2.0

  • Enclosure

    metal sheet

Line Outputs 1-2 (Monitor)

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  • Configuration

    Electronically balanced and floating, automatically compensates level when connection is balanced or unbalanced, tip hot.

  • Output impedance

    150 Ohms balanced, 75 Ohms unbalanced

  • Output Level

    0 dBFS corresponds to +21 dBu

  • Frequency response

    From 3 Hz to 32 kHz within 0.5 dB (96 kHz sample rate)

  • Dynamic Range

    116 dB(A)

  • THD+N

    -106 dB(A) at -1 dBFS

  • Channels 1-2 crosstalk

    115 dB(A)

Line Outputs 3-4

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  • Configuration

    Unbalanced

  • Output impedance

    75 Ohms

  • Output Level

    0 dBFS corresponds to +16 dBu

  • Frequency response

    From 3 Hz to 32 kHz within 0.5 dB (96 kHz sample rate)

  • Dynamic Range

    115 dB(A)

  • THD+N

    -102 dB(A)

  • Channels 3-4 crosstalk

    112 dB(A)

Output 5 (Amp output)

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  • Configuration

    Unbalanced, floating, with selectable ground lift

  • Output impedance

    100 Ohms

  • Output Level

    0 dBFS corresponds to -6 dBu

  • Frequency response

    From 10 Hz to 32 kHz within 0.5 dB (96 kHz sample rate)

  • Dynamic Range

    110 dB(A)

  • THD+N

    -104 dB(A)

Headphones Out

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  • Output impedance

    Virtually ideal source (zero Ohms) until clipping

  • Maximum Output level

    +12 dBu into 50 Ohms load (approx. 180 mW)

  • Frequency response

    From 3 Hz to 32 kHz within 0.5 dB (96 kHz sample rate)

  • Dynamic Range

    112 dB(A)

  • THD+N

    -100 dB(A)

Mic Inputs 1-2

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  • Configuration

    Class-A discrete differential microphone preamp, pin 2 hot

  • Input impedance

    4 kOhms differential

  • Input level

    Min gain: 0 dBFS is obtained with a +12 dBu signal at the XLR input
    Max gain: 0 dBFS is obtained with a -37 dBu signal at the XLR input

  • Frequency response

    From 5 Hz to 32 kHz within 0.5 dB (96 kHz sample rate)

  • Dynamic Range

    116 dB(A)

  • THD+N

    -106 dB(A) at -10 dBFS

Line Inputs 1-2

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  • Configuration

    Class-A discrete differential line receiver, tip hot

  • Input impedance

    20 kOhms differential

  • Input level

    Min gain: 0 dBFS is obtained with a +26 dBu signal at the TRS input
    Max gain: 0 dBFS is obtained with a -24 dBu signal at the TRS input

  • Frequency response

    From 5 Hz to 32 kHz within 0.5 dB (96 kHz sample rate)

  • Dynamic Range

    116 dB(A)

  • THD+N

    -106 dB(A) at -10 dBFS

Instrument Inputs 1

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  • Configuration

    Multiple topology instrument preamp

  • Input impedance

    PASSIVE mode: Variable from 1 MOhms down to 2.2 kOhms
    ACTIVE mode: 10 kOhms

  • Input level

    Min gain: 0 dBFS is obtained with a +14 dBu signal at the TS input<>Max gain: 0 dBFS is obtained with a -17 dBu signal at the TS input

  • Frequency response

    From 3 Hz to 32 kHz within 0.5 dB (96 kHz sample rate)

  • Dynamic Range

    117 dB(A)

  • THD, PURE mode

    0.0015%

  • THD, JFET mode

    0.5%

Instrument Inputs 2

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  • Configuration

    Hi-Z instrument preamp

  • Input impedance

    1 MOhms

  • Input level

    Min gain: 0 dBFS is obtained with a +14 dBu signal at the TS input
    Max gain: 0 dBFS is obtained with a -17 dBu signal at the TS input

  • Frequency response

    From 3 Hz to 32 kHz within 0.5 dB (96 kHz sample rate)

  • Dynamic Range

    117 dB(A)

  • THD

    0.006%

Connections and Controls

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  • Front Panel

    Two 1/4" instrument input jacks
    Two analog potentiometers for Input GAIN
    Two 5 segments input level meter (peak)
    Two INST, LINE, MIC LEDs
    Analog potentiometers for Z-Tone control
    Pick-Up selector (PASSIVE/ACTIVE)
    Preamp topology selector (JFET/PURE)
    +48V phantom power switch
    Tuner switch

  • Front Panel (Contd.)

    Tuner display and LEDs
    USB LEDS
    MIDI IN/OUT LEDs
    push-encoder for Presets
    Monitor knob
    1/4" headphones output jack
    Master potentiometer for main output control
    1/4" Amp output jack

  • Rear Panel

    On/Off power switch
    External DC power input
    MIDI I/O 5-pin DIN connectors
    B-Type USB socket for connecting a computer (Mac/PC)
    2 x 1/4" TRS External controllers sockets
    2 x 1/4" TRS Balanced floating line outputs
    2 x 1/4" TRS Unbalanced line outputs
    2 Combo sockets for MIC input and Instrument input (auto selecting)

Physical

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  • Dimensions

    9.37 x 8.31 x 2.09" (23.8 x 21.1 x 5.3cm)

  • Weight

    2.9 lb (1.3kg)

  • UPC Code

    8025813785038

About IK Multimedia AXE I/O

An unparalleled fusion of high-end sound and best-in-class guitar tone, the AXE I/O Premium Audio Interface is a testament to IK Multimedia's dedication to audio excellence since pioneering guitar amp and effects modeling in 2002. With over 400 pieces of gear meticulously modeled through tens of thousands of hours of detailed study, the AXE I/O encapsulates this rich history of expertise.

Designed to cater to the discerning needs of recording guitarists, this professional 2 in/5 out audio interface and controller delivers unparalleled sound quality and features engineered to streamline and enhance your recording sessions. The AXE I/O boasts an exclusive triple-topology, fully discrete input circuit, offering both PURE and JFET input stages. This allows musicians to effortlessly switch from a transparent sound to a tube-like warmth, adding a new dimension to your recordings.

The innovative, patent-pending Z-Tone impedance-adapting circuit is a game-changer, providing a vast tonal palette by interacting with your guitar's pickups. This unique feature offers a range from a sharp 1 MOhm to a bold 2.2 kOhms, allowing for unprecedented tonal flexibility that can be fine-tuned to perfection.

The dedicated Amp Out feature simplifies the re-amplification process, allowing you to route your signal to external amps and pedals without the need for additional gear or disconnection hassles. This low-noise output also eliminates ground loops, ensuring the cleanest possible signal for high-gain re-amplification.

Integration with AmpliTube 4 Deluxe is seamless, enabling you to select presets and control parameters directly from the AXE I/O. The interface also accommodates pedals and switches, allowing for hands-free manipulation of your virtual rig. An onboard tuner ensures you're always ready to capture inspiration with impeccable timing.

AXE I/O's exceptional audio fidelity is evident in its impressive 117 dB dynamic range and expansive 3 Hz - 32 kHz frequency response. These specifications are critical for capturing the nuanced details of your performance and maintaining the purest sound. The interface features two Hi-Z front 1/4" inputs, two rear combo inputs with phantom power, and precision front peak meters for optimal signal monitoring.

Connectivity is comprehensive, with two floating balanced outputs, two unbalanced, and one floating unbalanced Amp out, alongside a high-current headphone output with independent volume control. The Monitor knob facilitates zero-latency direct monitoring, blending your instrument's sound with the audio from your computer.

The AXE I/O's main channel offers three distinct circuit topologies - PURE, JFET, and Active - each providing a unique approach to capturing your guitar's essence. Whether you seek a transparent signal path or a touch of harmonic enhancement, the AXE I/O adapts to your style and instrument with ease.

For microphone recording, the AXE I/O presents two PURE mic preamps, delivering a transparent and clean capture with a wide frequency response. These preamps are designed to preserve the character of your acoustic instruments and the signature of your microphones without unwanted coloration.

The AXE I/O Control Panel software further enhances the user experience, offering advanced digital control and routing capabilities. This intuitive application allows you to manage inputs and outputs, assign controllers, and customize settings for an efficient and focused workflow.

In summary, the AXE I/O Premium Audio Interface is not just a tool but a comprehensive solution for guitarists seeking the ultimate recording experience. It's a full-blown analog in-the-box studio that brings IK Multimedia's vast audio engineering knowledge straight to your fingertips.

IK Multimedia AXE I/O Features

  • Connections
  • 2 in / 5 out (one low-noise Amp out)
  • 2 ultra-low noise mic in/balanced line in
  • Triple topology guitar input with Z-TONE
  • 2 balanced monitor out / 2 line out
  • Reference headphones out
  • 2 fully configurable external control input
  • MIDI input/output
  • USB 2.0 compatible with Mac/PC
  • Best-in-class guitar tone
  • Selectable Active/Passive/discrete JFET/Pure instrument preamp
  • Patent pending Z-TONE input for a tonal palette never heard before
  • Amp out can connect to amps and stomps without ground noise
  • Connect up to 2 expression pedals, single and double-switches
  • Fully assignable data-knob - for AmpliTube preset browsing and more
  • Built-in Tuner
  • Rugged/compact metal housing
  • Includes AmpliTube 4 Deluxe
  • Premium studio sound
  • High-resolution ultra low-noise Class A microphone preamps
  • Best-in-class conversion and superior analog design
  • Asynchronous USB audio, ultra low conversion jitters for premium quality
  • 117dB dynamic range
  • Includes control software
  • Up to 192 kHz sampling rate
  • Includes 10 T-RackS high-end plug-ins and Ableton Live 10 Lite

Product Documents

User Manual

Key Features

  • Capture pristine audio with this premium audio interface, ideal for studio recording.
  • Experience ultra-low latency for real-time guitar tone shaping and seamless performance.
  • Connect all your gear via versatile I/O, including XLR, MIDI, and instrument inputs.
  • Achieve high-resolution 192kHz recording for professional-grade digital audio quality.
  • Enjoy stable drivers for Mac/PC, ensuring reliable performance during every session.
  • Craft your signature sound with advanced guitar tone shaping and Z-Tone impedance control.

What's in the box:

  • AXE I/O Premium Audio Interface with Advanced Guitar Tone Shaping
  • USB A-Type to USB B-Type Connection Cable (4.32')
  • DC Power Supply
  • IK Multimedia 1 Year Limited Warranty