MOTU Audio Express Hybrid FireWire and USB Audio Interface

The Audio Express uses MOTU's Hybrid interface technology, so it connects to a Mac or PC over either FireWire or high-speed USB 2.0 without choosing sides at purchase time. Inputs cover a microphone, a guitar, a keyboard and a digital S/PDIF source, and each gets its own front-panel volume control, which is the fastest way to balance a small setup without reaching for a mouse.

Any input routes directly to any output pair, and each pair carries its own mix: main outs, line outs, S/PDIF out and headphones. That makes it useful on stage as well as in a personal studio, where the performer's headphone mix and the house feed need to differ. Setup is deliberately plain: connect powered speakers, plug in instruments, install the drivers, set the knobs.