Enhanced sound quality, compatibility with Apple Logic and Avid Pro Tools, and I/O flexibility are just some of the main features of the new Apogee Symphony I/O.

The multichannel audio interface, a collaboration between Apogee audio hardware and Macs, also features a modular-based system that can function in StandAlone Mode or connect directly to a Mac via any Mac-based audio workstation; digital audio conversion technology; new Maestro 2 software; multiple I/O options; and low-latency performance.

The upgraded Symphony I/O now allows you to define a system to your specific needs. Its base chassis can accommodate up to two I/O modules -- for any combination of analog and digital I/O with USB 2.0 -- as well as offer Avid Pro Tools connectivity.

Current I/O modules include the following: 8 Analog I/O + 8 Optical I/O; 8 Analog I/O + 8 AES I/O; 8 Mic Preamp; 16 Analog IN + 16 Optical OUT; and 16 Analog OUT + 16 Optical IN.

You can connect the Symphony I/O to the Symphony 64 PCI or Symphony Mobile Express/34 card for low latency with Apple Logic and all Apple Core Audio applications.

According to Apogee, the new Maestro 2 software offers control of Symphony I/O with a cleaner interface that makes workflow easy by removing the guesswork from routing, mic pre adjustment, input and output calibration and hardware control.

Symphony I/O features:

• The latest in Apogee conversion and clocking technologies


• Audio Interface Mode (AIM) lets you configure the Symphony I/O from the front panel for these modes: Symphony (connect to Symphony PCIe card or Symphony Mobile Express/34 card for use with Logic or any Core Audio application); Pro Tools HD (connect directly to Pro Tools PCIe card); USB (connect to high-speed USB 2.0 port); and StandAlone (I/O inputs routed directly to I/O outputs)


• Front-panel control including 2 encoder knobs for selectable input gain and output level adjustment and 16 high-resolution meters, audio system, and clocking indication


• 2 headphone outputs


• 4 Word Clock connections


• Ethernet and USB computer connectivity to be available with a future firmware update


• Includes Maestro 2, which allows control of all Apogee hardware inputs, outputs, low-latency monitoring and routing paths for single or multiple devices; which offers audio system, clocking, sample rate, headphone output, and output level controls placed at the top toolbar for quick and easy access


• Available with feet for desktop use or rack ears for rackmounting

Features for the Symphony I/O will be released in stages over the next few months. For complete details about the Symphony I/O, please visit Apogee's Web site at apogeedigital.com.