Digidesign and M-Audio have been pulling rabbits out of their hats in recent times; three rabbits in fact! The first one was the new Digidesign Eleven, that once-mystery interface that could be described as a ProTools guitarist's dream come true. We now have here the second one, another audio recording interface from a rather popular line of M-Audio Products, the M-Audio New Fast Track.

As what you'd expect from a basic Fast Track, the New Fast Track is still that instantaneous plug-and-play USB 2.0 compatible audio interface that gives you one XLR connector with 48-V phantom power option for your microphone and a 1/4" instrument input, both of which have gain control, and two RCA stereo outs. So what can be new about that? The big new feature here is that Fast Track now comes with ProTools M-Powered Essential Software bundled with the Fast Track package for that instant music making experience. Audio quality is at 24-bit/48-kHz resolution and comes along with other features such as being USB-powered, output level knob, direct monitoring button, and compatibility with most pro audio software applications.

New Fast Track Front (top) And Rear (bottom) Panels

The M-Audio New Fast Track takes its cue from the Fast Track USB and further improves on the simple no-nonsense operation of its predecessor via the simplified direct monitoring system, top-mounted knobs, and a more powerful headphone output level. Add to that sleek-looking cosmetics, and you've got that fast and easy interface to capture those ideas while on the road or at home. The new Fast Track has an MSRP of 149.95 USD.