No audio interface is more Komplete than the Native Instruments Komplete Audio 6 -- a six-channel audio interface offering everything you need to record, play, and perform music. The Komplete Audio 6 package includes the audio interface; Komplete Elements with over 1,000 instruments and effects; and software for recording, sequencing, and DJing.

The Komplete Audio 6 has four analog ins and outs, digital I/O, MIDI, and low-latency performance. Housed in rugged metal casing, the unit also has two mic inputs armed with preamps, plus Cirrus Logic converters said to deliver pristine, transparent sound. The audio interface is designed to be flexible, with plenty of options for connecting mics, guitars, MIDI instruments, or outboard gear. Its main features are as follows:

• 2 Balanced mic / line / instrument (XLR) inputs
• 2 Balanced line (1/4" TRS) inputs
• 4 Balanced analog outputs (1/4" TRS)
• Digital stereo input and output (S/PDIF / RCA) for lossless signal transmission
• MIDI I/O for master keyboard, Maschine, or any third-party MIDI controller
• Headphone output with independent level control and source switch
• Completely USB-powered, with an extra sturdy custom USB socket

Whether you're playing virtual instruments or recording audio, this new package has all the virtual instruments and effects to keep you covered. The unit also offers new chips, new audio drivers, and new circuitry ensure that latency is low. According to Native Instruments, the direct monitoring option provides 100 percent latency-free monitoring for recording guitars, vocals, or other live sources.

Other recording features include the following:

• Low-latency performance for using virtual instruments and effects
• High-quality preamps with individual gain controls
• Direct monitoring for live, latency-free recording
• Mono input switch for recording vocals, guitar, or other mono sources
• 48V phantom power for using condenser mics and active DI boxes
• 15 Status LEDs provide visual feedback for all signals and indicate clipping

With the Komplete Audio 6 package, you can produce songs or mix tracks right out of the box. It includes Komplete Elements, with over 3 GB of instruments and effects; Cubase LE 5 sequencer and recording software; Traktor LE 2 DJ software; and a $30 e-voucher for Komplete Instruments or Effects at the NI Online Shop.

The Komplete Audio 6 package will be available on May 2, 2011 for $339 (MSRP). For more information, visit native-instruments.com.