M-Audio Microtrack II

For outdoor recordings, live recordings or song ideas, a recorder that captures different signal sources directly and then transfers the files to a computer with ease is essential. The mobile two-channel recorder M-Audio MicroTrack II records microphone, line and S/PDIF signals to CompactFlash cards or Microdrives. Storage media are available separately.

For analogue sources, two balanced 6.3 mm TRS inputs with microphone preamps and switchable 48 V phantom power are available. Separate controls adjust the level of the left and right channels; signal and clip indicators help you monitor the input level. An analogue limiter controls signal peaks. There is also a 3.5 mm stereo input with 5 V power for electret microphones. You can record digital signals via the coaxial S/PDIF input.

You can save recordings as WAV, BWF or MP3. WAV offers a choice of 16 or 24 bit and sample rates of 44.1, 48, 88.2 and 96 kHz; MP3 recordings are possible at 96 to 320 kbps and 44.1 or 48 kHz. If a recording exceeds the storage medium's 2 GB file limit, the recorder automatically creates another file, allowing recording to continue with only a brief interruption. During recording, you can monitor the input through the outputs; markers can be set in WAV files.

Monitoring is provided by an adjustable 3.5 mm headphone output and two RCA line outputs. Connect the device to a computer via USB 2.0 to transfer recordings using drag and drop or copy files to the storage medium. The USB connection also charges the built-in lithium-ion battery; alternatively, the recorder can be powered by the battery or power supply.

Operation is handled by dedicated buttons for recording, transport navigation, Hold, delete and menu, as well as a navigation wheel. The LCD shows status and levels; signal and clip LEDs provide additional feedback. A three-stage dimmer adjusts the brightness of the display backlight and LEDs. For mobile recordings without a mains socket, battery life is around four to five hours, or around three hours with phantom power switched on.

The MicroTrack II is suitable for mobile stereo recording with direct computer transfer, for example for outdoor and live recordings, songwriting or educational use. For connection to a PC, the system specifies Windows XP with Service Pack 2 or Windows Vista; Mac OS X 10.3.9 or later is required for Mac. Both systems require USB 1.1 or 2.0.