Small format interfaces usually fall into three categories: A device meant for musicians, a device that’s meant for a podcaster, and one that does both, but not all that well. PreSonus has bridged the gap with a DAW interface that works across the board as a practical tool for musicians and content creators alike. Enter the Revelator io24 USB-C Audio Interface.
The unit features two combination XLR/1/4” inputs that feed into the XMAX-L preamp, along with a small display screen that provides visual representation of metering levels, connectivity status and preset functionality. A multifunction scroll/press knob as well as soft touch controls provide navigation through the settings on the display screen. Finally, a large red mute button can kill the main outputs, but keeps the headphone output active. Thankfully the front panel is slightly angled providing a good line of sight to the user. On the rear resides a headphone jack, left and right main outputs and full-size MIDI inputs and outputs.
Getting it up and running was a snap, registering the device unlocked a plethora of downloads, including a discounted offer on PreSonus Sphere, as well as versions of Studio One Artist & Studio Magic Plug-in Suite, which is loaded with plug-ins from processing to virtual instruments.
For content creators, the big thing is getting to access some serious under-the-hood functionality via the included universal control application. This app runs the show like a fully equipped studio desk, with EQ, filters, compression, a slap echo, pitch shifting and a noise gate. Each effect is adjustable even further for fully customizable presets that can be saved and recalled. A loopback feature allows easy use for gamers and streaming applications. This makes for a control center that has everything covered. The control app can also be run separately on an iPad as a remote control device. Great for an interview setting where a computer could get in the way or distract the talent.
Running it as a typical DAW interface on its own into Studio One, it functioned easily as well. The preamps are quite nice and musical sounding, and using it to record vocals and guitars provided plenty of clarity and depth with a 24-bit/96kHz response. It runs on Mac and PC devices, and can be used with an iPad (with Apple’s camera adapter) as well, which makes for a very compact and travel-friendly recording package.
Overall, it’s quite a loaded-up piece of kit. Using it as a podcast/vocal overdub device, there were no roadblocks on anything, either in software or hardware. As a recording device for music, there was no latency or any issues running a multi-tracked Studio One session or doing overdubs. The big thing for a user is to really dig into all the functionality and features, there are a lot of useful tools in this package for a musician and content creator.
PROS:
Plenty of signal processing and control for content creators, excellent included software choices, well priced.
CONS:
None
STREET PRICE:
$149