Novation introduces Audiohub 2x4, an audio interface that doubles as a USB hub, ideal for electronic music production.

As the name implies, this is a two in, four out audio interface with built-in USB hub capability.

This new multi-purpose USB hub is designed in cooperation with popular vocal preamp and audio interface manufacture Focusrite. They combined their efforts to provide electronic musicians with a nifty "audio hub" that can power all their gear and at the same time reproduce quality audio with minimal latency.

Interestingly, the unit itself can be bus-powered, but to power other USB devices, you will have to plug it into its power supply. Once powered, this rugged box can then power multiple USB gear at once, with three USB 2.0 ports that can be used for bus powering your mobile DJ and electronic music gear. The USB ports also serve as a connecting hub so you can connect your favorite keyboard controller, sampler and other USB gear to your computer. You can even connect all your USB gear to your iPad via the camera connection kit adapter.

Aside from USB, the new Novation Audiohub 2x4 is also compatible with non-USB audio devices via the stereo line-in input, ideal for capturing pre-recorded tracks, synth sounds and more. Two balanced output jacks and one headphone output is also provided, all of them are tweaked to be "blisteringly loud" to make them useful for both studio and live performance settings. This means that you can monitor your mixes and tracks without having to turn down the volume.

The official description says that this compact box feature ultra-low latency performance at 96 kHz, 24-bit resolution, thanks to Focusrite's experience and technology. You can also simply press the input monitor switch for latency free direct monitoring.

Checkout the official video demo:

Other features of the Audiohub 2x4 includes a Kensington security slot, output select switch for the headphones, 2 volume controls for the four outputs, input and output signal/clip LEDs, USB port LED indicators and LEDs that indicate USB hub and audio interface function.

Like most modern audio interfaces, this one works well with both Mac and Windows based computers. It also works great with the iPad, especially since it can power up USB devices, reducing the battery drain of the tablet.

Finally, Audiohub 2x4 is bundled with Ableton Live Lite, allowing for quick OOTB (out-of-the-box) setup and operation. It is expected to start retailing for around $200 this October. For more information on how the Audiohub 2x4 works, head over to Novation Music.

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