Amber i1 Audio Interface Comprehensive Review

Introduction

Embark on a sonic journey with the groundbreaking Amber i1 audio interface, a technological marvel designed to elevate your audio recording and production experience. As a successor to the renowned U22 XT, the Amber i1 sets new standards in flexibility, aesthetics, and audio quality. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve deep into the features, design nuances, recording capabilities, and bundled software that make the Amber i1 a game-changer in the world of audio interfaces.

Design and Aesthetics: A Visual Delight

The Amber i1’s design is a harmonious blend of modern aesthetics and functional excellence. The amber-colored volume knob, set against the green sand main body, creates a captivating visual contrast. The redesigned LED display area adds a touch of sophistication, making the Amber i1 not only an audio powerhouse but also a visual delight in any studio setup.

Advanced Features: Unveiling the Technological Prowess

Connectivity at Its Best

The Amber i1 boasts a USB 3.1 interface with a USB-C connector, ensuring high-speed data transfer and compatibility with USB 2.0. This audio interface is USB bus-powered, offering the convenience of a single-cable connection for both data and power. With 2 input and 2 output channels operating at 24-bit / 192kHz, the Amber i1 provides a professional-grade audio recording and playback experience.

Dynamic Range and Precision

The ADC (Analog-to-Digital Converter) and DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) on the Amber i1 deliver an impressive 114dB(a) dynamic range. This high level of precision ensures that every nuance of your audio is faithfully captured and reproduced, making it ideal for critical recording and mixing tasks.

Versatile Input Options

The XLR combo microphone preamp with +48V phantom power support accommodates a wide range of microphones, from dynamic to condenser. The Hi-Z instrument input with a 1/4″ TS connector ensures optimal signal capture for electric guitars and basses. Additionally, line inputs with unbalanced RCA connectors provide flexibility for connecting various audio sources.

Real-time Monitoring and Control

The Amber i1 includes a real-time hardware input monitoring feature with an input/output crossfade mixer, allowing for seamless monitoring while recording. The master output volume control and dedicated headphone output with a 1/4″ TRS connector enable precise control over your monitoring and playback levels.

Loopback Channel and Internal Recording

A notable feature of the Amber i1 is the inclusion of a loopback channel, facilitating internal recording and processing. This opens up creative possibilities for capturing not only external audio sources but also internal signals, expanding the horizons of your recording and production capabilities.

Driver Support and Compatibility

Amber i1 ensures optimal performance across various operating systems. The EWDM driver provides robust support for Windows 10 and 11, offering compatibility with ASIO 2.0, MME, WDM, DirectSound, and virtual channels. For macOS users (10.9 and above), the native CoreAudio USB audio driver from Apple ensures seamless integration with Apple devices.

Connectivity and Controls: Navigating the Audio Landscape

The Amber i1’s front panel hosts an array of connectors and controls designed for intuitive operation and efficient workflow.

XLR INPUT: Connect a microphone using an XLR cable.
INPUT GAIN CONTROL: Adjust input gain for microphones and Hi-Z signals.
PEAK / INPUT LEVEL METER: Monitor and adjust input levels for optimal recording.
INPUT INDICATOR: Display the selected input mode (Line/Mic/Hi-Z/Mic+Hi-Z).
INPUT SELECTOR: Easily switch between Line, Mic, Hi-Z, and Mic+Hi-Z inputs.
HEADPHONE VOLUME CONTROL: Fine-tune output volume for connected headphones.
+48V PHANTOM POWER SWITCH: Activate phantom power for condenser microphones.
HI-Z INPUT: Connect electric guitars with a 1/4″ TRS cable.
+48V INDICATOR: Illuminate when +48V phantom power is active.
DIRECT MONITORING CONTROL: Manage the monitoring mix for real-time adjustments.
MASTER VOLUME CONTROL: Control the master output volume.
HEADPHONE OUTPUT: Connect headphones for direct monitoring.
USB-C SOCKET: Establish a connection to a PC, Mac, or tablet.
LINE OUTPUT 1/2: Connect to speakers or an amplifier for audio playback.
LINE INPUT 1/2: Provide a line input for keyboards, synthesizers, CD-Players, etc.

The thoughtful placement of these connectors and controls ensures ease of use, making the Amber i1 an accessible and powerful tool for both beginners and seasoned audio professionals.

Recording Capabilities: Empowering Your Creative Process

Studio-Quality Recording

Amber i1 provides everything you need to capture vocals and instruments in pristine studio quality. The bus-powered USB-C interface features superb 24-bit / 192 kHz converters, ensuring every detail of your performance is faithfully reproduced.

High-Quality Microphone Preamp

The built-in XLR combo microphone preamp with +48V phantom power support ensures optimal performance with a wide range of microphones. Whether you’re recording vocals or acoustic instruments, the Amber i1 delivers the clarity and warmth needed for professional-quality recordings.

Hi-Z Instrument Input

The dedicated Hi-Z instrument input with a 1/4″ TS connector caters to electric guitars, basses, and other high-impedance instruments. With adjustable gain control, you can achieve the perfect balance between signal clarity and character.

Real-Time Hardware Input Monitoring

The real-time hardware input monitoring feature allows you to monitor your input signal directly, facilitating a smooth recording experience. The input/output crossfade mixer ensures seamless transitions between recorded and monitored audio, giving you precise control over your sound.

Masterful Output Control

The master output volume control on the Amber i1 allows you to fine-tune the overall output level, ensuring consistency and balance in your recordings. This level of control is essential for achieving professional-grade mixes and mastering.

Loopback Channel for Internal Recording

The inclusion of a loopback channel is a standout feature, enabling internal recording and processing. This capability opens up creative possibilities for capturing not only external audio sources but also internal signals, expanding the horizons of your recording and production capabilities.

Class-Compliant and Cross-Platform Compatibility

Amber i1 operates as a class-compliant device, ensuring seamless compatibility with a wide range of operating systems. Whether you’re using Windows 10/11 with the high-performance EWDM driver or macOS/OS X (10.9 and above) with the native CoreAudio USB audio driver, the Amber i1 adapts to your preferred environment.

Bundled Software for a Complete Package

To complement its exceptional hardware, the Amber i1 ships with a powerful software package, providing users with a comprehensive suite of tools for recording, editing, and producing music.

Bitwig Studio 8-Track DAW

Bitwig Studio 8-Track is a trim and effective digital audio workstation (DAW) designed for music production, performance, and sound design. With support for up to eight tracks of audio/MIDI, it includes the Bitwig Essentials Package, featuring a versatile selection of handpicked presets and sounds.

Steinberg WaveLab LE

Wave