The Well-Tempered Computer, an introduction to computer audio

Saturday, April 2, 2011

Apogee Digital Duet 2 USB audio interface

Apogee Digital's new Duet 2 is a 2 in x 4 out USB 2.0 audio interface for Mac.  Based on the very successful original Duet, but with upgraded specs and interface.  In addition to analog input for your Mic and instruments, the Duet 2 is a very capable 24/192 DAC in its own right with balance output via proprietary breakout cable or box (optional).  All this for only US$595, very tempting indeed.



Specifications
  • USB 2.0 Mac audio interface2 analog inputs; Combination Line/Mic/Instrument
  • 4 analog outputs
  • Balanced line outputs, +20 dBu maximum output level
  • 1 Independent 1/4” stereo headphone output
  • 2 Microphone preamps with up to 75dB of gain
  • A/D and D/A conversion at 24-bit/192kHz
  • Top panel high resolution OLED display
  • Multi-function controller knob
  • Two assignable top panel touch pads:
  • Mute speakers, headphones or all outputs
  • Assign headphones to outputs 1-2, 3-4 or low latency mixer
  • Dim speakers, headphones or all outputs
  • Sum to mono speakers, headphones or all outputs
  • Selectable 48v phantom power, Soft Limit and phase invert
The Duet 2 mic preamps feature a new design, all new components and seamless click-free transitions as the gain increases and decreases throughout the incredible range of 0-75dB. This unprecedented feature allows you to dial in the perfect level while delivering ultra-low noise and smooth, crisp detail. Most importantly, the Duet 2 mic preamps are optimized for any sound source, so no matter what you are recording you’ll capture every detail. 

The Duet 2 AD/DA converters are an all-new design with 24/192kHz capabilities over USB.
New to Duet 2 is a full color OLED display. This high resolution screen is the main control center for Duet 2, delivering visual feedback for multiple functions including metering, numeric value for input and output levels, input grouping, and phase, muting, phantom power and Soft Limit indication. 
The Duet 2 also introduces configurable touch pads. The 2 touch pads, located on either side of the encoder knob, allow you to quickly access output functions such as “Mute Outputs”, “Dim Outputs”, “Sum to Mono” or “Toggle Headphone Source”. Each are assignable using a drop-down menu within Apogee’s new Maestro 2. This unique feature allows you to select the function you want and access it directly from Duet 2 without having to look at software. 

Duet 2’s new breakout cable is greatly streamlined with 2 combination mic/instrument connectors (XLR and 1/4”) built into a single connector and 2 balanced 1/4” connectors for speakers. The elegant single cable-to-junction design allows for easy cable management and the locking connection to Duet 2 is robust and stylish.