Audient iD4 MKII USB-C Audio Interface Review

The Audient iD4 MKII is a compact, portable USB-C audio interface designed for recording music, podcasts, and more. With its updated USB-C connectivity, Audient has made the iD4 MKII even more versatile for today’s content creators.

In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the features, sound quality, design, and overall performance of the iD4 MKII. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your home recording setup or need an interface for recording on the go, keep reading to see if the iD4 MKII is the right fit for you.

Key Features

• 2 x Audient Console Mic Preamps: Excellent transparent preamps derived from Audient’s flagship console
• All New AD Conversion: Updated 124 dB dynamic range converters deliver superb sound quality
• USB-C Connectivity: Allows easy connection to computers, iPads, and more
• 2 Combination XLR/TRS Inputs: For microphones, instruments, and line-level sources
• 2 Balanced TRS Outputs: To connect monitors, headphones, and other outputs
• JFET Instrument Input: For pristine direct input when recording guitars or basses
• Monitor Blend Control: Mix between zero-latency direct monitoring and DAW playback
• Bus-Powered Operation: Powers via USB-C for highly portable recording

Design & Build Quality

Despite its small size, the iD4 MKII is built like a tank thanks to its rugged metal construction. The knobs have a smooth, sturdy feel when adjusting levels and settings. The unit’s compact rectangular design takes up minimal space on your desk while still providing convenient access to all the controls.

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The front panel features two combination XLR/TRS inputs with an integrated JFET input for instruments. There are also volume knobs for the headphone and main monitor outputs, along with buttons for mono, dim, and mute functions. Around back, you’ll find the two balanced TRS line outputs and USB-C port.

Overall, the iD4 MKII boasts exceptional build quality that lives up to Audient’s reputation. While compact, it doesn’t feel fragile or cheap. The metal casing should stand up well to life on the road.

Sound Quality & Performance

At the heart of the iD4 MKII are Audient’s renowned console microphone preamps, which deliver excellent transparency and dynamic range when recording vocals, acoustic instruments, drums, and more. Audient updated the interface’s AD/DA conversion to provide even better audio performance with a superb 124dB dynamic range.

The two combination inputs accept XLR mic cables and 1/4″ TRS connections, providing flexibility when connecting different sources. A JFET input lets you plug guitars and basses directly into Input 2 for clean, accurate tone. There’s also 48V phantom power for condenser microphones.

Whether recording podcasts, YouTube videos, or music, the iD4 MKII provides extremely high-quality audio capture. The smooth, detailed sound lets you hear every nuance in your performances. There are also zero-latency direct monitoring and blend controls for listening back while tracking.

Overall, the exceptional sound quality of the Audient preamps and converters make this interface a major step up from basic budget audio interfaces. It’s ideal for home studio recording, mobile recording, and content creation.

Features & Functionality

Despite its small form factor, the iD4 MKII is packed with useful tools for recording and monitoring audio. Here are some of the key features:

• Monitor Blend Knob: Lets you blend between zero-latency direct monitoring and audio playback from your DAW. Useful for monitoring while recording.
• Dim and Mono Buttons: Allow you to quickly check stereo mixes in mono or reduce output volume temporarily. Helpful mix checking functions.
• Metering: LED meters on the front panel show output levels at a glance. Gives you visual feedback when setting levels.
• Loopback Recording: Allows internal routing of inputs back into your DAW. Useful for live-streaming podcasts, videos, voiceovers, and more.
• Bus Powered: The iD4 MKII powers via its USB-C port, allowing use with iPad, tablets, and laptops without external power. Highly portable.
• DAW Compatibility: Works seamlessly with all major DAW software including Pro Tools, Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, and more. Plug-and-play connectivity.

While compact, the iD4 MKII doesn’t skimp on pro features that give you flexibility in routing, monitoring, and use cases. It punches above its weight in functionality.

Ease of Use

Setting up and using the iD4 MKII is quick and intuitive, especially for anyone familiar with other desktop audio interfaces. Plugging in mics, instruments, and outputs is easy with the conveniently accessible ports on the front/rear panels.

The iD4 MKII is plug-and-play compatible with Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android devices. Driver installation is fast and simple. The main controls like input gain knobs, monitor blend, and output volume knobs are well-labeled. With its straightforward operation and compact design, the iD4 MKII is easy to incorporate into any home studio or mobile recording setup.

Advanced features like loopback recording may require checking the manual to utilize fully, but in general Audient designed the iD4 MKII for simplified ease of use. It’s a great interface for beginners who want great sound quality without a complex learning curve.

Who Is It For?

With its excellent sound, portable design, and easy operation, the Audient iD4 MKII is a versatile audio interface suitable for:

• Home/Bedroom Musicians: The iD4 MKII has the quality to take amateur recordings to the next level compared to basic audio interfaces. An affordable step-up.
• Podcasters & Voiceover Artists: Allows you to record professional vocals and speech in real-time for podcasts, voiceovers, videos, and live streaming.
• Mobile Recording: Lightweight and bus-powered for recording on the go with a laptop or tablet. Ideal for musicians, podcasters, and content creators.
• Studio Engineers/Producers: Provides pro sound quality in a compact desktop unit. An affordable option for recording vocals, instruments, and more in the studio.
• Guitar/Bass Players: The direct instrument input allows capture of crisp, clean electric guitar and bass tones for recording or live playing.

Overall, it’s a versatile option for anyone from home musicians to professionals needing quality audio I/O in a compact interface.

Drawbacks

There aren’t many negatives to the iD4 MKII given its fair price and excellent performance. However, here are a few potential downsides to consider:

• Only 2 inputs/outputs: While decent for solo performers or podcasters, lack of I/O could limit options for bigger productions. Expandability is constrained.
• No MIDI or ADAT: No additional connectivity for MIDI instruments or expanding channels via ADAT. Limits future growth.
• Headphone amp somewhat weak: The headphone output may not drive higher impedance headphones to sufficiently loud volumes. An annoyance for some.
• No included recording software: You’ll need to provide your own DAW and recording software. Entry-level users may need to purchase a DAW.

For the target user of solo artists/podcasters, the connectivity limits aren’t dealbreaking. But higher-end users may want more I/O capabilities in time.

Alternatives

If the Audient iD4 MKII isn’t quite right for your needs and budget, here are two alternatives worth considering:

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen)

• A similarly compact USB audio interface with 2 combo inputs and outputs.
• Offers digital optical output for connecting monitors/speakers.
• Comes bundled with Pro Tools | First and Ableton Live Lite recording software.
• Cheaper than the iD4 MKII but sound quality not quite as pristine.

Native Instruments Komplete Audio 1

• Great option for NI software users with advanced integration/bundled software.
• 2 combination inputs and 2 outputs plus MIDI I/O for instruments.
• Sturdy metal construction similar to iD4 MKII.
• More expensive than iD4 MKII but adds MIDI and tighter NI ecosystem integration.

Conclusion

With its updated USB-C connectivity, improved audio conversion, and portability, the Audient iD4 MKII is an excellent compact audio interface for the modern content creator. It delivers the legendary sound quality Audient is known for in a rugged metal unit made for life on the go.

While light on extras, the iD4 MKII focuses on superb audio quality that outperforms other interfaces in its price range. For solo musicians, podcasters, and content creators who rely on pristine sound, the iD4 MKII is easy to recommend. It provides pro-level performance and seamless compatibility with all major software and devices.

Summary

• Compact, durable metal construction
• Renowned Audient preamps and AD/DA conversion
• Excellent, detailed sound quality for vocals and instruments
• Straightforward controls for easy operation
• USB-C, bus-powered connectivity for mobile recording
• Perfect for home studio musicians, podcasters, and content creators

Overall, the Audient iD4 MKII delivers tremendous value as an affordable portable interface with true professional sound.

Frequently Asked Questions

What comes included in the box with the iD4 MKII?

The iD4 MKII comes with just the interface unit itself along with a USB-C cable. No recording software, desktop brackets, or other extras are included. You’ll need to provide your own mic cables, instruments, headphones, etc.

Does this interface work with iPads/iOS or Android devices?

Yes, the iD4 MKII is compatible with iPads and Android tablets via its USB-C connection. This allows you to record on the go without a computer.

Can I use condenser microphones with this interface?

Yes, the iD4 MKII provides +48V phantom power to allow use of condenser mics. Just press the “48V” button on the front panel to enable power.

What is the difference between the TRS and XLR inputs?

The XLR inputs are designed for microphones while the 1/4″ TRS inputs allow you to connect line-level sources like synthesizers, drum machines, or external preamps.

Does this interface support audio loopback?

Yes, the iD4 MKII has internal loopback routing that allows you to record computer audio into your DAW or live stream audio without additional cables.

How durable is this interface for traveling/gigging?

With its metal construction, the iD4 MKII is built to last for life on the road. It’s more rugged than plastic interfaces for traveling between studios, gigs, or recording locations.

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