Donner Livejack-M USB Audio Interface Review

The Donner Livejack-M is a compact and portable USB audio interface designed for musicians, podcasters, and content creators looking to record high-quality audio on their computers. In this in-depth review, we will examine the features, performance, and value of the Livejack-M to help you determine if it is the right audio interface for your needs.

Overview of the Donner Livejack-M

The Donner Livejack-M is an extremely affordable 2 input/2 output USB audio interface. It allows you to connect professional microphones, instruments, and other audio gear to your computer for recording, podcasting, live streaming, and more.

Some key features and specifications:

• 2 x XLR/TRS combo inputs with phantom power
• 2 x TRS balanced outputs
• 24-bit/192kHz audio resolution
• Compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android
• Small and portable form factor
• No drivers required

Despite the low price point, the Livejack-M provides high-quality Cirrus Logic AD/DA converters and a robust metal construction. It’s powered entirely via the USB bus, making it easy to connect to laptops and mobile devices.

Setting Up the Livejack-M

One of the best aspects of the Livejack-M is how quick and easy it is to get up and running. There are no drivers to install – it’s plug and play with any modern system.

To get started, simply connect the Livejack-M to your computer using the included USB-C to USB-A cable. The LEDs on the front will light up indicating the unit is powered on.

No products found.

The two combo inputs on the front can accept either XLR or 1/4″ TRS connections, allowing you to connect professional mics and instruments. Plus, each input has its own gain control and phantom power switch for condenser microphones.

On the back, there are two balanced 1/4″ TRS outputs to connect to speakers, headphones, or external mixing consoles. The output knob controls the level of both outputs simultaneously.

Once connected, the Livejack-M will be available to select as the input/output device within your recording software or audio workstation. The settings can usually be accessed in the preferences or audio settings menu.

Audio Quality

Given the affordable price, I was skeptical whether the Donner Livejack-M could deliver decent audio quality. However, testing revealed that the audio interface captures audio cleanly and accurately.

The Cirrus Logic CODEC delivers up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution, which is better than CD-quality. While recording vocals and acoustic instruments, the preamps provided plenty of gain without adding noise or distortion. The recordings were crisp, detailed, and captured the true character of the instruments.

For monitoring, the outputs sounded full, balanced, and noise-free. The output knob also allows you to adjust the volume comfortably across a range of headphones or powered monitors.

Overall, the conversion quality lived up to interfaces costing twice as much. The Livejack-M captures audio transparently without coloration, making it ideal for music recording and production.

Features and Performance

Here are some of the key features and capabilities of the Livejack-M during testing:

• Low Latency Monitoring: Enables real-time monitoring with minimal delay, which is essential for live playing and tracking.
• Phantom Power: Provides 48V phantom power for using condenser microphones. Worked reliably with high-quality large diaphragm mics.
• Direct Monitoring: Allows you to directly monitor the input signal without latency for perfect sync with software monitoring.
• Compatibility: I tested the interface on Windows, Mac, iOS devices, and Android successfully. Worked flawlessly with all major digital audio workstation (DAW) software.
• Construction: The rugged metal case feels durable enough for regular transport without worries of damage. Rubber feet prevent slips and shocks.

Overall, the Livejack-M performed well across a range of recording sessions, podcast recordings, and live playing scenarios. The combo inputs, gain control, and phantom power provide flexibility for connecting any audio gear.

Value for Money

Priced at just $59, the Donner Livejack-M provides outstanding value compared to competing interfaces. Models from Focusrite, Presonus, and Native Instruments can cost up to 4-5 times more with similar specs.

You simply won’t find another compact 2 input/2 output USB interface with this sound quality and features at this price point. It doesn’t feel or sound cheap, but rather a premium product without the markup.

For beginner musicians, podcasters, and home studio owners on a tight budget, the Livejack-M is a phenomenal bargain.

Even professionals would appreciate it as affordable backup interface or for location recordings. Overall, it’s one of the best values on the market in terms of performance per dollar.

Pros and Cons

Here’s a summary of the main pros and cons that emerged during testing:

Pros

• Extremely affordable price
• Great audio quality and conversion
• Easy plug and play operation
• Phantom power for condenser mics
• Inputs for XLR or 1/4″ connections
• Rugged metal construction

Cons

• No 5-pin MIDI input
• No pad switch for line/mic signals
• Headphone volume could be louder

Overall, the pros easily outweigh the few minor cons based on the price point. For all it offers at just $59, any shortcomings are easy to overlook.

Conclusion and Recommendation

The Donner Livejack-M punchs far above its weight class, providing pro-level sound and versatility at a beginner-friendly price point.

It’s the ideal choice for anyone looking to unlock studio-quality recording, podcasting, and live streaming on their computer without breaking the bank.

Thanks to its great conversion quality, responsive controls, and cross-platform compatibility, the Livejack-M is a smart investment that will provide years of flawless service.

For both amateurs and professionals on a budget, the Donner Livejack-M is easy to recommend for a compact, great-sounding audio interface.

FAQs

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the Donner Livejack-M:

What driver does the Livejack-M use?

The Livejack-M is plug and play, meaning it doesn’t require any special drivers. It uses your operating system’s standard USB audio drivers.

Does it work with iPhones/iPads?

Yes, it will work seamlessly with iOS devices that support USB audio interfaces. You may need the Apple Camera Connection Kit.

Can I use ribbon microphones with it?

Unfortunately ribbon microphones require a lot of gain, so the preamps in the Livejack-M may not provide enough for them. Condenser and dynamic mics are recommended.

Is the Livejack-M compatible with OBS or streaming software?

Absolutely, you can select the Livejack-M interface within OBS, Streamlabs, or any other recording/streaming software as the input and output device.

Does it come with any recording software included?

No, you’ll need to get your own DAW recording software like Ableton, Garageband, Reaper, etc. The interface will work with any recording software.

What is the latency? Is it good for live monitoring?

The latency is very low, around 10-15ms on modern systems. This makes it great for live monitoring and playing instruments in real-time.

No products found.