M-Audio AIR|HUB Review

The M-Audio AIR|HUB is a 4-port USB audio interface that allows you to connect instruments, microphones, and other audio devices to your computer. It’s an affordable option for home studio recording, podcasting, streaming, and more. In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the features and performance of the AIR|HUB to help you decide if it’s the right audio interface for your needs.

Key Features

• 4×4 USB audio interface with 4 combo inputs and 4 outputs
• 24-bit/192kHz resolution for high-quality audio
• MIDI I/O for connecting keyboards and controllers -phantom power for condenser microphones
• Direct Monitoring to hear your input audio without latency
• Mix control for blending and adjusting input levels
• Bus-powered for portability – no external power required
• Works with Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices

Inputs and Outputs

The M-Audio AIR|HUB provides 4 combo inputs that can accept either XLR or 1/4″ connections. This allows you to connect professional microphones, guitars, keyboards, and other instruments. Each input has an adjustable gain knob and switch for phantom power if needed for condenser mics. There are also 4 line-level outputs to route audio to speakers, headphones, or external mixers.

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A key feature of the AIR|HUB is its Direct Monitoring capability. This allows you to listen to your inputs with near zero latency, which is vital for live playing and tracking. There is a mixer knob for each input to blend between the direct input and playback from your computer.

The interface can handle two independent stereo streams, so you can record up to 4 mono channels simultaneously. The 24-bit/192kHz resolution provides professional-quality audio fidelity.

Ease of Use and Setup

Setting up the M-Audio AIR|HUB is quick and easy across various devices and operating systems. It’s bus-powered via USB so no external power is required. Just download the drivers, connect to your computer via USB, and you’re ready to start recording. The interface automatically works with standard music production software like Pro Tools, Ableton, Logic, etc.

The front panel offers easy access to the gain knobs, phantom power, and direct monitoring mixers for each input. Status LEDs provide visual feedback that your inputs are connected properly. The main outputs have their own volume knob as well. The compact plastic chassis weighs under one pound for easy portability.

Performance and Sound Quality

In terms of audio performance, the AIR|HUB holds its own against more expensive options. The clarity and detail in the recordings is impressive for a USB interface at this price. The 192kHz sampling and 24-bit depth allow you to capture nuances and subtleties in any audio source.

The microphone preamps provide plenty of gain for even quiet sources and have low self-noise. Instruments and vocals come through with pleasing warmth yet accuracy. The direct monitoring outputs let you record confidently without distracting latency. There are also dedicated headphone and main mix outputs for flexibility.

While not perfect, the sound quality is certainly professional grade. The AIR|HUB captures clean, accurate audio worthy of any home or project studio. The noise floor is respectable and it has plenty of headroom before peaking or distortion. For the price, it punches well above its weight.

Connectivity and Compatibility

The plug-and-play USB connectivity of the AIR|HUB makes it convenient to use with laptops, desktops, and mobile devices. It’s class compliant on both Windows and Mac operating systems with no drivers required. You can also use it with iOS and Android tablets and phones with the proper OS support and adapters.

The MIDI input and output let you connect keyboards, drum machines, and other devices. This expands the utility of the AIR|HUB beyond just an audio interface. However, it lacks more advanced connectivity options like ADAT, S/PDIF, or Thunderbolt. But for the target home studio audience, the streamlined USB setup will be sufficient.

Who It’s For

The M-Audio AIR|HUB is an ideal choice for beginner and intermediate musicians, podcasters, and content creators. It has all the core functionality for basic recording needs at an affordable price point. The 4 inputs give enough flexibility for small bands or solo performers. The compact design also makes it easy to toss in your bag for mobile recording.

More advanced users may want additional I/O channels or extras like instrument inputs and digital connectivity. But for basic home and project studio work, the AIR|HUB has you covered. It’s a cost-effective way to take the first step into computer-based recording, streaming, and content creation.

Drawbacks

There are a few limitations to note with the AIR|HUB relative to higher-end interfaces:

• Only 4 inputs/outputs – not ideal for larger bands
• No digital connectivity (ADAT, S/PDIF)
• No high-impedance instrument inputs
• Plastic construction feels cheaper
• Limited mixing/routing options
• No included recording software

Additionally, Mac users have reported some driver issues and conflicts if also running other audio interfaces. So Mac compatibility may be a bit buggy.

Alternatives

If the limitations of the AIR|HUB don’t work for you, here are some alternatives to consider at different price points:

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 ($159)

• Step up to 2nd Gen Scarlett for better quality
• More metal construction
• Instrument inputs

Presonus AudioBox 96 ($199)

• 96kHz sample rate
• Studio One DAW included
• Great bundled software

Audient EVO 4 ($249)

• Pro-level build and sound quality
• Burr-Brown converter chips
• Sturdy metal housing

Universal Audio Volt 276 ($399)

• UA pedigree and sound
• Unison mic preamps
• More advanced connectivity

The M-Audio AIR|HUB is a remarkably capable starting point, but for more advanced recording projects, you may need to look at one of the higher tier options for more I/O, controls, and overall quality. The AIR|HUB is perfect for beginners but leaves room to grow into higher end interfaces.

Verdict

The M-Audio AIR|HUB earns an overall rating of 4/5 stars. For the price, it packs a punch in terms of premium sound quality and flexibility. It has everything needed for basic home recording and content creation in a compact and easy-to-use form factor.

Some more advanced users may desire additional inputs, digital connectivity, or higher end construction. But in terms of value for money, the AIR|HUB delivers professional 24-bit/192kHz audio and universal compatibility at an unbeatable price.

If you’re looking to get started with computer-based recording and aren’t ready to invest heavily, the M-Audio AIR|HUB is easy to recommend. With its great sound, easy setup, and affordable price, it’s one of the best budget USB audio interfaces available for home studio beginners.

Conclusion

The M-Audio AIR|HUB 4×4 USB Interface provides an impressive amount of quality and versatility given its affordable price point. It’s a great starting point for home recording, podcasting, streaming, or mobile content creation. While it lacks some bells and whistles of higher-end models, the core performance and sound quality is very solid.

If you need more than 4 inputs or have more advanced connectivity needs, you may need to look at pricier alternatives. But for beginner and intermediate use cases, the M-Audio AIR|HUB gets the job done admirably. For around $100, it’s hard to find a better USB interface that nails the basics as well as the AIR|HUB.

FAQ

What’s the latency like?

With direct monitoring enabled, the latency is imperceptible for live playing and tracking purposes. For software monitoring, the latency depends on buffer settings but is comparable to other interfaces in this class.

Does it work with iOS/Android?

Yes, with the proper OS support and adapters for the USB-C port on mobile devices. The class compliant USB implementation provides plug-and-play functionality.

Is a power supply included?

No, the AIR|HUB is bus-powered via USB so no external power supply is needed. Just connect it directly to your computer or mobile device.

How many microphones can be used at once?

The 4 combo inputs allow you to connect up to 4 microphones simultaneously. However, only two channels can be recorded at once unless using software that supports loopback.

Can I use both XLR and 1/4″ inputs together?

Yes, the combo jacks accept either type of connection so you can use both XLR mics and 1/4″ instruments/line devices.

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