Product Description for the M-Audio Fast Track Ultra with Pro Tools M-Powered 9

The Fast Track® Ultra 8 x 8 audio/MIDI interface takes M-Audio’s acclaimed mobile recording line to the next level with high-speed USB 2.0 connectivity, MX Core™ DSP mixer and four preamps with award-winning Octane™ technology. Featuring both analog and digital I/O, it allows recording on all eight channels simultaneously with pristine 24-bit/96kHz fidelity—while M-Audio’s mature low-latency drivers ensure rock-solid stability and performance. The on-board MX Core™ DSP mixer processes eight hardware inputs and eight software returns to the eight hardware outputs, delivering flexible routing and monitoring with delay and reverb. Compatible with most major audio software*, Fast Track Ultra lets you record the way you want—in the studio or on the go.

Built-in Effects Processing

Tired of tracking vocals and instruments dry? Fast Track Ultra features MX Core DSP technology that gives you reverb and delay on the headphone outputs with separate sends for every channel. Adding effects is an easy way to inspire creativity and infuse a performance with new energy—without taxing your CPU resources.

Make the Connection

Fast Track Ultra provides a complete recording solution, with six channels of analog inputs and outputs plus 2-channel digital S/PDIF I/O. Unlike most USB interfaces, it features two dedicated inserts on the first two channels, giving you the ability to insert outboard processing before A/D conversion. Easy connection via a single USB 2.0 cable delivers both audio and MIDI communication with your computer. Compatibility with most major audio software, means seamless integration into any studio setup.

MX Core DSP Technology for Sophisticated Channel Routing

The Fast Track Ultra makes it easy to create multiple monitor mixes when recording other musicians. The robust MX Core™ mixer employs an array of eight individual DSP cores to deliver near-zero latency and a matrix for sophisticated channel routing options—accessible via an intuitive control panel that utilizes a separate mixer for each pair of outputs. The mixer expands the total I/O to an impressive 16 x 8 configuration, allowing you to connect synths and outboard gear to any of the interface’s hardware inputs, then mix them with the eight audio streams coming from your computer.

Professional Octane Preamp Technology

The quality of your recordings is only as good as the initial signal. The Fast Track Ultra features four preamps with multi-award-winning M-Audio Octane™ technology, creating a premium front end that delivers amazing audio clarity. You get professional, low-noise, high-gain preamplification with enough channels for a variety of miking applications. Features include +48V phantom power for condenser mics, signal/peak LED indicator lights and a pull-out gain knob that activates a 20dB pad for recording at high volumes. See why world-class artists choose the M-Audio Octane preamp.

Dual Headphone Amp

Whether you usually track vocals or an ensemble, you’re likely to need multiple headphone mixes. Fast Track Ultra has two completely independent headphone outputs so you can take advantage of the DSP mixer’s powerful routing options and create the right mix for your performers—complete with reverb and delay.

The Perfect Combination

Apple's latest MacBook and MacBook Air laptops don't include FireWire connectivity—the latest models are all about USB 2.0. If you want to make music with a MacBook, the Fast Track Ultra high-speed USB 2.0 interface delivers the perfect solution. Whether you’re a musician, producer or DJ, the powerful combination of Apple and M-Audio gives you everything you need to put together a high-powered personal studio.