iConnectivity iConnectAudio4+

Started by Elantric, January 23, 2014, 12:34:24 PM

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Elantric

 IconnectAUDIO 4+ will not ship until Summer 2014 - which probably means Spring 2015 using our calenders

https://iconnectivity.com/




http://iconnectivity.com/media/pressreleases/2014/iConnectAUDIO4+_pressrelease2014.pdf


– iConnectivity™, developer of
innovative interfaces for musicians, previewed iConnectAUDIO4+™, their next-generation audio
and MIDI interface for Mac, PC, and iOS.

iConnectAUDIO4+ is a multi-host audio and MIDI interface for MAC, PC, and iOS that combines
several of iConnectivity's innovative technologies in a uniquely flexible device.

iConnectAUDIO4+'s Multi-Host technology supports multiple audio and MIDI peripherals, and
also multiple computing devices, all at once. This allows any combination of up to 2 Mac, PC, and
iOS devices to share iConnectAUDIO4+'s I/O.

iConnectivity's multi-host and Audio & MIDI passThru technologies bridge iOS, Macs, and PCs in
a professional environment, with many practical applications. Control a virtual instrument (or any
music program) on one computer device from another one. Audio and MIDI flow back and forth
without extra cables, and with no audio degradation. All the computer devices act like a single
integrated machine.

The Host Port is another unique technology. Many peripherals use USB for MIDI I/O, but an iOS
device can only access one of them with its single port. The iConnnectAUDIO4+ Host Port
eliminates that limitation by accommodating several Class-Compliant USB MIDI devices at the
same time.

iConnectivity's iConfig software for iOS, MAC, PC (included) offers complete control over
iConnectAUDIO4+'s I/O, providing direct control over audio and MIDI routing. Snapshots are then
stored in flash memory on the device.ConnectAUDIO4+ features at a glance:

• Multi-Host & Host Port - use 2 computer devices (Mac/PC/iOS) at the same time. Or use 1
computing device with several and/or MIDI peripherals (with Class-compliant devices
connected to a powered USB hub.)
• Audio and MIDI passThru™ routes audio digitally between two computing devices.
• 4 XLR – ¼" TRS combo analog inputs.
• 4 ¼" TRS balanced analog outputs.
• 1 X 1 regular MIDI in/out.
• iConfig software (Mac, Windows, iOS) makes it simple to set up filtering/routing/merging
scenes – which are also stored in flash memory on the device.
• High-resolution audio - up to 24-bit/96kHz AD/DA conversion.
• USB audio and MIDI Class-Compliant for easy, plug-and-play set-up.
• Charges an iOS device.

iConnectAUDIO4+ is expected to be available at iConnectivity resellers worldwide mid-2014. Its
MSRP and projected street price are TBD. For more information please visit
www.iConnectivity.com or your favorite iConnectivity reseller.

Elantric

#1
QuoteThe Host Port is another unique technology. Many peripherals use USB for MIDI I/O, but an iOS
device can only access one of them with its single port. The iConnnectAUDIO4+ Host Port
eliminates that limitation by accommodating several Class-Compliant USB MIDI devices at the
same time.

FWIW - I'm already connecting several USB MIDI devices to my iPad Air here - Ive had 5 USB MIDI devices all working simultaneously - along with low latency stereo 24bit Audio I/O:

Use Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 + Fishman Tripleplay with iPad on Battery Power
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=10323.0

rolandvg99

Probably. Still waiting for my iConnectMIDI 4+. While their products are great they suffer from the same Apple induced dictatorship inspired approval lag every one else try to battle. I would ditch my iPad today if only Google could get their act together when it comes to Android and low latency audio.


Looks great though. Thx for sharing.
To V or not to V: That is the question.

My little Soundcloud corner

Elantric

#3
QuoteI would ditch my iPad today if only Google could get their act together when it comes to Android and low latency audio.

Same here actually - i was drinking the Android 4.1 Low Latency koolaid 2012-2013, but grew tired of the slow development and beta testing crashing my Android devices.
http://createdigitalmusic.com/2013/05/why-mobile-low-latency-is-hard-explained-by-google-galaxy-nexus-still-android-of-choice/
Today (Jan 2014) Android audio is no better than it was in 2012 - and "Low Latency Android Audio" is just another oxymoron like "military intelligence".


These Android Music apps are as good as it gets at this hour 
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.extreamsd.aemobile&hl=en


https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.levien.synthesizer

thebrushwithin

Here is the iConnect Audio info:
http://iconnectivity.com/iConnectAudio4plus

This may be more useful for live use, I just wish they could get these wonderful gizmos to the end user on a more timely basis.

tomtheguitarguy

#5
Quote from:  thebrushwithin on February 11, 2014, 11:12:25 AM
Here is the iConnect Audio info:
http://iconnectivity.com/iConnectAudio4plus

This may be more useful for live use, I just wish they could get these wonderful gizmos to the end user on a more timely basis.

We'll probably be able to get it by 2016 . . .
http://www.tomtheguitarguy.com ~ http://www.tomcatsband.com
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G & L Will Ray Signature ASAT w/ Hipshot B Bender
JTV-69 James Tyler Variax
Fishman TriplePlay ~ Roland GR-55
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Bose L1 Classic

GuitarBuilder

I may have read this wrong, but it would seem that the iConnectAudio4+ also has a Host USB port:
"There's no-one left alive, it must be a draw"  Peter Gabriel 1973

Elantric

#7
Thanks! I missed this based upon early product announcements

I just wish they could deliver product.


http://discchord.com/blog/2014/1/24/namm2014-iconnectaudio4.html
NAMM2014: iConnectAUDIO4+
FRIDAY, JANUARY 24, 2014 AT 9:30AM BY TIM WEBB
iConnectivity has announced the iConnectAUDIO4+, an audio interface that can share sources among multiple computers or iDevices. This will include their Audio passThru Technology, which provides a direct digital audio stream between connected iDevices and computers.


By a strange coincidence they announced this yesterday on the 1 year anniversary of when they announced the iConnectMIDI4+; which has still failed to materialize. Optimistically iConnectivity expect to release the iConnnectAUDIO4+ in mid-2014, price to be determined, but they have not responded to inquiries on when they now hope to actually release the iConnectMIDI4+ originally slated for Q1 2013.

iConnectAUDIO4+

ConnectAUDIO4+redefines the audio interface with new dimensions of connectivity. Connect your studio completely to your iOS devices, independent of your Mac or PC. Or integrate your iOS device seamlessly into your DAW, like a touch-sensitive plugin. It's the most flexible interface on the planet.

Mics, instruments, line ins, MIDI, iOS, Mac, PC, high resolution digital audio...one audio interface unites them all. The music data superhighway of the future is here.

Features at a glance:
Multi-Host & Host Port - use 2 computer devices (Mac/PC/iOS) at the same time. Or use 1 computing device and multiple MIDI peripherals (with Class-compliant devices connected to a powered USB hub.)
Audio passThru™ routes audio digitally between two computing devices.
4 XLR – ¼" TRS combo analog inputs
4 ¼" TRS balanced analog outputs
Headphone output with independent mix
1 X 1 MIDI DIN in/out
iConfig software (Mac, Windows, iOS) makes it simple to set up filtering/routing/merging scenes – which are also stored in flash memory on the device
High-resolution audio - up to 24-bit/96kHz AD/DA conversion
USB audio and MIDI Class-Compliant
Charges an iOS device
The key difference between the iConnect4+s is that the MIDI version is an elaborate MIDI hub with just Audio passThru for audio, and this Audio4+ is specifically for audio with only 1 set of MIDI In/Outs. You'll have to pick which one is more important to your needs, as I can't imagine a way to use these in tandem. Perhaps an iConnect8+ will combine the two at some point, but let's just hope they can get these out the door!

Ringleader

#8
Apparently this was announced at winter NAMM but I just first saw it today. Once released, this will be the only audio interface with device charging that officially supports the use of an external USB hub for multiple external USB/midi controller devices (FTP, etc.), not to mention other unique features. It looks absolutely perfect and I'm counting the days until it is released. Finally, no more compromises!!!

http://www.iconnectivity.com/iConnectAudio4plus

Ringleader

#9
Ha sorry about the other thread, I didn't think to look in this section. I'm late to the party as usual.  :) Can't wait for this sucker!!

Vade

Drachen; Fender FTP Strat w/internal GK-3, Godin xtSA w/FTP, Boss GP-10, VoiceLive 3, Scarlett 18i8, ZBox IQ01, On-Lap 1502i, D:fine 4088, 4E Dual Axis Exp Pedal, VoiceSolo FX-150, Yamaha DXR 10, Gem. M2 Flute, Special 20 Harmonicas. Fender Deluxe Reverb Mahogany Cane.

https://soundcloud.com/vadie

GuitarBuilder

I'm with Elantric - Spring 2015 at best.
"There's no-one left alive, it must be a draw"  Peter Gabriel 1973

Vade

#12
Very possibly but at least they're still working on it. Let's just hope it comes in usb class compliant unlike the iCM4+.

The Host Port is another unique technology. Many peripherals use USB for MIDI I/O, but an iOS
device can only access one of them with its single port. The iConnnectAUDIO4+ Host Port
eliminates that limitation by accommodating several Class-Compliant USB MIDI devices at the
same time.

Drachen; Fender FTP Strat w/internal GK-3, Godin xtSA w/FTP, Boss GP-10, VoiceLive 3, Scarlett 18i8, ZBox IQ01, On-Lap 1502i, D:fine 4088, 4E Dual Axis Exp Pedal, VoiceSolo FX-150, Yamaha DXR 10, Gem. M2 Flute, Special 20 Harmonicas. Fender Deluxe Reverb Mahogany Cane.

https://soundcloud.com/vadie

Elantric

#13
Quote
Let's just hope it comes in usb class compliant unlike the iCM4+.

Not Following you - do you mean "USB CLASS COMPLIANT AUDIO INTERFACE?
The USB Host ports on both iConnectMIDI4+ and iConnectAudio4+ have identical specs.
Neither iConnectAudio 4+ or iConnectMIDI4+ support third party USB Audio Interfaces on their USB Host ports.

On my iConectMIDI 4+ I can use any USB Class Compliant MIDI Interface on its USB Host Port - including USB MIDI Keyboards, Korg NanoKontrol, and the Fishman TriplePlay USB Receiver.
http://www.iconnectivity.com/iConnectMIDI4plus
QuoteSupports 8 additional MIDI devices via USB Host Port + Powered USB Hub



Many MIDI devices include a USB port for input/output of MIDI. iConnectMIDI4+ accommodates for this by addition of a USB host port that allows musicians to integrate their USB MIDI devices seamlessly. iConnectMIDI4+'s MIDI host port supports up to 8 USB MIDI synths, controllers, etc. enabling all computing devices that are connected to iConnectMIDI4+ to send and receive MIDI from devices that are connected to its USB host port.

Vade

@Not Following you - do you mean "USB CLASS COMPLIANT AUDIO INTERFACE?

The fact that the iConnectMIDI4+ (iCM4) doesn't transmit audio over the usb host is the major drawback I see in their implementation. I'll defer to you when it comes to describing that but when I said "usb class compliant" I meant that I'd like the usb port to do anything a typical PC usb port would do; including transmitting audio. As it is I can't connect an interface such as my Scarlett 2i2 to a iCM4 hub; if I'm understanding its functionality correctly. IIRC the original plan for the iConnect series was to be fully "usb compliant" but they ran into implementation issues which made it easier for them to limit the usb functions. When I read the description of the iConnectAUDIO4+ (iCA4) it does seem they're planning to limit the usb host in the same way and it'd be nice if it were not limited in function, although it does seem to be more important for the iCM4 to have full function, since the iCA4 won't need an interface connected to the hub. I honestly can't think of an actual need that would be met by iCA4 being fully compliant but it'd be nice if there were just some industry standards that were met as a matter of course. Less memorization of product idiosyncrasies and "hoops" to be jumped through. 
Drachen; Fender FTP Strat w/internal GK-3, Godin xtSA w/FTP, Boss GP-10, VoiceLive 3, Scarlett 18i8, ZBox IQ01, On-Lap 1502i, D:fine 4088, 4E Dual Axis Exp Pedal, VoiceSolo FX-150, Yamaha DXR 10, Gem. M2 Flute, Special 20 Harmonicas. Fender Deluxe Reverb Mahogany Cane.

https://soundcloud.com/vadie

Elantric

#15
QuoteThe fact that the iConnectMIDI4+ (iCM4) doesn't transmit audio over the usb host is the major drawback I see in their implementation. I'll defer to you when it comes to describing that but when I said "usb class compliant" I meant that I'd like the usb port to do anything a typical PC usb port would do; including transmitting audio.
Re-read the specs at the iConnectivity web site.
http://iconnectivity.com/iConnectAUDIO4plus

FWIW - the soon to be released iConnectAUDIO 4+ (like the iConnectMIDI4+) will NOT allow connection to external Audio devices.
It only works with USB Class Compliant MIDI devices

On iConnectAUDIO 4+ , you must employ its own built in 4x4 Audio Interface which allows audio pass through to USB connected ipads and  Macs   

QuoteAs it is I can't connect an interface such as my Scarlett 2i2 to a iCM4 hub;
True
But I already connect FTP+ USB MIDi Keyboard+Korg NanoControl+Scarlet 2i4 for audio and 5 pin MIDI I/O to my iPad Air using a powered USB Hub  - details here:
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=10323.0


QuoteI honestly can't think of an actual need that would be met by iCA4 being fully compliant but it'd be nice if there were just some industry standards that were met as a matter of course. Less memorization of product idiosyncrasies and "hoops" to be jumped through. 

Its more a restriction of IOS - which does not allow multiple "Aggregate Audio Devices" 


Here is a link to thread with links to docs that describe the complete USB Audio Spec, and USB Class Compliance and Device Class
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=11781.msg85207#msg85207

http://www.usb.org/developers/docs/devclass_docs/midi10.pdf


http://www.usb.org/developers/docs/devclass_docs/BasicAudioDevice-10.zip

http://www.usb.org/developers/docs/devclass_docs/

Vade

I have my FTP passing through the iCM4 to my iPad as well and I actually followed your guide and have all the bits and pieces I need to connect my Scarlett 2i2 to my iPad. The lack of iPad charging is kind of a non starter for me though. I just need to figure out how much I want an interface feeding my iPad when I already have the GP-10 and VL3 for amp modeling. Picking up the iCA4 and using it with the iCM4 is just one of the possibilities I'm mulling over although I'm not quite sure how I'd combine them without losing the usb hub and the FTP. Time for a bit more research...
Drachen; Fender FTP Strat w/internal GK-3, Godin xtSA w/FTP, Boss GP-10, VoiceLive 3, Scarlett 18i8, ZBox IQ01, On-Lap 1502i, D:fine 4088, 4E Dual Axis Exp Pedal, VoiceSolo FX-150, Yamaha DXR 10, Gem. M2 Flute, Special 20 Harmonicas. Fender Deluxe Reverb Mahogany Cane.

https://soundcloud.com/vadie

Elantric

#17
QuoteThe lack of iPad charging is kind of a non starter for me though

IMHO -seeking an Audio interface with the requirement to charge iPad on AC power while playing at the gig simply provides more potential for Ground Loop Hum and noise. 

In real world I can play my FTP with iPad Air for a 3 hour gig and still have 70% battery left on iPad Air.

However, once you hear the lower noise floor (particularly with Single Coil PU Guitars! ) and higher dynamic range of using your 24 bit Audio Interface on 100% battery power - its tough to go back to AC Power!

Vade

#18
My iCM4 is sort of at the conceptual heart of my system routing all the MIDI between the SoftStep 2, FTP, VL3, iPad etc. I don't have any problems with GL hum here in my studio but out on the road is an unexplored mystery to me. Everything in my mobile rig is powered from one cord though so perhaps that's a better place to think about eliminating hum rather than tearing it all apart and redesigning my rig.

Drachen; Fender FTP Strat w/internal GK-3, Godin xtSA w/FTP, Boss GP-10, VoiceLive 3, Scarlett 18i8, ZBox IQ01, On-Lap 1502i, D:fine 4088, 4E Dual Axis Exp Pedal, VoiceSolo FX-150, Yamaha DXR 10, Gem. M2 Flute, Special 20 Harmonicas. Fender Deluxe Reverb Mahogany Cane.

https://soundcloud.com/vadie

Elantric

#19
As soon as you feed an external "house PA" thats where "Ground Loops" are likely to manifest.

And passing MIDI between devices will not reveal the Ground loop - due to the optical galvanic isolation built into most MIDI interfaces 

for Audio, be sure you have gear that provides XLR Out with Ground Lift switch - and/or use a 100% Passive DI box

Vade

#20
My VL3 has a ground lift and is the last point before audio goes out for amplification. It has xlr outs but I'm currently using the headphone out to my VoiceSolo FX-150 and then out to PA via xlr. Since my Yamaha DXR 10 PA speaker is powered by that same single cord as the rest of the rig perhaps that's why I'm not experiencing any hum. Sounds like I can work around the hum issue in any case. No system is perfect so I may just have to trade MIDI function for battery quiet/dynamic range.

Edit:
@Its more a restriction of IOS - which does not allow multiple "Aggregate Audio Devices"

Hmmm. That's a new one for me although I'll have to get back to all that usb goodness as my MIDI routing is just more pressing and a good ol practice session as the curtains are drawn against the dark and winters chill sounds just about perfect.
Drachen; Fender FTP Strat w/internal GK-3, Godin xtSA w/FTP, Boss GP-10, VoiceLive 3, Scarlett 18i8, ZBox IQ01, On-Lap 1502i, D:fine 4088, 4E Dual Axis Exp Pedal, VoiceSolo FX-150, Yamaha DXR 10, Gem. M2 Flute, Special 20 Harmonicas. Fender Deluxe Reverb Mahogany Cane.

https://soundcloud.com/vadie

Elantric

#21
https://www.facebook.com/iConnectivityAudioMIDI







IconnectAUDIO 4+  Audio Performance specs
http://www.iconnectivity.com/iConnectAUDIO4plus#tabs-2
iConnectAUDIO4+ Audio + MIDI Interface Features
Multi-host Device ports – use 2 computer devices (Mac/PC/iOS) at the same time
Audio passThru™ routes audio digitally between computer devices
Host port for connecting up to 8 MIDI peripherals (with Class-compliant devices connected to a powered hub)
4 XLR ¼" TRS combo analog inputs, each with individual +48V phantom power toggle
4 ¼" TRS balanced analog outputs
¼" Headphone output with independent mix
29 routable MIDI ports: Mac, PC, iOS, 5 pin MIDI DIN and class compliant USB MIDI devices
1 X 1 MIDI DIN in/out
iConfig software (Mac, Windows, iOS) makes it simple to set up filtering/routing/merging
High-resolution audio - up to 24-bit/96kHz AD/DA conversion
USB audio and MIDI Class-Compliant – no drivers needed
Charges an iOS device
iConnectAUDIO4+ Audio Specifications
Microphone Inputs   Line Inputs (Balanced)   Instrument Inputs
Gain: 0- 60 dB (1 dB steps)
Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 20kHz
SNR: 110dB (1kHz, 1.2 Vrms, BW: 22Hz-22kHz, A-weighting, Unity Gain)
THD+N: -99 dB (1kHz, 1.2 Vrms, BW: 22Hz-22kHz, A-weighting, Unity Gain)
Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 20kHz
SNR: 111 dB (1kHz, 10 Vrms, BW: 22Hz-22kHz, A-weighting)
THD+N: -99 dB (1kHz, 1.2 Vrms, BW: 22Hz-22kHz, A-weighting)
Maximum input level: 11 Vrms, 23 dBu, 21 dBV (1kHz, BW: 22Hz-22kHz, A-weighting, 1% THD+N, SNR=116 dB)
Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 20kHz
SNR: 95 dB (1kHz, 5 Vrms, BW: 22Hz-22kHz, A-weighting)
THD+N: -92 dB (1kHz, 5 Vrms, BW: 22Hz-22kHz, A-weighting)
Maximum input level: 10 Vrms, 22 dBu, 20 dBV (1kHz, BW: 22Hz-22kHz, A-weighting, 1% THD+N, SNR= 94 dB)
Line Outputs   Headphone   Digital Performance
Maximum Output Level: 13 dBu, 11 dBV, 3.6 Vrms
SNR: 115 dB (1kHz, BW: 22Hz-22kHz, A-weighting)
THD+N: -112 dB (1kHz, BW: 22Hz-22kHz, A-weighting)
SNR: 100 dB (1kHz, BW: 22Hz-22kHz, A-weighting)
THD+N: -100 dB (1kHz, BW: 22Hz-22kHz, A-weighting)
Power output into 30 Ohms per channel: 73 mW per channel
24-bit resolution
A-D Dynamic Range:102dB (Single-ended)
D-A Dynamic Range:106dB
Supported sample rates: 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, and 96 kHz


Ringleader

Where do you see it shipping in limited numbers? If you know where I can order one, please let me know!

Elantric

#23
QuoteWhere do you see it shipping in limited numbers? If you know where I can order one, please let me know!

https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=10310.msg100043;topicseen#msg100043

zenartist wrote>
Quoteon a good note I get #2 Iconnectaudio4+  from Sweetwater  and they have been shipped from iConnectivity in Canada to Sweetwater 


Read all recent posts

https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?action=recent

zenartist

Just got a call from Sweetwater that they will be in on March 2  cant wait