Creating music on your computer has never been easier. One of the key items you’ll need is an audio interface, and the best audio interface for Studio One is the AudioBox USB 96. Both Studio One and the AudioBox are made by PreSonus, who are trusted and respected throughout the world of recording and music production.
With this interface you can guarantee incredibly high-quality audio performance in your home studio. Have you ever been tempted to produce your own music, or even to make your own album? The AudioBox USB 96 gives you that chance. So let’s see what it’s all about.
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 Audio Interface
The PreSonus AudioBox series was first introduced in 2008 as an audio/MIDI interface that was designed to maximize the audio quality in a home studio set-up. This interface was upgraded to the AudioBox VSL series which improved the signal processing and low latency mixing of the original.
Eventually, all of these advancements led to the AudioBox USB 96, which was first released in 2017. All of the phenomenal developments in the AudioBox series came together in the USB 96 to offer a high-quality, high-standard audio interface system.
The AudioBox USB 96 is perfect for use in a home studio because it can be connected to a desktop computer as well as a laptop. It can be used with almost any type of recording software and is compatible with both Mac and Windows. There are multiple inputs on the device – for microphones, instruments and studio monitors, so you’re not limited to what music you can create and record.
- Value-packed 2-channel USB 2.0 interface for personal and portable recording.
- 2 high-quality Class-A mic preamps make it easy to get a great sound.
- 2 high-headroom instrument inputs to record guitar, bass, and your favorite line-level devices, plus...
PreSonus Studio One Artist Included
It’s compact size also makes it ideal for travelling. As a result, you can take it with you wherever you go so you can use it while touring or to maximize the quality of your audio during a DJ gig. The USB 96 is built with a heavy-duty steel chassis as well, so you don’t need to be concerned about any physical damage it may take.
Not only does it enhance the clarity of the audio, but it also adds plenty of volume. You can easily play to a massive crowd while still maintaining the high quality of your audio and music.
The best part is that when you purchase the AudioBox USB 96 it also includes a free license for Studio One Artist from PreSonus. This means you can begin producing music immediately using world-class software. You’ll have all the tools for your recording and production needs.
Your creativity isn’t restricted either, because the program is easy to use and offers a variety of features that can help you create masterpieces. Along with Studio One Artist, the AudioBox USB 96 also includes the Studio Magic Plug-In Suite. This allows you to add many different effects to your productions. If you really want to create truly unique music, everything you need is in this one bundle.
Who Is This Product For?
The AudioBox USB 96 is designed to be used by anyone who is passionate about making music. Whether you’re new to producing your own tracks or you’ve been recording your own albums for years, you’ll find this interface more than worthwhile.
Two XLR microphone inputs mean that it’s also ideal for singers, or even podcasters. The instrument jack inputs make it useful for guitarists and other musicians, and the interface as a whole makes it perfect for music producers. This clearly shows that there’s a wide variety of people involved in making music that can benefit from using this interface.
It’s particularly great for creators who already enjoy using the Studio One program due to the plugins it includes, giving you absolute freedom as a songwriter and producer. You can create your own unique music from the comfort of your own home studio computer.
If you travel often from place to place to perform your music, you should definitely consider picking up the USB 96. It’s small and durable, so you can take it with you on tour without being concerned about whether it’s going to get damaged by wear and tear.
What makes it an incredible buy is that it’s also highly affordable. This means that your financial situation doesn’t prevent you from beginning your path into making music. It’s designed to be used by artists of all levels, regardless of skill level or social status. It’s also incredibly easy to use, making it a very practical option for newbies.
What’s Included?
When you purchase the AudioBox USB 96, you’ll find the following in the package:
- The audio interface with inputs for microphones, instruments, and studio monitors
- A USB cable that is used to connect the interface to a computer
- A user’s manual so you know how to install your device and get the most out of it
- A sticker to show your support for PreSonus
- A free license for Studio One Artist
Along with these items, all you need is your own laptop or computer and a microphone, and you’re ready to begin recording. If you’d like to see everything the box contains, check out the below video.
Overview of Features
Here are a few of the most notable features of the AudioBox USB 96:
- Bus-powered USB 2.0 Connection: Only needs to be connected to a laptop or computer as a source of power (no external power cables needed)
- 24-bit Resolution: Ensures high quality music reproduction and sound quality.
- Multiple Sampling Rates: Can be sampled at 44.1, 48, 88.2 and 96kHz.
- 2 Combo Mic/Instrument Inputs: You can plug in either two mics or two instruments simultaneously or even alternate one mic and one instrument.
- Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20kHz
- High-quality mic pre-amps built into the device
- Mixer Control: Lets you blend computer playback streams with input signals so you have zero latency monitoring.
- Headphone Jack: Allows you to use headphones while recording, and even gives you volume level control on the device.
- Monitor Outputs: connect your studio monitors
- Includes Studio One Artist: This top-of-the-range music production software lets you have complete control over your production process so you can create great music
- Also Includes the Magic Plug-In Suite: Adds additional effects and instrument sounds to the Studio One program so you have more opportunities to be creative.
It’s important to note that the AudioBox USB 96 can be used with most Mac or Windows systems. However, you’ll want to check the technical specs first, just to make sure that this interface will work as it should with your computer.
Tutorial
In order to start up your AudioBox USB 96, all you need to do is connect the device to your computer using the provided USB cable. Before you can begin to actually use your interface, there are three steps you need to follow.
Step One: Register Your Device
Registering your device is necessary if you want access to the additional bonuses like Studio One Artist and the Studio Magic Plug-In Suite. In order to register your AudioBox, go to the official PreSonus page and enter your exact product details. Once you’re done, you’ll have access to all of the extra PreSonus features.
Step 2: Install the Driver
Installing the driver on your Mac or Windows PC is required so that the device can function properly while you’re using your computer. You’ll have to download the AudioBox USB 96 file. This information will come with your device. It’s really simple because all you need to do is follow the prompts on your screen.
Step 3: Optimize Your Monitors
In order to make sure your monitors are working optimally, do the following:
- Turn the volume down to zero
- Turn the Mixer knob as much as you can to the right (playback)
- Make sure the Main knob is turned up completely
Once you’ve done this, play music through your device and you’ll be able to see if your speakers are functioning. As soon as this is done, you can start making music with your Studio One program. If you’d like more information on how to use your AudioBox to start making music, you can watch this video.
Best Audio Interface for Studio One - Alternatives
If you’re looking for a more immersive studio recording system and you’re willing to pay that little bit extra, you can consider the PreSonus AudioBox Studio Ultimate Bundle. It includes the USB 96 but also comes with headphones, a microphone, and studio monitors.
In regards to the program, it comes with Studio One Artist. But if this doesn’t have enough features for you, you can easily upgrade to Studio One Professional.
Some people have also reported that the line-level jack inputs are sometimes a little too “hot” for directly connecting an instrument like a guitar. If you’re looking to do more recording in your studio, you could look into the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2. It’s a fantastic audio interface for recording instruments like the guitar and bass.
Final Thoughts
The PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 has everything you need to create music on your studio computer using the Studio One program. For this very reason, it really is the best audio interface for Studio One. It even comes packaged with Studio One Artist so you can immediately start letting your creative juices flow.
This audio interface was made for musicians and producers who love to make music – whether you want to make music in your spare time or if you’re aiming to write the next smash hit. Are you ready to take your music to the next level?