Steinberg introduces the IXO USB audio interface range, which claim to offer high-quality features in a compact, lightweight package for versatile recording anywhere, at a highly competitive price.
Comprising the IXO12 and IXO22 models, as well as the IXO Podcast Pack and IXO Recording Pack bundles, Steinberg say the IXO family delivers an exceptionally portable recording, podcasting and streaming platform for Windows, Mac, and iOS.
Available in a choice of black or white finish*, the new, ultra-portable IXO12 and IXO22 interfaces feature two inputs and two outputs, 24-bit/192kHz support, hardware-based, latency-free input monitoring, and high-speed USB 2.0 via USB‑C. Making studio-quality recording, podcasting, and streaming possible in literally any location, IXO interfaces are a full, truly mobile production platform.
The IXO12 boasts a combined microphone/line input, equipped with a top-tier, Class A microphone amplifier and a Hi-Z jack input, perfect for direct connection of an electric guitar or bass. The IXO22, on the other hand, comes with two combined microphone/line inputs, each with a Class A microphone amplifier and a Hi-Z input. Both models come with a front panel gain control for each input, a switchable +48 V phantom power for condenser microphones, and a headphone output. The IXO22 goes a step further by offering individual volume control for the headphone output and a mute button for each input, providing the ability to instantly disable the input signal while streaming or recording.
The back panel of both units houses two 6.3 mm TRS line outputs and two USB‑C ports. One port is designed for connectivity to a Mac, PC, iPad or iPhone, while the other is meant for a USB‑C power source, particularly useful when paired with an iPad or iPhone. Both the IXO12 and IXO22 come with the user-friendly Loopback function, for live streaming, and a direct monitor switch.
IXO Podcast Pack
The IXO Podcast Pack bundles an IXO12 USB audio interface* with the ST-M01 studio condenser microphone, a high-quality studio mic with a clean, smooth response, exceptional sensitivity, and a wide frequency response. Capturing every detail in excellent quality, it is ideal for recording every nuance of vocals, interviews, acoustic guitar, other instruments, and field recordings. This bundle also includes a microphone pop shield to reduce plosives while recording, a low-noise microphone cable and a tabletop stand for placing the microphone in the best position.
IXO Recording Pack
The IXO Recording Pack bundles an IXO22 USB audio interface* with the ST-M01 studio condenser microphone and ST-H01 monitor headphones, which the manufacturer says provide an accurate, neutral listening experience, making them perfect for monitoring while recording and creating a final mix. The close-backed design means low bleed levels into the microphone during recording, ideal for singers recording their own vocals. This bundle also includes a low-noise microphone cable.
* IXO series interfaces in the IXO Podcast Pack and IXO Recording Pack bundles are only available in black.
“We are very excited to introduce the new IXO series, which are the most mobile audio interfaces we have ever made. With great-sounding preamps and industry standard conversion in a lightweight yet rugged housing, IXO interfaces are excellent mobile recording partners for everyone who is working with audio. And what’s more, they are available at a truly impressive price point.” - Stefan Schreiber, Steinberg senior marketing manager for hardware.
Features at a glance
IXO12
- 24-bit/192kHz USB‑C audio interface with 2 x 2 analog I/O
- One combo input with mute button, Class a mic preamp and phantom power, plus one Hi-Z input
- Compact, lightweight metal casing, with two color options
- Direct monitoring and Loopback function for live internet broadcasting
- Cross-platform compatibility with Windows, macOS and iOS, included Cubase AI and Cubasis LE
IXO22
- 24-bit/192kHz USB‑C audio interface with 2 x 2 analog I/O
- Two combo inputs with mute button, Class a mic preamps, phantom power, and Hi-Z input
- Compact, lightweight metal casing with two color options
- Direct monitoring and Loopback function for live internet broadcasting
- Cross-platform compatibility with Windows, macOS and iOS, with Cubase AI and Cubasis LE included
IXO Podcast Pack
- 24-bit / 192kHz USB‑C audio interface with 2 x 2 analog I/O
- One combo input with mute button, Class a mic preamp and phantom power, plus one Hi-Z input
- Latency-free hardware monitoring and headphone output
- ST-M01 studio condenser microphone with low noise cable, tripod stand and pop screen
- Cross-platform compatibility with Windows, macOS, iPad and iPhone. WaveLab Cast, Cubase AI and Cubasis LE software included
IXO Recording Pack
- 24-bit/192kHz USB‑C audio interface with 2 x 2 analog I/O
- Two combo inputs, with mute button, Class a mic preamps, phantom power, and Hi-Z input
- Latency-free hardware monitoring and separate headphone output
- ST-M01 studio condenser microphone with low-noise microphone cable plus ST-H01
- studio monitor headphones
- Cross-platform compatibility with Windows, macOS, iPad and iPhone with Cubase AI, WaveLab LE and Cubasis LE software included
Availability & pricing
The IXO series is available immediately from Steinberg authorised resellers, at the following suggested retail prices: the IXO12 USB audio interface is €129 euros$119.99; the IXO22 USB audio interface is €189 euros$169.99; the IXO Podcast Pack is €249 euros$249.99; and the IXO Recording Pack is €319 euros$299.99.
