The Native Instruments Komplete Audio 2 is a compact and versatile USB audio interface designed for musicians, producers, and podcasters who need to record two sources simultaneously. It’s a step up from the Komplete Audio 1, offering more flexible inputs and outputs, while retaining the same high-quality audio and valuable software bundle that the series is known for.
Key Features and Highlights:
- 2-in/2-out Connectivity: The Komplete Audio 2 is built to handle stereo recording or two separate mono sources. It features two combo XLR-1/4″ inputs on the front panel. Both inputs can accept a microphone (with switchable 48V phantom power), a line-level signal, or a direct instrument signal (with a Hi-Z switch). This makes it perfect for recording a vocalist and an acoustic guitar at the same time, or two microphones for a podcast.
- High-Resolution Audio: It provides professional-grade audio quality, capable of recording and playing back at up to 24-bit/192 kHz resolution. This ensures that your recordings are captured with exceptional clarity, detail, and a wide dynamic range.
- Zero-Latency Direct Monitoring: A key feature for recording, the front-panel INPUT/HOST mix knob allows you to blend your live input signal with the playback from your computer. This provides zero-latency monitoring, eliminating any distracting delay and ensuring a comfortable recording experience.
- Top-Panel VU Meters: The interface has easy-to-read LED VU meters for both inputs on the top panel. This provides quick visual feedback for your input levels, helping you to prevent clipping and ensure a healthy signal.
- USB Bus-Powered: The Komplete Audio 2 is powered directly by its USB connection, so you don’t need a separate power adapter. This makes it highly portable and convenient for on-the-go recording.
- Balanced Outputs: It features two balanced 1/4″ TRS outputs for connecting to studio monitors, which helps to eliminate noise and interference.
- Comprehensive Software Bundle: A major selling point of this interface is the included software, which adds significant value for a beginner. The bundle typically includes:
- Ableton Live Lite: A streamlined version of the popular DAW.
- MASCHINE Essentials: The full MASCHINE software with a selection of samples, loops, and instruments.
- KOMPLETE START: A collection of over 2000 sounds.
- Professional Effects Plugins: Including REPLIKA (delay), SOLID BUS COMP (compressor), and PHASIS (phaser).
Komplete Audio 2 vs. Komplete Audio 1
The main difference between the two is the input flexibility:
- Komplete Audio 1: Has a dedicated XLR input and a separate 1/4″ instrument input. You can’t connect two microphones or two instruments simultaneously.
- Komplete Audio 2: Has two identical combo XLR-1/4″ inputs. This allows you to connect any combination of two microphones, two instruments, or two line-level signals, making it much more versatile for duo performances, interviews, or stereo recording.
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