Description
The Zoom AMS-44 is a compact, portable, and versatile USB-C audio interface designed for musicians, podcasters, and live streamers. It is part of Zoom’s “AMS Series,” which focuses on simplicity, portability, and powerful on-the-go functionality.
Key Features and Highlights:
- Four-Input, Four-Output Design: The AMS-44 provides four XLR/TRS combo inputs, allowing you to connect a variety of microphones and instruments. This makes it an ideal choice for multi-person podcasts, recording a small band, or a combination of vocals and instruments.
- Built-in Preamps and Phantom Power: The interface features four high-quality preamps with up to 58 dB of gain. It also offers switchable 48V phantom power on all four channels, so you can use professional condenser microphones.
- Dual-Mode Operation: This is a key feature that sets the AMS-44 apart. It has a dedicated switch to toggle between two modes:
- Music Mode: The interface acts as a traditional multi-channel audio interface, where each input is routed to its own separate track in your digital audio workstation (DAW).
- Streaming Mode: All inputs are mixed down to a single stereo signal. This is a game-changer for live streamers and podcasters, as it eliminates the need for complex routing and mixing software, allowing you to get a high-quality stream to platforms like YouTube, Twitch, or Facebook Live with a simple plug-and-play setup.
- Direct Monitoring and Loopback: The AMS-44 has dedicated switches for direct monitoring and loopback functionality.
- Direct Monitor: Allows you to hear your input signal directly from the interface with zero latency, which is crucial for a comfortable recording experience.
- Loopback: Combines the audio from your inputs with the playback from your computer, which is essential for live streaming with background music or sound effects.
- Onboard Stereo Link: You can link inputs 1 & 2 or 3 & 4 for stereo recording, which is perfect for capturing a stereo source like a keyboard or a stereo microphone pair.
- Highly Portable and Bus-Powered: The AMS-44 is extremely lightweight and can be powered by your computer’s USB-C port, an AC adapter, or even two AA batteries. The ability to run on batteries makes it truly mobile, allowing you to record in the field with a laptop, smartphone, or tablet.
- Versatile Compatibility: The interface is class-compliant and works seamlessly with a variety of devices and operating systems, including Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android.
