Presonus Quantum HD8 B-Stock

The Presonus Quantum HD8 is an audio interface for a 19" rack capable of transmitting via up to 26 inputs and 30 outputs – to manage this phenomenal workload, its rear panel comes fitted out with eight mic/line inputs, one S/PDIF, two optical I/Os, eight line outs, and word clock inputs. On the front panel, there are two additional line inputs for connecting guitars and basses, as well as two line outs, which are handy for sending signals to external studio equipment. All this is rounded off with two headphone outputs, and of course the front panel is also where all the important recording parameters are controlled. The Quantum HD8's Auto Gain function means there is no need for any levelling before recording a take, and PreSonus MAX-HD technology ensures transparent and precise sound over a wide frequency range, with up to +75dB of gain. The whole setup allows musicians to make intuitive yet high-quality recordings.

The rear panel of the PreSonus Quantum HD( is equipped with eight mic/line inputs and outputs, which are combined in an XLR hybrid jack for maximum flexibility. This doesn’t just enable the connection of microphones: Line levels can also be received via the mic jacks, for example from keyboards or digital pianos. To the left are the eight connections for studio monitors, enabling a full 7.1 surround set-up. MIDI data can be transmitted via the S/PDIF connection, and the integrated preamps can process signals in a quality of up to 192kHz and 24Bit, with a dynamic range of 117dB(A). There are two inputs on the front panel suitable for connecting two electric guitars, which represent a high-impedance signal source for any audio interface: The ports were developed as part of a collaboration with guitar manufacturer Fender, so the sound quality is outstanding.

The compact PreSonus Quantum HD8 was designed for studio users who need to make high-quality recordings from up to ten signal sources at the same time. Despite its scope, the device is incredibly intuitive to use – the Auto Gain function in particular helps make spontaneous recordings a reality. Low latency during recordings is a given thanks to the drivers specially developed by PreSonus – this is particularly useful for live applications. The loopback function makes it easy to record monitor mixes via virtual channels – each of the mic/line ins has a level display, making it easy to monitor what is being recorded. For the most demanding recordings, unique settings can be input via the Universal Control app to perfectly customise every aspect of each recording.