Outlining a simple method and best practices for recording acoustic guitar in GarageBand with the iRig Acoustic Stage preamp from IK Multimedia. IRig Pro I/O is a pocket-sized full-featured audio and MIDI interface that gives you 24-bit/96kHz recording studio quality sound everywhere you go with a few additional essential features for mobile recording. The first iPad has GarageBand 1.2 which I use with iRig and have no issues. The new iPad has GarageBand 1.2.1 and I used it with iRig last night for the first time since it arrived. The unwanted noise on the new iPad with 1.2.1 build is so poor it's unusable. If I use Amplitude on the new iPad it sounds great. Garageband is another unique gift from Apple for audiophiles and more pertinently for music creators or prodigies altogether. IPad further exploits the full functionality of GarageBand by extending the intuitiveness with its overtly simple but responsive touch screen gestures.GarageBand for iPad can be used to create, record, assemble, retouch and even as a fully trusted live performance kit. GarageBand is a great way to quickly create music on your iPhone or iPad. So consider something like the IK Multimedia iRig Pro I. Read our How to edit in GarageBand for iPhone and iPad to.
GarageBand lets you know when new sound packs are available to download. Explore the Sound Library To browse the GarageBand User Guide for iPad, click Table of Contents at the top of the page. Learning Music with GarageBand on the iPad: The Essential Classroom Guide to Music Production, Performance, and Education with iOS Devices. By Floyd Richmond. IK Multimedia iRig 2 Guitar Interface Adaptor for iPhone, iPod Touch & iPad (IPIRIG2PLGIN) 3.7 out of 5 stars 787. Get it as soon as Tue, Aug 13.
Despite measuring just 693 x 208 mm, the iRig Keys I/O somehow manages to squeeze in a full-size 49-note keyboard.
The iRig Keys I/O offers a one-cable keyboard controller solution for computer- and iPad-based musicians.
IK Multimedia are probably best known to music tech veterans as a software developer, with well-established products like T-Racks, AmpliTube and SampleTank. But in recent years they’ve made a name for themselves with the growing ‘iRig’ range of interfaces, controllers and accessories that have penetrated into mainstream retail outlets. They have a knack for filling gaps in the market with products that solve problems for pros and hobbyists alike. The iRig I/O 49 Pro is a light and portable, yet full-size, controller keyboard made for both iOS devices and computers. It is also an audio interface providing stereo output and headphone monitoring, plus a line, mic or instrument input.
One Rig To Rule Them All
IK appear to have aimed for a sweet centre spot when laying out the design parameters of the iRig I/O Keys. It’s about as compact as a controller with full-size, full-travel keys could get without ditching other controls altogether. The glossy panel, touch sliders and cool blue lights give it a pleasing futuristic appearance. It has a light, plastic shell but feels reasonably rugged. A big plus is the use of touch-sensitive, endless encoders rather than basic pots, although the feel of these is the one thing that lets the side down a bit: they’re wobbly and not that easy to grip.
The keyboard will run from USB power when connected to a computer, giving you a nice one-cable setup. You can also get power from four AA batteries, which is a requirement when running with an iPhone or iPad, and there’s a switch to choose this option if you want to help save your laptop batteries. A PSU is available as an optional extra (I got one in the box), which allows you to charge a connected iOS device. Although there’s battery power there’s no MIDI output outside of USB, so the iRig Keys I/O isn’t suitable as a stand-alone master keyboard for hardware. A MIDI port would also have been nice as a MIDI interface for a computer or iOS device: it would have made the iRig Keys I/O a true one-stop shop for simple studio connectivity.
After loading up the AAs, I began a perplexing and ultimately fruitless search for the USB connection to hook up to my Mac. IK have decided to ditch the regular USB Type-B port for a small DIN connector combined with adaptor cables. This is familiar from other iRig devices such as the Pro I/O and iRig Pads. On the iOS side, this has some benefit as it allows you to just use the dedicated Lightning connector provided without the Apple Camera Connection Kit that most iOS compatible devices rely on. Other than that though it’s a bit of a drag. The provided cables are too short, especially the USB one. And sooner or later you’re going to lose or break one and then you’re out of action until you buy a €$30 replacement.
In Use
The iRig Keys is class compliant as both a MIDI controller and audio interface and requires no setup on either Macs or iOS devices. On Windows you’ll need ASIO4All for the audio interface functionality. The only hardware-related install is a Logic/GarageBand controller plug-in. There’s also an instrument bundle that runs on both desktop and iOS platforms comprising the full version of SampleTank 3, the orchestral SampleTank-powered Miroslav Philharmonik 2 CE, and Syntronik Pro-V. Additionally, on computers you get the T-Racks 4 Deluxe mix and mastering suite plug-in.
For much of the time that I had the iRig I used it as a generic keyboard controller and interface on my Mac, working in Reason, Pro Tools and Live, with a little bit of Logic to test the integration. The keyboard feels positive and ‘non-budget’ and the pads are robust with decent sensitivity and range. Pitch and Mod controls are on touch sliders, which I like, and the other buttons are under similarly damage/liquid-resistant flat surface covers. Alongside the sliders you have octave shifters, Program Change triggers, then three buttons that double as transport controls for connected software and internal edit controls for the keyboard. Lastly, there’s an Alt button, which toggles the other controls between their main and secondary functions.
The iRig Keys I/O comes with a handy iPad stand. iOS is treated as an equal by the iRig Keys I/O. As well as the direct Lightning connection you get a special iPad stand in the box. This simple but effective plastic bracket presents your tablet at the right height and angle behind the keyboard, and the foot slides underneath to hold everything in place. As well as the included apps the keyboard worked nicely with several iOS synths and GarageBand. I also set up a map in my favourite iPad DAW, Beatmaker 3, which worked fine, although I could have done with some more controls and pads to really make this effective.
Presets
With a relatively modest array of controls, the iRig relies on preset layers to broaden the scope of its MIDI functionality. There are four factory maps, and 99 available user pages. Each preset can store completely different MIDI functions for nearly every button, knob, slider and pad on the surface. All presets can be recalled in a three-step process via the data wheel, but there’s also a fast recall option which brings up the first eight user maps on the drum pads.
Preset 1 is set up to work with the IK Multimedia software instruments, giving hands-on control of patch browsing and macros. It puts only white notes on the pads, which is a bit of a pain for playing most generic drum instruments though. Preset 2 is aimed at Logic. Preset 3 is a general chromatic map, which was where I spent the majority of my time, and, finally, preset 4 replaces the drum pad notes with program changes. The Alt key accesses a second bank of knobs, but not pads, which is a shame given that most software drum instruments present 16 pads.
The Logic preset provides a certain amount of intelligent mapping with Apple’s DAWs, but for other apps you’ll need to map controls yourself, or use your software’s learn functionality. With some patience you can edit your own user presets for fast access to more control pages from the pads. Unlike the iRig Pads there’s no software editor, so you’ll need to follow the manual to navigate the hardware editing process via the basic three-character display. You’re free to assign most flavours of MIDI message to any control, and there’s a particularly clever option to assign a message to be sent on touch for the knobs. The knobs can send both absolute and relative control data.
The iRig Keys I/O’s back panel features a power source selector switch, an input for the optional DC power supply, a DIN port for connecting to your device via an included adapter, a 3.5mm headphone socket, stereo outputs on quarter-inch jacks, a gain control for the audio input, a combi XLR/jack audio input socket and an external pedal input.
Audio
I read with some scepticism that the iRig Keys I/O is the only combined USB MIDI keyboard and audio interface, but after some hunting around I concluded this to be true. There was a small Edirol keyboard with this combo that I reviewed a few years back, and Line 6’s Tone KB37 had audio on board, but neither are available any more. As I said, IK are good at sniffing out these gaps.
The iRig Keys I/O features a 1-in, 2-out audio interface (up to 96k, 24-bit), with the output channels shared by a pair of quarter-inch balanced jacks and a stereo mini-jack headphone port. Awkward reach-arounds have been avoided by placing the level control front and centre on the panel as a toggled function of the main data wheel.
The optional gooseneck microphone’s L-shaped connector is a nice touch. The single input is a combined XLR and quarter-inch connector with a preamp that caters for all-comers: guitars, mics or line-level sources. Switchable 48V phantom power is provided, even when running from batteries. This time, gain control is on a small pot at the back, but this isn’t much of an inconvenience as you don’t need to access it often. I tested with a good-quality condenser mic and sound quality was perfectly adequate — just a touch of noise — with enough gain available for what I needed. There’s no provision for direct monitoring, so you’ll need to get that buffer right down. IK Multimedia are also selling a gooseneck mic for £$69.99 that you can plant directly into the back of the keyboard.
Summary
Some of my conclusions about the iRig Keys I/O echo my thoughts about the iRig Pads, including my gripe about using proprietary cables. Both are highly configurable, with multiple user layers. Multiple encoder modes and the ability to send messages on touch show a degree of sophistication that pros can dig into. But both controllers lack a certain amount of instant gratification with software outside of the IK family. Few users program their MIDI controllers these days — they expect intelligent functionality using custom codecs and templates purpose built for their DAW. The iRig only offers this with Logic/GarageBand, so perhaps IK Multimedia are banking on a large percentage of their non-pro users using those apps. In any case, IK have made an attractive controller keyboard that’s portable yet full-size and supports both iOS and desktop as equals. It is also currently unique in offering USB audio I/O. If this ticks all your boxes you should definitely check it out.
Alternatives
There are many other MIDI keyboard controllers with comparable control sets, and for the price you could get quite a bit more from the likes of M-Audio, Akai or Nektar. However, there are no alternatives with on-board audio I/O or direct Lightning support as far as I know, and the iRig Keys I/O is unusually compact for a full-size controller keyboard.
Pros
Irig Garageband Ipad
- All-in-one keyboard and audio interface.
- Phantom power and high impedance input.
- Configurable with up to 99 user pages.
- Custom iPad cradle.
Cons
- MIDI only on USB.
- Proprietary, short cables.
- Only Logic has specific control support.
- No software editor.
Summary
IK Multimedia’s iRig Keys I/O is an attractive, compact master keyboard and audio interface providing a one-cable solution for simple computer- or iPad-based music setups.
information
In this feature I ditch the recording studio and take a look at the best portable interfaces for GarageBand musicians who want the freedom to record anytime, anywhere.
The beauty of an app like GarageBand for iOS is that you no longer need to spend ludicrous amounts of money renting studio time or wait until your ‘big break’ to write, record and release your own music.
If you want your DIY music to sound its best however, you’ll need to ditch that inbuilt mic on your iOS device and invest in an audio interface of some kind.
There’s tons of choice out there and it can be hard to work out what interface is right for you. I’ve brought together 3 of the best portable recording interfaces on the planet to help you narrow down your options.
Let’s take a look.
Omnisphere 808 presets. This Omnisphere bank comes with an amazing collection of sounds such as ambient pianos, childlike bells, and eerie pads. All presets are inspired by artists such as. Free Omnisphere Presets. Omnisphere is the big daddy of software synths. It comes with thousands of great patches, but if you are looking for some more free Omnisphere presets to add to your collection, check out the ones below: Omnitaur is a free library based entirely on the Moog Minitaur waveforms that come with the version 2.6. That being said we have decided to expand our reach and now offer VST/Plugin 3rd Party Presets. Kickin’ it off in rare form, we’ve dropped 12 New Omnisphere Kits full of 🔥 with more Presets from your favorite VST/Plugins to come in the future.
£74.99/$99.99
Compact, portable, and easy to use, the Roland GO:MIXER makes it simple to record high-quality audio with your iDevice.
With multiple inputs available, you can connect a mic, musical instruments, and media players and mix them all together at the same time.
The unit features the ability to combine five sources at once via inputs for a ¼” jack vocal mic (no XLR input or +48 V Phantom Power here), guitar, stereo keyboard, and two stereo line-level devices (such as music players, drum machines, etc.).
The quality is great, assuming you don’t clip/peak the audio. There is a dial for each main instrument input as well as a master volume dial to adjust as appropriate. The GO:MIXER also has a peaking LED which is useful to have.
All in all this little box is incredibly versatile, though the lack of XLR input or 48v Phantom Power would definitely prove limiting for some.
Tech Specs
Irig Compatible Apps
- Inputs: 8 channels
- Outputs 2 channels
- Connectors INSTRUMENT (L/MONO, R) jacks: 1/4-inch phone type
- LINE IN 1 jack: Stereo miniature phone type
- LINE IN 2 jack: Stereo miniature phone type
- MIC jack: 1/4-inch phone type (no plug-in power)
- GUITAR/BASS jack: 1/4-inch phone type (high impedance)
- MONITOR OUT jack: Stereo miniature phone type
- USB port: USB Micro-B type USB Bus PowerCurrent Draw40 mA
- Accessories: Lightning to USB Micro-B type cable (50 cm, 1 ft 7 inches)
- USB OTG Micro-B type to USB Micro-B type cable (50 cm, 1 ft 7 inches)
£81.99/$119.99
Focusrite has a great track record for producing extraordinarily high quality USB and Thunderbolt audio interfaces for Mac and PC. With the iTrack Solo Lightning, they’ve packed most all of the killer features from their range into this little box.
While it is smaller and lacking a few of the features of some of Focusrite’s more expensive units , the iTrack Solo packs enough of a sonic punch to hold its own against most other interfaces at this price range.
The mic preamp used here series are nothing short of phenomenal, giving you clean and clear recordings every time. There’s also +48 V Phantom Power available, so you can use a studio quality condenser microphone to really push the quality of your recordings to the next level.
Super-low latency brings confidence to your performance, letting you record and monitor with software effects in real time.
New gain controls and a sleek metal chassis underscore its industrial design – this thing can take one hell of a beating!
Tech Specs
- 1 microphone input – XLR, 1 Instrument input ¼’ unbalanced, 2 Gain knobs,
- 48V Phantom power switch, Direct monitor switch
- 2 unbalanced monitor outputs – RCA Phone, DEVICE LINK port (to connect iTrack Solo to iPad)
- USB 2.0 Port, Kensington Lock slot
- Supported sample rates 44.1 KHz, 48 KHz, 88.2 KHz, 96 KHz – Mac and PC 44.1 KHz, 48 KHz – iPad
- In the box: iTrack Solo, 1.2m USB cable, 1.2m “DEVICE LINK” cable (to connect to a Lightning iPad), Getting started guide, Registration card, USB power supply (US only)
- Compatible with: iTrack Solo Lightning: Any iPad with Lightning connector, Standard iTrack Solo: iPad (1st gen), iPad (2nd gen) and iPad (3rd gen)
£127.99/$149.99
iRig Pro I/O is a pocket-sized full-featured audio and MIDI interface that gives you 24-bit/96kHz recording studio quality sound everywhere you go with a few additional essential features for mobile recording.
Its designed to be “plug and play” and easy to use with all of your gear — studio mics, vocal performance mics, guitars, basses, keyboards — whatever it is, iRig Pro I/O can probably handle it.
It features a new 1/8″ stereo headphone out with preamp and level control, making it compatible with even the most recent iOS devices. Plus, when used with the optional DC power supply, the unit will charge your iPhone or iPad while in use for unlimited playing and recording time – super handy!
The Pro I/O also features a new MIDI Out jack that gives you even more flexibility and control over your outboard MIDI gear.
Despite it’s small size the iRig Pro I/O has it where it counts, packing the features you’d expect from a full scale audio interface into it’s sleek form factor.
Tech Specs
- High definition 24-bit/96kHz audio plus MIDI interface for iPhone, iPad, Mac, PC and Android devices
- Connects to everything, yet easily fits in your laptop bag, gig bag or pocket
- Neutrik™ combo input for guitar, microphone or other instruments with a professional quality preamp, phantom power and gain control
- iPhone 7 ready with integrated headphone output with volume control
- Powered via USB bus, two AA batteries or the optional iRig PSU 3A (PSU simultaneously charges iOS device)
- Detachable Lightning and USB cables included for connection to iPhone, iPad, Mac and PC (MFi certified)
- Comes with a Velcro strip to secure iRig Pro I/O to a mic stand
- Comes with over $/€550 worth of full version Software & Apps
There you have it, that’s my top 3 favourite portable audio interfaces for use with GarageBand for iOS.
Is your favourite on the list? What did I miss out? Leave a comment and let me know, or come and join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter.