Codename Asteroid: Apple develops Firewire audio interface for the consumer
Apple has an audio interface device in the works that plans to aggressively compete with prosumer hardware recording
devices. The interface, known as ‘Q97’ or, more affectionately,
‘Asteroid,’ is being built around Apple’s GarageBand
application.
The Asteroid will include two XLR/TRS audio inputs, two RCA outputs, and a headphone jack. It will draw power via a
single Firewire 400 port. Rumour has it that an alternate version of the device that includes a S/PDIF digital out port
is circulating on the Cupertino campus, and may end up being the final version send to manufacturing.
This is a smart move. It leverages the benefits of Apple’s acquisition of Emagic to create a ‘Middle Path’ device that
targets the consumer who just wants to make music without needing all the pro audio bells and whistles of a high-end
prosumer digital recording environment. At an expected retail price of $129-149, this unit could really appeal to those
aspiring musicians who just want to get a decent recording of their guitar or vocals onto their Macs.
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Jan de Bloois said 4:14PM on 6-16-2005
It looks great, but if it has to work toghether with Garageband, why has it no midi in and midi out? Can you pass this suggestion to Apple?
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