M-Audio Fast Track Ultra - your thoughts

[tvsky]

you use the software mixer , remember these are just line level inputs

i had a FTU for a couple of years , I got rid of it a while ago because I had 3 interfaces already but I kind of regret it , would be handy to have around.

there was absolutely nothing wrong with it , I had no issues with noise or power , the sound was clean and crisp , the pre's were ok , it was very stable . and it was cheap .

it wasn't spectacular in anyway though , if you want to focus on specific things like ultra low latency or built in dsp mixer/fx or better pre amps then other products will give better results for more money .

If you need a cheap bang for the buck reliable all rounder it does well

[dorr]

Originally Posted by tvsky

you use the software mixer , remember these are just line level inputs

Hi and thanks for answer. I've already tried with the software and read the manual but I'm not able to set level inputs! I can't see where are the fader (or other controls) for do that... :\

[dorr]

Originally Posted by dorr

Hi and thanks for answer. I've already tried with the software and read the manual but I'm not able to set level inputs! I can't see where are the fader (or other controls) for do that... :\

some help?

[JustMastering]

Hi,

I don't believe you can adjust the levels for the rear inputs on that unit. Those are at a fixed line level. The mixer software lets you setup monitor mixes (up to four different ones), but unfortunately that won't affect the actual recording levels for your DAW...

The best you could do is use the four 1/4" front instrument inputs, setting each switch to "front", but that would only allow you to boost the levels, if needed (and it would add noise). Unfortunately there isn't a way to reduce the volume coming in on that unit, as far as I can tell.

Cheers

Rob

[mattjew24]

Originally Posted by sd-cd

I need all the comments about M-Audio Fast Track Ultra.
I'm interested in drivers, converters, preamps quality the most.
Now I have TC Electronic 8 but want to start using PT (M-Powered or LE - doesn't matter for me).

I used the "search" function. Thanks.

If the Fast track Ultra uses the same converter in the Fast track Pro, they aren't that great. A/D is meh and D/A is really bad.

The preamps are ok. Nothing wrong with them. A little more tasteful than my old Firepod preamps, but not as transparent

[kodebode]

Originally Posted by cassnate6259

I did a full review on the unit here:
M-Audio Fast Track Ultra Review - Harmony Central Musician Community Forums

And here's a mix I did using it:
http://www.naterecording.com/FirefinalM2M.mp3

I'm actually now getting the Apogee Duet, so I'll be very interested to compare quality. From what I've heard, the Apogee will be an upgrade in pres/converters, so I can't wait to find out.

I enjoyed listening to your recording. Lovely guitars and drums and a nice song, and very clear vocals! love the voice..

What mics were you using?
Did you use the M-Audio preamps for your vocals?
What monitors did you use for mixing?
How did you master this?
What DAW did you use for this?

Lots of questions, I really want to learn.