Alesis iO Mix Squirts Four Tracks Into Your New iPad

Alesis continues its obsession with slotting iPads into musical hardware with the iO Mix, a four-channel mixer that funnels audio into the Apple tablet via pro-style XLR-1/4" sockets. Core Audio support means it's compatible with most iPad audio apps, including Apple's own GarageBand, while a video output means it can be used to play back presentations and even as a karaoke hub.

Ports include four XLR-1/4" inputs with optional 48V phantom power for studio condenser microphones – while channel one is also switchable to guitar-direct input – as well as two 1/4" TRS balanced outputs, a 1/4" TRS stereo headphone socket, and an RCA composite video output. The iPad itself slides into a dock section and is locked in place for stability; it's recharged by the same power supply that's keeping the iO Mix running.

Controls consist of individual trim, channel gain, pan, and low & high EQ for each input channel, separate volume controls for the outputs, a direct monitor option for cutting out latency while recording, and a switchable limiter. Even if you're not recording, the guitar input option means you can use the iPad as a virtual effects pedal.

Alesis also offers an adapter for mounting the iO Mix on a mic stand. No word on pricing or availability at this stage.