Avid intros Digidesign Eleven Rack
updated 04:35 pm EDT, Wed September 23, 2009
Handles guitar recording, performance
Avid has formally unveiled the Digidesign Eleven Rack, a new music processing unit. The hardware is aimed at guitarists, and simulates a number of different amps from the likes of Fender, Vox, Marshall and Soldano, as well as stompboxes by companies like Ibanez, Electro-Harmonix and Univox. Convolution-based cabinet and mic emulations are used, the latter simulating dynamic, condenser and ribbon designs.
Distinguishing the Eleven Rack is said to be two features: tone cloning, producing more accurate amp simulation, and a "True-Z" analog guitar input. The True-Z technology reproduces the input impedance of amps and pedals, in theory producing better tone.
The hardware can be used in live performance, or to record up to eight channels of audio at qualities up to 24-bit/96kHz. External control is possible through MIDI controllers and expression pedals, and the processor comes bundled with a copy of Pro Tools LE. Ports on the Eleven Rack include a 1/4-inch headphone jack, two 1/4-inch line-level inputs, an XLR mic input and 1/4-inch as well as stereo-balanced XLR outputs. Also present are USB, MIDI, AES/EBU and S/PDIF connections.
Other features of the Eleven Rack include an integrated tuner, and tap-tempo control for timed effects. The unit should ship by the end of the month at a cost of $1,259.
