MusicRadar Verdict
An entry-level fuss-free interface, which is ideal for the travelling songwriters on a budget.
Pros
- +
Sturdy construction. Straightforward setup. Compact.
Cons
- -
Limited features.
MusicRadar's got your back
The FA-66 is a compact, highly-portable audio interface which, when used in a four-In/four-Out configuration, offers 192kHz/24-bit audio.
Its dual XLR/TRS inputs feature phantom power - input two has a Hi-Z option for guitar or bass - and there are stereo RCA inputs at the rear.
You can apply an analogue limiter to the audio ins to combat clipping while recording. Optical S/PDIF I/O and MIDI I/O are also available.
Mac users will appreciate the FA- 66's plug-and-play capability - it uses the standard Apple FireWire driver, so you can hook it up and start recording.
XP users, meanwhile, are catered for by ASIO 2 and WDM compliance. You'll need a six-pin connection to power the device from the FireWire bus, but a mains adaptor is included if you have a four-pin.
Naturally, a unit of this size and price is going to be limited on features, but it does provide enough for basic recording sessions on the hoof.
It would ideally suit roving songsmiths, as well as those seeking a high-quality, computer-based field recorder in order to collect real-world ambiences and other sounds.
The FA- 66's metal case is robust enough to withstand a beating and fuss-free operation ensures it won't get in the way of the creative flow.
Future Music is the number one magazine for today's producers. Packed with technique and technology we'll help you make great new music. All-access artist interviews, in-depth gear reviews, essential production tutorials and much more. Every marvellous monthly edition features reliable reviews of the latest and greatest hardware and software technology and techniques, unparalleled advice, in-depth interviews, sensational free samples and so much more to improve the experience and outcome of your music-making.
“Meticulously crafted analogue and digital circuits all curated from the ground up for bass-centric tonal expansion”: Fender unveils the Bassman effects line – 5 pedalboard essentials for bassists
“A full range of controls for instruments and DAWs, along with a semi-weighted keyboard that’ll please the players”: Novation Launchkey 49 and 61 MK4 review
“It's not quite as dark, but it explores other subjects a little bit more”: Robert Smith confirms existence of ‘companion’ album to Songs Of A Lost World