Roland UA-1G - USB Digital Audio Interface

Comments about Roland UA-1G - USB Digital Audio Interface:

I DJ on vinyl turntables and wanted to record mixes on a new macbook. Using GarageBand I was easily able to do this. I am assuming that the Sonar LE software that comes w/ this product is PC software similar to mac's GarageBand. Regardless of the recording software you are choosing to use, the device is VERY user friendly in the sense of being able to hook up and use in a matter of minutes...you don't even have to use the driver software if you so choose. I have also used it to record vinyl tracks to digital audio in order to throw them on my ipod instead of having to search torrents or re-buy the tracks in digital form. Perfect for these types of uses.

Comments about Roland UA-1G - USB Digital Audio Interface:

I bought the UA-1G primarily as a sound-card for additional gaming audio channels. I've also been using it to connect my cassette deck to my iMac for audio digitization/restoration. For these purposes it works admirably. I also discovered it works very well for connecting a laptop or PC to my home theater system.

I would prefer discrete optical inputs and outputs rather than the shared mini-jack. I would also prefer to have a 1/4" TRS Guitar/Mic input, but being a consumer level product I may be nit-picking.

My big gripe about this product is the dip-switch used for setting the options. Located in a recess on the back side these switches require a pointy object to change them. That coupled with the fact that the legend in molded into the plastic and is the same color as the body makes them very difficult to read even in good light, and impossible to read in studio lighting. I have to try painting or otherwise labeling these so I can use them without a flashlight.

The reference to vice-grips in the title refer to the brute-force tool everyone reaches for when the right tool is not available. You can grab this compact interface and attach it to your laptop, plug in your guitar (or other instrument), and record a moment of inspiration. You can grab this device and attach you laptop to your friends stereo to share your work. I have also used it as an additional headphone amp when circumstances required one.

Don't expect to be able to have full duplex audio at the 96K sample rate, this is not supported.

Comments about Roland UA-1G - USB Digital Audio Interface:

This beauty will make you realise what headphone outputs are for - headphones.
This device is extremely versatile and affordable.
Using this USB line output device you will increase the quality of the sound you get from your computer if you use it to drive your home stereo.
The mike/guitar jack input is another useful tool you dont find on other similar items.

Anyone wishing to input from rca stereo connects (phono/tape etc) directly into their usb port are also well served.

In one small package you get a piece of hardware that serves many functions. Best is you never need to use the mini headphone jacks at headphone line out levels to playback your tunes to a real amp.