Tascam US-200 - USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface

Comments about Tascam US-200 - USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface:

The Tascam US-200 is a fantastic product, and it's providing EXACTLY what you need for 2 ins and 4 outs. Configured with a program like the DJ software Traktor, you're able to have a dedicated Stereo out (via RCA) for your monitor as well as a stereo headphone out for your preview (via 1/4"). Exactly what you need for live shows. It's also easy to configure with programs like QLab for 4 outputs (cueing for Theatre and Installations).

Upsides / Downsides: Knobs on the front control outputs, but you can't use them to control individual outs (easily at least). The first two knobs are for gain and output, the second two are pre-gain for Mics and Ins. Be warned: the software utility isn't very good. It does the basics, but that's all. If you're a sound nerd, you'll be a little upset here -- not a deal-breaker though. You should be able to easily patch controls differently, but the only built in ability is to change what software channels go to what outputs -- and 1+2 are always paired with 3+4. You can always change this manually with programs like Soundflower or QLab, but Tascam should work on its stuff. The audio quality is great @ 16 and 24, but if you have too much stuff going on with your computer, the interface starts to act up with a delay or with gritty feedback. I'm not sure if this is a computer specific issue or the interface itself. My guess is that it's just maxing out. A restart or a simple unplug, replug seems to fix it.

Unlike other interfaces, this is true 4 out. The stereo output in the front is tied to channels 1+2, so even though there is technically 6 physical outputs, there are only 4 actual channels. Again - not a deal-breaker.

I don't do much recording, so haven't tested the inputs. I'm sure they're great (it's Tascam).

Would also like to see a levels indicator for outputs AND inputs on the interface like the old 410s (with green, yellow and red). That, along with knob configuration via the utility, would turn this "B" interface into an "A+." Definitely worth the money and probably the best thing on the market at this price range.

Comments about Tascam US-200 - USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface:

I bought this as an audio interface for my home studio month ago. First I was considering buying Tascam US-800 but just because of i didn't need so much inputs and outputs and i was concerned about place US-800 could take on my desk i went with US-200. At the moment I was buying US-200 there was an MIR from TASCAM for 15$ - will see how fast I will get it.

It's my first interface so it took me a while to understand how to setup device with my laptop (i have os: win 7 64bit) and with the Cubase LE. But if you just follow instructions from manual provided with the item you should be ok to setup all stuff for a max of 20 minutes.

US200 came with Cubase LE which is nice recording soft. I was able to plugin Native instruments VST as well as NI Guitar Rig to it so I am pretty satisfied with one.

Overall I think US200 is good and not expensive choice for not professional music makers. At least It fully satisfies my unprofessional music recording needs - I can plugin midi controller, guitar, mic and record all of that stuff in Cubase LE and monitor output with headsets or active monitors.