Archive notice: This article was originally published on July 1, 2010. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.
Steinberg Media Technologies announces the release of two new interfaces: CI1 and CI2+. Together with CI2, which appeared last year, CI1 and CI2+ belong to Steinberg’s portable CI audio-interface family. Both interfaces are fully USB-powered and offer two combo inputs (XLR/jack) with microphone preamps and +48 V phantom power, one of which has a Hi-Z switch for connecting electric guitars. While the entry-level CI1 device is supplied in a bundle with Steinberg’s Sequel LE sequencer and the WaveLab LE 7 audio-editing application, CI2+ includes the Cubase Essential 5 music-production system. CI2+ also offers an extensive controller section for controlling Cubase functions. CI1 and CI2+ will soon be available from specialist retailers and the Steinberg Online Shop for EUR 119 and EUR 339 respectively.
CI1 has two line/mic inputs with high-quality microphone preamps, phantom power and a special Hi-Z switch for the first input channel, allowing an electric guitar or electric bass to be connected directly. The CI1 software package consists of the “Light” versions of two well-known Steinberg products: Sequel LE and WaveLab LE 7. Sequel LE is perfect software for beginners who want an easy-to-use solution for recording their music, while WaveLab LE 7 offers professional functions for audio editing, mastering and publishing audio material on the internet.
CI2+ has the same hardware equipment as CI1, with two high-quality inputs, balanced XLR/jack combo sockets, integrated microphone preamps with +48 V phantom power and a Hi-Z switch. In addition, however, CI2+ offers a controller section with Steinberg’s revolutionary AI Knob, Action Pad and additional controls for Cubase’s transport functions. This allows almost every parameter of the supplied Cubase Essential music software to be controlled with the CI2+ hardware. With additional sound content, a first-class guitar amp simulator and other great effects and integrated VST instruments, Cubase Essential is a perfect complement to the largest CI interface.
CI1 and CI2+ each cover a broad range of applications and can be used in the studio, rehearsal room or on the move. This makes the CI-series interfaces ideal for all hobby musicians, guitarists, singers, electronic-music producers and similar users.