Instrument interface pioneers IK Multimedia have announced a replacement for 2013's iRig HD. The iRig HD 2 digital guitar/bass interface for iPhone, iPad, Mac and PC boasts improved sound quality, more ins and outs, and a wet/dry signal switch.
When we reviewed its predecessor back in 2013, we thought the iRig HD to be one of the better hobbyist-level interfaces we'd come across. But IK seems to have stepped up its game and is now offering pro-level analog-to-digital conversion at up to 24-bit/96 kHz resolution for the promised delivery of "an ultra clean, pure noiseless guitar signal" to mobile devices and computers.
As before, players can keep a watchful eye on input levels courtesy of multicolor LEDs, and adjust the gain using a dedicated control. Frequency response is reported to be 20 Hz to 20 kHz, and total harmonic distortion is 0.007 percent.
Where users of the previous model had to plug headphones into the connected mobile device, IK has included an integrated 3.5 mm headphone jack on the iRig HD 2 (a wise move given the iPhone 7 doesn't have one), along with a cooked in preamp and level control. This port can also be used to send a stereo output to powered monitors or speakers (with IK naturally suggesting its iLoud Micro models).
IK says that the new 0.25 inch amp out jack will allow players to use an iPhone, iPad, Mac or PC in a live rig setup without the need for other adapters. Guitarists can choose to send an unprocessed signal to an amp, recording gear or tuner, or rock out with device-based effects switched on. And the iRig HD 2 is supplied with a mic stand mount for live performance convenience.
As before, the new iRig HD doesn't have it's own battery, so will suck power from the device it's plugged into. But it is compatible with the company's iRig PowerBridge charging solution for extended play.
The 1.53 x 3.9 x 0.83 in (39 x 99 x 21 mm), 1.8 oz (51 g) iRig HD 2 also comes with a free download pass (in return for product registration) for full versions of the company's excellent modeling and recording software, AmpliTube.
Due to ship later this month, the iRig HD 2 is now up for pre-order, with a US$99.99 price tag. You can see what's on offer in the promo video below.
Product page: iRig HD 2
