Topic: E-MU's Tracker Pre USB 2.0 Audio Interface/Mobile Preamp

[cybergaloot]

I stumbled on this while cruising the web:
http://www.emu.com/products/product.asp?category=610&subcategory=611&product=17511
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E-MU's Tracker Pre USB 2.0 Audio Interface/Mobile Preamp is the ultimate portable USB audio interface for Mac and PC, offering pristine 24-bit/192kHz recording and playback, direct monitoring, and a host of professional features in a compact, USB bus-powered package. The Tracker Pre USB provides users with two Class-A ultra-low noise Mic/Line/Hi-Z preamplifiers that can be run independently or in stereo to record guitars, keyboards or microphones with optimal audio performance. CurrentMorph™, a patent-pending circuit design, allows Tracker Pre to offer +48V phantom power and use premium high-power converters while using only USB bus power.

A couple of interesting features:

5 VDC Power Adapter (optional)
Although the Tracker Pre is normally bus-powered via USB, it can also be powered by an optional 5-Volt DC power adapter to allow it to be used as a stand-alone stereo microphone preamplifier. (power consumption )

Stereo Mic Input
This 1/8" mini-phone jack is designed to accept a stereo, electret condenser microphone. The jack supplies +5VDC phantom power. Mono microphones can also be connected and will use input 1L. Note: The Stereo Mic jack takes precedence over the Hi-Z/Mic/Line inputs. Inserting a 1/8" plug disables the other inputs.

Inserts (1L & 2R)
These unbalanced TRS jacks allow you to insert a signal processor, such as a compressor or EQ, after the mic preamps, but before the A/D converter stage. The Insert jacks can also be used to tap off the mic preamp outputs when using the Tracker Pre as a stand-alone stereo microphone preamp.
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$149 @ Musician's Friend
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It looks like it can be used as a portable battery powered preamp with Phantom Power for condenser mics or for some of the smaller stereo mic rigs. I haven't found dimensions or weight specs yet but it looks somewhat small and light (Plastic). It certainly will not replace the small battery powered pre's like the CA-9100 for low profile applications, esp. not the CA-UGLY. This might be a good entry level product for noobies because it will work with a variety of mics and recording setups and allows for a variety of paths for upgrading or expanding starter rigs.

So, anybody have any feedback as to sound quality? That's the big question! I know ... you get what you pay for but sometimes there are deals. I'm not in the market for it myself, well ... probably not.

[trustthex]

Pretty lengthy review here... reading it now. 

http://external-audio-interface.e-mu.en.audiofanzine.com/products/reviews/index,idproduit,129511,mao,tracker_preusb_20.html

[cybergaloot]

He seems to think its a pretty good bang for the buck. Now what is needed is some field testing by people with our particular uses.

His conclusions:
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E-MU’s gambit seems to have worked: their CurrentMorph circuit design looks like a winner. Though the device can only handle two input signals simultaneously, it’s able to deal with many different connections thanks to it’s combo inputs and preamps. The drivers are stable and latency is quite low. And though I think it could have used a midi in/out, it seems to be a pretty complete low-cost solution. In addition, the device is designed to serve different purposes (like serving as a autonomous preamp with external power or an audio interface). Even if there are better preamps and converters out there (of that there’s no doubt), the ones on this unit are better than you would expect for this price range. In the end, despite a few quirks, the Tracker Pre USB 2.0, with a MSRP of around $199.99, is a very good value for the money.

Pluses:
Value for the Money
Software Bundle
Preamps - value for the money
Completely USB Powered - including Phantom Power!
Drivers - Low Latency
Direct Monitoring
Inserts
Ground-Lift Switches
Versatility - Can also be used as an autonomous Preamp

Minuses:
Phantom Power Pop - when turned on and off
The GUI (or lack of it)
Level Indicators - could have used at least one more
Continuous Direct Monitoring Knob
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Like I said, this might make a great starter pre. Not perfect but passable and adaptable. A whole lot of the people wanting to record have laptops so add this, some budget mics, cables and a stand and you are in business. Add an H120 or JB3 or an all in one like an R-09HR and a DVD battery and you've got an easily portable a rig.

I'm saving for an R-44 myself so I don't need this, it just looked interesting. Plus I'm watching the progress on the Five Fish Studios pre that is practically being designed in this forum though I may be entering gear slut territory if I buy one: http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,108569.0.html (but its so damn pretty!)

[beeco]

http://cgi.ebay.com/EMU-E-MU-0404-usb-2-0-PC-Soundcard-FREE-SHIPPING-NEW_W0QQitemZ230285200274QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item230285200274&_trkparms=72%3A134|39%3A1|66%3A2|65%3A12|240%3A1318&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14

Another E-MU device with potential, but I couldn't find anyone who knew anything about it. Still searching.

[cybergaloot]

Actually it was from looking up the 404 in your thread that I stumbled across this pre. I kind of got distracted after that. I noticed that the ebay item said it was an "EMU 0404 USB Soundcard". They do make a soundcard version from what I saw but that's not what they are picturing. I'd find out for sure which item they meant before bidding.

[trustthex]

ebay is firewalled here at work, but iirc, the tracker pre is an upgrade to the 202, and the 404 appears to be an upgrade from that... probably wouldn't allow you to use the pre/phantom untethered from usb however.

[cybergaloot]

Actually the 404 isn't USB powered, it has a 5vDC input for power. It has no inserts and the write up at the E-MU web site makes no mention of being able to be used without the USB hooked up: http://www.emu.com/products/product.asp?product=15185&nav=features. The main outputs may be after A/D conversion and may actually require computer processing like the UA-5 without the digimod or an M-Audio Mobile Pre.

[beeco]

just sent an email via the E-MU website to ask whether the 0404 works in standalone mode or whether it has to be connected via USB to a computer to pass an analog or digital signal.  I'll report their response.

[cybergaloot]

just sent an email via the E-MU website to ask whether the 0404 works in standalone mode or whether it has to be connected via USB to a computer to pass an analog or digital signal.  I'll report their response.

+T

[trustthex]

everyone has probably noticed this by now, but the 0202 has only one xlr, hence the tracker pre being an upgrade.  the 0404 has all of the controls on the top, which makes it alot less worthwhile for what we do...

[flintstone]

Looks like the Tracker Pre can provide 48V DC "phantom" power on the XLR, or
5V DC "plug in" power on the 1/8-inch stereo jack.  Nice!

[Kevin T]

Yep

Finally a pre/ powersource  for my 5v 3.5mm stealth's AND l my Larger 48v XLR mics. And a good USB interface direct monitor too!

[flintstone]

Here's the word on the Tracker's power needs, from EMU tech support.

Tracker external power supply
INPUT: AC100V  50-60Hz  28VA
OUTPUT: DC5V 2.4A


The 2.4A draw at 5V DC is higher than I expected.

Flintstone

[cybergaloot]

Here's the word on the Tracker's power needs, from EMU tech support.

Tracker external power supply
INPUT: AC100V  50-60Hz  28VA
OUTPUT: DC5V 2.4A


The 2.4A draw at 5V DC is higher than I expected.

Flintstone

I'm not disputing the numbers but they sure aren't pulling 2.4A when they are using the USB bus for power, I wonder why the external power draw would be so high? Especially since they tout the circuitry for producing Phantom Power. Actually I bet the walwart is CAPABLE of producing 2.4A, not that the unit NEEDS that much power. I could be wrong though, I often am. I'm getting used to it though.

[beeco]

Here is E-MU tech support's answer to my question as to whether the 0404 USB 2.0 interface can be used in standalone mode...

Bevin,

Unfortunately, the 0404USB cannot be used without the connected to a PC.

However our new product, the Tracker Pre, has the ability to work standalone as a preamp.

Best regards,
Phil
EMU Systems

We already knew the Tracker Pre could do that, I think.

[anechoic]

Here's the word on the Tracker's power needs, from EMU tech support.

Tracker external power supply
INPUT: AC100V  50-60Hz  28VA
OUTPUT: DC5V 2.4A


The 2.4A draw at 5V DC is higher than I expected.

Flintstone

the 2.4A is not a DRAW i.e., the current the preamp needs to operate
it is a rating for the maximum current able to be supplied by the wall wart

they usually spec an external supply double what's actually needed by a device so the supply doesn't blow up or catch on fire

 

[Kevin T]

what USB battery power supply would be good to power this for 3hr Fantom + pre gain?

[sunjan]

Did anyone try this in the field yet?
Like said earlier, it could be good value for an entry level taper with a H2 or R-09 who wants to try out open taping or phantom mics.
Current street price $130

what USB battery power supply would be good to power this for 3hr Fantom + pre gain?

Kevin, I would rather utilize the 5VDC jack for standalone use, since that's what E-MU intended. Connecting anything to the USB port might change the behavior of the analog out jacks (see 11 below). Using a USB battery pack might also be less efficient since it probably powers some circuits that are only needed when connected to a PC:



11. These unbalanced TRS jacks allow you to insert a signal processor, such as a compressor or EQ, after the mic preamps, but before the A/D converter stage. The Insert jacks can also be used to tap off the mic preamp outputs when using the Tracker Pre as a stand-alone stereo microphone preamp.

[cybergaloot]

I haven't done any follow up on this unit. When I first saw it I looked for customer reviews that looked meaningful and didn't find much but that was a while back, maybe its time to search for reviews again.

For me it would be a versatile backup unit but I don't expect miracles for that price.

[sunjan]

For me it would be a versatile backup unit but I don't expect miracles for that price.

Thanks for researching! Agreed that the performance is probable mediocre, but the price and footprint is a good stepping stone for newbies before they upgrade to better gear.

I just found out about the pretty small specs:

Weight: 0.94 lb / 0.43 kg (excl DIY battery pack)
Dimensions:
W: 6.5” H: 2.0” L: 5.5”
W: 165 mm H: 50.8 mm L: 140 mm

Almost comparable to the PS2:
Dimensions: 4.0 x 1.25 x 3.0 inches
Weight: 8 ounces / 0.23 kg

For someone on a tight budget who is intimidated by large boxes, running maybe a H320, I would consider recommending this as a simple entry level P48+preamp. Provided it proves to work in the field! 

[cybergaloot]

I guess one of us will just have to take the leap and buy one for testing. For me that will have to come after I get an R-44 and some of Chris Church's CAFS mics and his CA-UGLY pre. And I also want an LSD2 ... and I want ... and I want ...
I guess I'm turning into a gear slut, a gear slut on a budget!

[DSatz]

This looks like an attempt to compete with Sound Devices. Nice that the mike preamps and the A/D converters can be unhitched from each other via the send/return sockets--that's not a very common feature, but it can be useful sometimes.

Unfortunately it looks as if a computer with a USB port would really be required for digital recording. There's no S/P-DIF or other digital output, and no way to set the sampling rate and bit depth other than through software commands. But for the intended purpose, it looks on "paper" as if it could be an excellent value.

--best regards

[digifish_music]

FWIW, I have used the USB0404 and the mic pres on that are very nice (clean gain). With EMU (Part of Creative labs - soundcards etc) you are looking at economies of scale orders of magnitude above the normal music equipment/preamp/ENG suppliers. Cheap does not mean bad when it comes to Emu stuff.

digifish