Sound Devices introduced the USBPre 2 a few days ago. This is an update of=
their popular USBPre preamp. The USBPre 2 uses meters from the Sound Devi=
ces mixer line, and the same preamp design and components as the 7 series r=
ecorders, i.e., about as good as a field preamp gets.
The documentation for the USBPre mentions coax optical input and output via=
RCA jacks, but I don't see these ports on the photos of the USBPre. Perha=
ps the unit in the photos is a pre-production model.
The USBPre 2 web page is http://www.sounddevices.com/products/usbpre2.htm
Like its predecessor, the USBPre 2 has no battery compartment. Power must c=
ome from an external 5V source of no more than 500 mA, connected to the USB=
port. Needing an external power source makes the USBPre 2 a little harder=
to use in the field. This sort of power source is used to recharge electr=
onics like iPods and cell phones, and is commonly available.
Dimensions of the USBPre 2 are 180 x 100 x 43 mm, weight about 500 g.
Retail price will be $650 USD. The product will be available in October. =
The original USBPre price is now $550.
--oryoki
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