In either version, StudioConnect is an all-in-one audio/MIDI interface that also functions as a charging port with a 10-watt external power supply. Rear panel connections provide all I/O with 1/4-inch instrument mono input--guitars and synths, a 1/8-inch mini stereo line input jack, MIDI IN and Out jacks, and L/R RCA line output jacks for connections to your stereo sound system for monitoring.

On the front of the StudioConnect is a stereo headphone mini jack with a large chrome volume knob for adjusting headphone level only. I like the cool, blue glowing ring that surrounds the volume control. For setting record levels, there is a side-mounted mic gain control with +6dB to +26dB of mic gain available for easily recording direct guitar or bass guitar. The record level for stereo audio from an external mixer or stereo synth coming into the rear mini jack is controlled at the mixer or synth--sweet.

I like that StudioConnect firmly stays put on my desktop and provides a stable platform when I want to use WaveMachines Labs' Auria or any of my Smaart Tools' iPad Spectrum Audio Tools.