Alesis Product Specialist Rob Bachi gives an overview of the Alesis ProTrack at the 2009 NAMM Show.

The Alesis ProTrack is a $200 gadget turns your iPod into a digital audio recorder. You can record 16-bit, 44.1kHz or 22kHz stereo digital audio without connecting any additional equipment, using ProTrack’s onboard pair of cardioid condenser microphones.

The on-board mics are fixed in XY configuration for stereo imaging. ProTrack also has a pair of combo XLR-1/4″ inputs enabling you to connect condenser and dynamic microphones and mixer outputs. ProTrack can also supply 48V phantom power to its inputs for operation with external condenser microphones.

Details below.

Alesis ProTrack Features:

• Combo XLR-1/4″ inputs for connecting mics, mixers, and more
• Stereo 1/8″ headphone output
• 48V phantom power for use with external condenser mics
• Records 16-bit, 44.1kHz or 22kHz stereo digital audio
• Onboard stereo condenser microphones for detailed pickup
• Built-in mics in XY configuration for accurate stereo image
• Switchable limiter
• AC/DC operation on 4 AAA batteries or AC adapter (included)
• Threaded mounting point for tabletop and floor-stand applications

Specifications:

ANALOG INPUTS

• Two combination XLR-1/4″

GAIN

• Internal Mic Inputs: +6dB to 49.3dB
• External Inputs (XLR): +6dB to 49.3dB
• External Inputs (1/4″):    -11.3dB to +32dB

THD+N

• 2nd & 3rd Gen. iPod nano: 0.01% @ 92dB SNR A-weighted (charge off, min. gain)
• 5th Gen. iPod / iPod Classic: 0.014% @ 88dB SNR A-weighted (charge off, min. gain)

DIGITAL CIRCUITRY

• Bit Depth: 16-bit
• Sample Rates: 44.1kHz (high); 22.05kHz (low)

MAIN OUTPUTS

• Max Level: +0.3dBu Maximum
• THD+N: < 0.01% @ 1kHz

HEADPHONE OUTPUTS

• Max Level: 75Ω output impedance, 40mW into 32Ω

BATTERY LIFE

• Without phantom power: > 3 hours
• Using phantom power: > 2 hours

EXTERNAL BATTERY PACK REQUIREMENTS

• 6V DC 1A
• 2mm diameter (center pin); 5.5mm outside diameter
• Wired as center positive

WEIGHT (ProTrack only, without batteries or iPod)

• 8 oz. (226.8 g)

DIMENSIONS (ProTrack only)

• 7.25″ (184.15 mm)