NAMM 2018: IK Multimedia teases new product, but can it fulfil our expectations?
Ahead of the NAMM 2018 show in California, IK Multimedia has teased a new product that’s about to debut at the event. Promising “a new level of hardware/software integration for stage and studio”, the video alludes towards something very reminiscent of an audio interface in general looks. But can this offering hold up to the big claims being made?
Clearly, whatever this thing is, it’s equipped to handle audio streams and MIDI I/O. It is, however, difficult to discern what product concept IK Multimedia could be coming up with. The marketing language here is about breaking barriers and bridging gaps. The company’s catalogue is already fairly dense with products in the audio interface category, featuring plenty of small-format devices for guitar/instrument players and hobby recordists.
Another possibility is that IK is making a hybrid controller/software type of machine. Maybe it’s a device meant to deliver hands-on control over IK’s software suite. Or DAW control in general. However, the presence of 48V phantom power visible in the image points us in the audio interface direction once more. But the live sound aspect could be important here, given the treadplate-like texture on the surface, suggesting live and stage use.
The device in the teaser is slightly reminiscent of an Apogee product, with its glossy black finish and ample LEDs. It’s difficult to know where IK may be going with this, considering this cryptic teaser video is literally all the intel we have at the moment. Perhaps a new iRig, or a an entirely new IK product line?
After the similarly cryptic teaser video for IK’s Keys I/O, our expectations were high, yet the product, when it came, didn’t quite fulfil the hype its makers had hoped for. We’ll learn more about this new unit at NAMM 2018, which officially starts January 25, or in the days ahead. What do you think IK is coming up with? Share your opinion in the comments section below!
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