Freqport has introduced the FreqInOut FO1, a peculiar device designed to bridge the gap between high-quality outboard equipment and seamless digital workflows. According to the company, this innovative product removes the complexities of connecting outboard gear to a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation), providing audio producers, musicians, and studio engineers with an all-in-one, simple solution.
FreqInOut FO1 In a Nutshell
In short, the FreqInOut FO1 is a hardware interface with 4 audio inputs and outputs, that connects to a computer via USB-C.
With FreqInOut, users can bring all their outboard processors, effects and instruments into the mix, saving time on complex setups and inconsistent timing.
Key Features and Capabilities
- Simplified Connectivity: The FreqInOut FO1 allows users to connect any kind of outboard equipment to a DAW without the hassle of advanced setup, routing, latency, and timing issues. It features four 1/4-inch jack audio inputs and outputs, labeled Line Inputs (1 through 4) and Line Outputs (1 through 4), alongside a USB-C port for computer connection.
- Enhanced Workflow: The FreqInOut plug-in enables effortless enhancement of audio workflows. Users can enable Mid/Side mode to work with stereo fields or mono signals separately, utilize the Hardware MIX feature for parallel processing of connected hardware gear, fine-tune gain staging, and experiment with unique effect pedal routings or mix analogue and digital synths.
- Analog Harmony Core Technology: This technology allows producers to capture the authenticity of analogue sound while enjoying the convenience and precision of digital control. It supports up to 192kHz sample rate with onboard 32-bit pro-grade ESS converters.
- Scalability and Flexibility: The FreqInOut FO1 can work with an existing audio interface to add four more inputs and outputs (eight if connecting two FreqInOut FO1 boxes), enhancing an audio setup seamlessly. The built-in hardware ANALOG MATRIX makes reconfiguring the signal flow through outboard equipment an effortless experience without adding latency.
- Customization: Users can take a photo of connected equipment and settings by scanning the QR code in the plug-in to create custom skins within the plug-in itself.
Availability and Pricing
The FreqInOut FO1 will be available for purchase starting in November 2024 at a retail price of $549.00 USD. Pre-orders are now open through Freqport’s website and authorized dealers worldwide.
Additional Options
A rack-mount kit will be available as an optional extra, particularly useful for those purchasing two FreqInOut FO1s for expanded eight-channel I/O capability.
Compatibility
The FreqInOut FO1 supports all major DAWs (including the recently released PreSonus Studio One Pro 7) and operating systems, making it a versatile tool for both home studios and professional environments.
FreqInOut FO1 – Do You Really Need It?
I hear you. At a glance, this product looks puzzling. You might ask “how is this better than using the good old hardware insert plugin in our DAW, and going in and out of our interface?”. While waiting for some real life demonstration, we can safely say that FreInOut FO1 is essentially designed to simplify (and enhance) the integration between outboard and our DAWs, i.e. automatically dealing with delay compensation, and allowing users to blend the signal for parallel processing as well as M/S.
We’ll have more on this once we are able to put our hands on the unit. In the meantime you can read more on the FreqInOut FO1 on Freqport’s website
