TheAlesis MultiMix 8 USB compact mixer with built-in effects doubles as a computer recording interface so you can mix, record, or do both at the same time. Whether you are mixing a band or sub-mixing a group of inputs, such as a drumset, the MultiMix 8 USB FX is easy to use, rugged and packed with features. Offering microphone inputs with phantom power, guitar-direct inputs, and line-level inputs for connecting everything else, plus a wide range of effects, the MultiMix 8 USB FX delivers clean audio to your PA or recording system plus hassle-free computer connection.MultiMix 8 USB FX features four XLR inputs with independent gain pots on channels one through four. These XLR inputs also have a switchable phantom power option to accommodate both dynamic and condenser microphones. TRS Line inputs are also available on all eight channels of MultiMix 8 USB FX. New to the MultiMix 8 USB FX is a high-impedance input on channel two, which allows direct connection of a guitar or bass; this is a great convenience for singer/songwriters looking to get a clean, hot signal. A Tape RCA stereo input is also included adding the ability to mix in audio from other sources such as a CD or LP player.MultiMix 8 USB FX includes an internal effects processor to quickly and easily add new colours to your mix. Reverb, Delay or Phaser can be dialled up simply by adjusting the pre or post fader knobs located within each channel strip. MultiMix 8 USB FX also contains Aux Out and stereo Returns, as well as, Insert jacks on channels one and two to allow for audio to be processed by external effects engines. MultiMix 8 USB FX gives you an impressive amount of routing options in such a compact size.Like the other mixers in Alesis MultiMix USB series, including the MultiMix 4 USB and MultiMix 6 USB, the MultiMix 8 USB FX contains a complete USB recording interface. Musicians and engineers can plug the MultiMix 8 USB FXs class-compliant USB connection into their Mac or PC without installing any software drivers and enjoy a digital-direct stereo connection with virtually any audio software application. The MultiMix 8 USB FX enables bidirectional stereo signal, so musicians can record the stereo Main output into their computer and listen back using the mixer as an interface from software to headphones and monitoring loudspeakers.A number of key design improvements are included on the MultiMix 8 USB FX. Enlarged knob-to-knob spacing improves ergonomics and in-use efficiency. The newly designed mixer introduces a sleek new appearance for the MultiMix series and incorporates new, removable end caps, which can be helpful for squeezing the MultiMix 8 USB FX into smaller spaces in tightly packed setups. In addition to its improved signal-to-noise ratio specifications, the new mixer consumes 36% less power than its predecessor for reliability and energy efficiency.