New ALESIS ProTracks: makes your i-pod look like (and works like...) a digital recorder

The new ProTrack, from Alesis, is a great new way to capture sound effects, recitals, jam sessions, speeches, interviews, rehearsals, performances, meetings, lectures, notes-to-self, and anything else you can thing of… directly to your iPod/iPod Touch/iPhone. With a chassis similar to the Zoom H4n, the ProTrack is the newest entry into the mobile recording device market, and I believe that it will be very popular - especially with educators who have iPod and iPod Touches that have been purchased through the school for use in the classroom. Here are the details on what you can do with the ProTrack:

-You can record detailed, 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 optimal stereo imaging.

-The ProTrack also has a pair of combo XLR-1/4″ inputs enabling you to connect any professional sound source, including condenser and dynamic microphones and mixer outputs. Whether you are running on plug-in or battery power, ProTrack supplies 48V phantom power to its inputs for operation with external condenser microphones. This is great if you’d like to step up the quality of your microphones when recording. Simply plug the XLR cables directly into the ProTrack, get your recording levels, and you’re good to go.

-The ProTrack has LED-level metering for instant visual indication, even in a dark club. You can monitor or play back recordings on the 1/8″ stereo-headphone output. Controls for phantom power, limiter, and volume are easy to access.

-The ProTrack records directly into your iPod/iPod Touch/iPhone. If you have an iPod, when you plug it into the ProTrack it will simply open the voice memo application that is hidden inside your iPod. If you are going to use your iPod Touch, you’ll need to download an app from the iTunes App Store called iPro Recorder. If you are using your iPhone (which is not on the official list of compatible devices but it worked with my iPhone 3GS) you simply use the Voice Memo app. To get the recordings off of your iPod/iPod Touch/iPhone, simply manually sync your device to your computer and the recordings will transfer to your computer for posting/burning/etc.

-The ProTrack can be powered by four AAA batteries or AC power using the included adapter.

-A 1/4″-20 threaded mounting point enables you to mount ProTrack on a mic stand with the optional ProTrack Adapter, on a table with the optional ProTrack Tripod table stand, or on a camera tripod for hands-free tracking.

I have been playing with my new ProTrack for three days now, and I am very impressed with the results. There are a few adapters included in the box that make whatever device you own fit the ProTrack. It feels pretty solid, and I love the combination inputs. For teachers who are in the market for a professional quality handheld digital recorder who already own an iPod, iPod Touch or iPhone, this is a perfect solution. If you already own a handheld recorder (like I do) and just love gear - I strongly recommend getting it :). Not convinced? Check out thisreview of the ProTrack from the NAMM Show.

Educational pricing for the Alesis ProTrack is $149.00. Visit the SoundTree store to purchase your ProTrack today OR call us at (800) 963-8733 to speak with an Account Manager.