Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (29)
$399.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (5)
$399.99
Amazon
3.9 (158)
$399.99
Reverb
4.0 (12)
$329.99 New
$119.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (1)
$399.99
zZounds
4.5 (6)
$299.99
B&H
3.0 (1)
$399.99
Thomann
4.6 (62)
$315.00 $314.00 $1.00 · All time low

Average Price: $346

Standard/Professional

$150

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 7 merchants for "IK Multimedia AXE I/O Audio Interface". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Introducing the IK Multimedia AXE I/O Audio Interface, a premium studio gear that's designed with the recording guitarist in mind. This professional 2-in/5-out audio interface doubles up as a controller, delivering top-tier sound quality and innovative features that streamline your recording process.

The AXE I/O comes with a unique PURE circuit that offers a transparent and ultra-accurate sound, boasting a dynamic range of >117 dB (A). The interface also features a JFET preamp that adds a subtle harmonic enhancement for a richer, warmer sound without sacrificing the dynamic range.

For guitarists, the patent-pending Z-Tone variable impedance Hi-Z input is a game-changer. It allows you to reshape your guitar's tone or match the impedance of a virtual gear model precisely. The front-panel Amp output simplifies re-amping, eliminating the need for a direct box and reducing ground loops or noise.

The AXE I/O is a comprehensive recording solution that includes two Class A mic preamps, transparent digital conversion, low-jitter clocking, and a high-current headphone amp. Plus, it comes with an onboard tuner, dedicated re-amp output, and two inputs for expression pedals or footswitches for real-time control over virtual rigs.

Key Features:

  • 2-in/5-out audio interface with controller functionality
  • PURE circuit for transparent and accurate sound
  • JFET preamp for subtle harmonic enhancement
  • Z-Tone variable impedance Hi-Z input for tone reshaping
  • Two Class A mic preamps with +48-volt phantom power
  • Transparent digital conversion with 24-bit/192kHz
  • Low-jitter clocking for artifact-free performances
  • Onboard tuner and dedicated re-amp output
  • Two inputs for expression pedals or footswitches
  • Includes a software bundle with AmpliTube Deluxe, 10 T-RackS Singles, and Ableton Live Lite

Product specs

Computer Connectivity USB 2.0
Form Factor Desktop
Simultaneous I/O 2 x 5
Number of Preamps 2 x mic, 2 x instrument
Phantom Power Yes
A/D Resolution Up to 24-bit/192kHz
Analog Inputs 2 x 1/4" (Hi-Z), 2 x XLR-1/4" combo (mic/line)
Analog Outputs 4 x 1/4" (line out), 1 x 1/4" (amp/re-amp out)
Headphones 1 x 1/4"
MIDI I/O In/Out
USB 1 x Type B
Other I/O 2 x 1/4" (remote footswitch/control)
Software AXE Control Panel, AmpliTube 4 Deluxe, Ableton Live Lite, T-RackS 5 Processors
OS Requirements - Mac OS X 10.11 or later, 64-bit
OS Requirements - PC Windows 7 SP1 or later, 64-bit
Power Supply 9V DC power supply (included)
Height 2.09"
Width 9.37"
Depth 8.31"
Weight 2.9 lbs.

FAQs

What makes the IK Multimedia AXE I/O unique for guitarists?

The IK Multimedia AXE I/O is tailored for guitarists with its advanced guitar tone shaping features, including a Hi-Z input and a re-amp output, which allows direct connection to guitar amps. It also comes bundled with AmpliTube and TONEX software for extensive tone customization.

Is the IK Multimedia AXE I/O compatible with both Mac and PC?

Yes, the AXE I/O is compatible with both Mac and PC. It requires macOS X 10.11 or later and Windows 7 SP1 or later, both in 64-bit versions.

Can the AXE I/O be used with popular DAWs like Ableton Live and Pro Tools?

The AXE I/O is compatible with a variety of DAWs, including Ableton Live, as it comes with Ableton Live Lite. It also integrates smoothly with other popular DAWs like Pro Tools.

What type of connectivity does the IK Multimedia AXE I/O offer?

The AXE I/O provides USB 2.0 connectivity and includes 2 mic preamps, 2 instrument inputs, 4 line outputs, a re-amp output, MIDI I/O, and a headphone output, offering versatile connection options for various recording setups.

Does the IK Multimedia AXE I/O support phantom power for condenser microphones?

Yes, the AXE I/O provides phantom power, enabling the use of condenser microphones for high-quality recordings.

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

IK Multimedia Axe I/O Audio Interface Demo

Video thumbnail for IK Multimedia Axe I/O Audio Interface Demo by Sweetwater

IK Multimedia Axe I/O Audio Interface Demo

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for An Interface For Guitarists! IK Multimedia Axe I/O! by Riffs, Beards & Gear

An Interface For Guitarists! IK Multimedia Axe I/O!

Riffs, Beards & Gear

Riffs, Beards & Gear

Video thumbnail for IK Multimedia AXE I/O - The Audio Interface for guitarists by james ryan

IK Multimedia AXE I/O - The Audio Interface for guitarists

james ryan

james ryan

Video thumbnail for IK Multimedia AXE I/O Guitarists 2 In / 5 Out Interface. Very Clever! by Brett Kingman

IK Multimedia AXE I/O Guitarists 2 In / 5 Out Interface. Very Clever!

Brett Kingman

Brett Kingman

Video thumbnail for IK Multimedia AXE I/O Audio Interface - Sound Demo (no talking) by Guitar Bonedo

IK Multimedia AXE I/O Audio Interface - Sound Demo (no talking)

Guitar Bonedo

Guitar Bonedo

Video thumbnail for AXE I/O - GUITAR AUDIO INTERFACE | IK MULTIMEDIA | DEMO and REVIEW by RICCARDO GIOGGI by Riccardo Gioggi

AXE I/O - GUITAR AUDIO INTERFACE | IK MULTIMEDIA | DEMO and REVIEW by RICCARDO GIOGGI

Riccardo Gioggi

Riccardo Gioggi

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional DI input options enhance sound quality for guitar/bass recordings

  • Noticeable improvement in sound quality from previous interfaces

  • Low latency and stable performance with Windows 10

  • Versatile input options cater to both active and passive pickups

  • Substantial software bundle, including Amplitube 4 deluxe

  • Intuitive user controls and easy setup

  • Built-in tuner, re-amp jack, and footswitch inputs add convenience

  • Excellent dynamic range and headphone amp

  • Multiple input topology for varied recording needs

  • Robust and durable build quality

CONS

  • Lacks Thunderbolt connectivity

  • Software installation and management can be cumbersome

  • Reactivation charges for missed free downloads

  • Limited customer support options and responsiveness

  • Only two inputs usable simultaneously despite having four inputs

Critic Reviews

IK Multimedia Axe I/O

soundonsound.com

IK Multimedia's AXE I/O audio interface is a well-designed, guitar-centric tool that impresses with its clean signal path and excellent bundled software, including AmpliTube 4 Deluxe and Ableton Live 10 Lite. The unique triple-topology input options provide versatility for both guitarists and bassists, allowing for a range of tones from pristine to valve-like warmth. However, the tuner can be a bit unreliable, often fluttering before settling, which might frustrate some users. Despite this minor drawback, the AXE I/O stands out for its value and functionality, making it an appealing choice for musicians looking to enhance their recording setup.

positive

IK Multimedia Axe I/O review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

With a robust feature set tailored for guitarists, the IK Multimedia AXE I/O stands out for its dedicated guitar input and reamping capabilities. The Z-Tone knob adds versatility to tonal adjustments, enhancing your recording experience. However, the included tuner underwhelms compared to competitors. Overall, this interface provides excellent quality at a reasonable price, making it a solid choice for guitarists looking to elevate their home studio setup.

positive
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5.0 out of 5

Based on 4 Reviews and 6 Ratings

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miguel_angelo

Amazing audio interface

This is a high quality device made in Italy. It specs out most of the competition with amazing dynamic range and amazing headphone amp, but what really sets this interface apart is:

  • The amazingly simple impedance knob, which really allows you to taylor your sound and the way your guitar's volume pot works in conjunction with the amp sims you're using. So simple yet it enhances passive pickup experience, I rediscovered some Marshall Amp Sim Plugins thanks to this simples knob, get's rid of a lot of harshness, it round's and warms up your overall tone.

  • The multiple input topology is another amazing feature, the inferface easily accepts active pickups, passive pickups, ultra low noise and hi-fi DI or warm JFET input. Simply amazing. Plugin my PRS SE Hollowbody II piezo output to channel 2 line input and the humbucker output to passive JFET input.

  • CV inputs, built-in tuner, and programable rotary/switch knob really set this interface apart from the crowd. You can plug a conventional expression pedal and two switch selector and have them mapped to anything in seconds. You can also program it's preset selector to control any parameter on your DAW, like presets, start/stop, markers, etc.

  • Tuner switch can also double as a monitor mute.

  • Superb headphone amp, with huge power to drive high impedance headphones.

  • Comprehensive controller application (although it always asks to be updated, even though it has the latest firmware)

Highly recommend this one. I also recommend Amplitube 5 Max pack (I got this one), although I had a couple of issues using the standalone app in Macbook M1.

Only thing missing is loopback, hope they add it in future firmware upgrades.

jedail

Best audio interface for axe player

Can't beat it with the guitar orientated features tgot.

Sound quality and low latency won't disapoint

maidenvt

Underrated Audio Interface

IMO the best interface for Bassist and guitarists who want to record quickly and effectively on the fly. This should be in everyone's studio.

roman_m

VERY GOOD!

Re-amping function is very comfortable. Superb hi-end quality! No any bugs.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Joe Satriani uses IK Multimedia AXE I/O Audio Interface

Joe Satriani

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via YouTube

Satriani is a featured spokeperson for the AXE I/O, as in this video.

See how Gus G. uses IK Multimedia AXE I/O Audio Interface

Gus G.

Guitarist

Ozzy Osbourne

...
Verified via Ultimate-guitar

I used a Jackson Monarch and for the clean parts, I used a Fender 1961 Reissue Strat that I have - the Gary Moore Strat. Amp-wise, honestly, this album was recorded with plug-ins basically, right into my interface. I use an IK Multimedia AXE I/O interface into ProTools and it's just easy and convenient to record.

See how Richard Henshall uses IK Multimedia AXE I/O Audio Interface

Richard Henshall

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Haken

...
Verified via Photo

"Massive thanks to @ikmultimedia for supplying me with their iRig Keys and AXE IO interface at such short notice for the upcoming @haken_official tour. They’re going to be perfect for recording and keeping the creative juices flowing whilst stuck on the sweaty tour bus."

See how Aziz Ibrahim uses IK Multimedia AXE I/O Audio Interface

Aziz Ibrahim

Guitarist

The Stone Roses

...
Verified via Ikmultimedia

Aziz has been given access to the sampled sound collection and has incorporated them into his own performances by triggering them using special MIDI apps on his iPad. In a custom 4-channel speaker setup, created by Aziz, he has used all 4 line outputs from his AXE I/O to feed 4 separate monitor speakers. Allowing the listener to be enveloped in sound from all four directions. Of course, Aziz used AmpliTube for iPad for his guitar tone and mounted his iPad with his iKlip Xpand to be able to use it during the performances, which has become an essential component of his live rig.

See how Ace uses IK Multimedia AXE I/O Audio Interface

Ace

Guitarist

Skunk Anansie

...
Verified via Ikmultimedia

In this link https://www.ikmultimedia.com/news/?item_id=8805 on IK Multimedia website Ace talks about how he uses the Axe I/O along with amplitube to lay down ideas, practice silently and record.

See how Roman Miroshnichenko uses IK Multimedia AXE I/O Audio Interface

Roman Miroshnichenko

Guitarist

Vai

...
Verified via Romanmiroshnichenko

Roman Miroshnichenko lists the IK Multimedia AXE I/O Audio Interface among his gear on his official website, highlighting its role in his studio recording setup.

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