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Average Price: $346
Standard/Professional
$150
$501+
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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
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What makes the IK Multimedia AXE I/O unique for guitarists?
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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.
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Is the IK Multimedia AXE I/O compatible with both Mac and PC?
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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.
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Can the AXE I/O be used with popular DAWs like Ableton Live and Pro Tools?
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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.
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What type of connectivity does the IK Multimedia AXE I/O offer?
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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.
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Does the IK Multimedia AXE I/O support phantom power for condenser microphones?
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Yes, the AXE I/O provides phantom power, enabling the use of condenser microphones for high-quality recordings.
Videos
Sweetwater
IK Multimedia Axe I/O Audio Interface Demo
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional DI input options enhance sound quality for guitar/bass recordings
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Noticeable improvement in sound quality from previous interfaces
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Low latency and stable performance with Windows 10
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Versatile input options cater to both active and passive pickups
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Substantial software bundle, including Amplitube 4 deluxe
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Intuitive user controls and easy setup
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Built-in tuner, re-amp jack, and footswitch inputs add convenience
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Excellent dynamic range and headphone amp
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Multiple input topology for varied recording needs
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Robust and durable build quality
CONS
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Lacks Thunderbolt connectivity
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Software installation and management can be cumbersome
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Reactivation charges for missed free downloads
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Limited customer support options and responsiveness
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Only two inputs usable simultaneously despite having four inputs
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 4 Reviews and 6 Ratings
984
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.
103
Best audio interface for axe player
Can't beat it with the guitar orientated features tgot.
Sound quality and low latency won't disapoint
Artist usage
Add artist
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.
"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."
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.
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.
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