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Description

The Steinberg CI1 is your gateway to high-quality studio recording without breaking the bank. This USB-powered audio interface is perfect for musicians and producers looking to capture their sound with precision and ease. Equipped with two XLR/TRS combo connectors, the CI1 features high-quality microphone preamps that support both dynamic and condenser microphones, thanks to its onboard 48V phantom power.

The CI1 isn't just about hardware; it comes bundled with Sequel LE and WaveLab LE software, offering a comprehensive suite for music creation and audio editing. Whether you're recording at home or on the go, the CI1's compact design and USB power make it an ideal companion. Its dedicated high-impedance switch on the first channel allows you to plug in your electric guitar or bass directly, turning any space into your personal studio.

With 24-bit resolution and a 48 kHz sampling rate, the Steinberg CI1 ensures that your recordings are of professional quality. The interface provides latency-free monitoring with its Mono button and mix level control, allowing you to balance input and playback signals seamlessly. For flexible monitoring, the CI1 includes individual level controls for both master and headphone outputs, ensuring you have the control you need over your sound.

Key Features:

  • Two XLR/TRS combo inputs with high-quality microphone preamps
  • USB-powered for easy setup and portability
  • Onboard 48V phantom power for condenser microphones
  • Includes Sequel LE and WaveLab LE software
  • Dedicated high-impedance switch for direct guitar/bass input
  • 24-bit/48 kHz audio resolution for professional sound quality
  • Latency-free monitoring with Mono button and mix level control
  • Independent master and headphone level controls

FAQs

Is the Steinberg CI1 compatible with Mac and Windows operating systems?

Yes, the Steinberg CI1 is compatible with Mac OS X, Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Windows 7, providing cross-platform support for a wide range of users.

Does the Steinberg CI1 require an external power source?

No, the Steinberg CI1 is fully USB-powered, allowing you to record with total freedom without needing an external power source.

What type of microphones can I use with the Steinberg CI1?

The Steinberg CI1 features two mic preamps with +48 V phantom power, making it suitable for both dynamic and condenser microphones.

What DAW software comes with the Steinberg CI1?

The Steinberg CI1 includes Sequel LE and WaveLab LE, providing you with essential DAW software to start recording and editing your music right away.

Is the Steinberg CI1 suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Steinberg CI1 is designed with beginners in mind, offering plug & play functionality for easy setup and use.

Mika Salovaara

Mika Salovaara

Steinberg CI 1 USB-Interface

Video thumbnail for Steinberg CI 1 USB-Interface by Mika Salovaara

Steinberg CI 1 USB-Interface

Mika Salovaara

Mika Salovaara

Video thumbnail for Steinberg CI1 demo - tani interfejs audio USB do domowego studia, test na PortalStudyjny.pl by PortalStudyjny

Steinberg CI1 demo - tani interfejs audio USB do domowego studia, test na PortalStudyjny.pl

PortalStudyjny

PortalStudyjny

Video thumbnail for Steinberg CI1 - demo, test, review by PortalStudyjny

Steinberg CI1 - demo, test, review

PortalStudyjny

PortalStudyjny

Video thumbnail for steinberg CI 1 usb audio interface UNBOXING by Pál Teleki

steinberg CI 1 usb audio interface UNBOXING

Pál Teleki

Pál Teleki

Video thumbnail for Звуковая карта STEINBERG CI1 by PopMusicRu

Звуковая карта STEINBERG CI1

PopMusicRu

PopMusicRu

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Steinberg CI1.

Setup and maintenance

  • Users report extremely low output even when gain is adequately set, potentially due to computer misreading the interface as a line input.

    Source

Comparisons

  • While the CI1 supports 24-bit sound, its audio quality is reportedly inferior to other interfaces, with noticeable issues in sub and high frequencies.

    Source
  • The Steinberg UR series is recommended over the CI1 for its better performance, driver support, and transparent preamps, albeit at a slightly higher cost.

    Source
  • The MOTU M2, although similar in maximum input levels, is perceived to potentially offer better sound quality for live monitoring, despite having a slightly lower max input volume than the CI1.

    Source

User experience

  • Some owners experience audio cutouts and sound distortion, suggesting the CI1 may not capture true sound for professional production.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The CI1 has a Hi-Z switch, but users report distortion even at low gain settings, indicating potential limitations in handling passive pickups.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Users primarily using the CI1 for live guitar monitoring report sound degradation when increasing gain, suggesting it may not be ideal for dynamic live performances.

    Source
  • Users employ the Steinberg CI1 in live settings specifically for click track playback for drummers and backing tracks, indicating its use in performance contexts.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Some users experience clipping issues with the CI1 when using Amplitube and Guitar Rig, hinting at possible software compatibility concerns.

    Source
  • The Steinberg CI1 utilizes snd-usb-audio drivers for Linux compatibility, reportedly working out-of-the-box on Arch Linux without additional configuration.

    Source
  • Ubuntu Studio, with its real-time Linux kernel, is suggested as an effective environment for the CI1 interface, potentially enhancing performance for audio applications.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 5 Reviews and 16 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
knight

When it works, it works, When it has dropouts...it's annoying.

Because I am poor, I would switch the usb cord between my previous CI 1 unit to my midi keyboard when writing and recording songs. Eventually the midi input broke on both, so I replaced them. On the new one which I have only had for a year it has been causing sound dropouts. Whether I'm watching a video or recording. I have tried uninstalling and reinstalling the software so I am looking to upgrade. Any suggestions would be wonderful!

nerfmophix

Our audio interface

Our audio interface. After four years of using this unit, we sill consider it to be one of our best buys ever.

ravera

Nice !!

My first sound card .. love it, very simple and easy to use !

jamiroligna

Switchable

Using that thing to switch... Duhhhhh. Really simple to use

V

it meets my needs

it meets my needs!

Artist usage

Add artist
See how VINAI uses Steinberg CI1

VINAI

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo of VINAI's studio setup, the signature stumpy, flat knobs of the CI1 can be spotted to the far right of the shot.

See how Felix Jaehn uses Steinberg CI1

Felix Jaehn

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Instagram

In an Instagram post, Felix Jaehn is seen using the Steinberg CI1 soundcard during his studio sessions in Amsterdam.

See how Ramzoid uses Steinberg CI1

Ramzoid

Singer, Keyboardist

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video titled "MAKING THE MOST FIRE SONG EVER," Ramzoid uses the Steinberg CI1 as part of his studio recording setup.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Steinberg CI1, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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