“Apple Computer is expected to introduce a new audio interface for GarageBand users in the coming months. The analog [to] FireWire audio device, the first product of its recently created iPod division, will allow users to directly record audio using any Mac and Apple’s GarageBand music studio application. According to reputable sources, the company is on track to begin manufacturing the device overseas next month,” Kasper Jade reports for AppleInsider.
“The device, code-named ‘Q97’ or ‘Asteroid,’ has been under development at the company for the better part of the year. Typically referred to as a ‘breakout box’ in the music recording industry, the external audio device attaches to a computer and offers audio inputs and outputs for attaching instruments or other audio sources. Apple is reportedly building the device around GarageBand, its popular application for aspiring musicians,” Jade reports.
“According to sources, Asteroid will include two XLR/ TRS audio input connectors, two RCA analog output jacks, and a standard headphone jack. The device will draw power through a single FireWire 400 port and include a phantom on/off power switch,” Jade reports. “In addition to the aforementioned specs, a more advanced version of the Asteroid device – recently seen floating around the Apple’s Cupertino campus – sports an additional S/PDIF optical output port; however, it is unclear which version the company will ultimately send to manufacturing… [The device is] expected to debut in January, alongside a revised version of Apple’s iLife digital lifestyle software suite.”
More info and an artist’s rendering of the rumored device is at AppleInsider here.
