other stuff
M-Audio Fast Track Ultra 8R
M-Audio Fast Track Ultra 8R USB 8x8 Audio Interface
make: M-Audio
model: Fast Track Ultra 8R
release date: 2007
description:
The Fast Track Ultra 8R from M-Audio is an audio/MIDI interface designed for comprehensive studio work, delivering eight inputs and eight outputs via high-speed USB 2.0 connectivity. The interface has eight premium preamps that supply phantom power and also feature 20dB pads. The unit is housed in a single rack space enclosure.
The on-board MX Core DSP mixer processes eight hardware inputs and eight software returns to the eight hardware outputs, expanding the total I/O to a 16 x 8 configuration, delivering flexible routing and monitoring with delay and reverb. Reliable, low-latency drivers provides compatibility with most major recording software.
features:
USB 2.0
• Fast Track Ultra 8R utilizes high-speed USB 2.0 technology to deliver the bandwidth for 24-bit/96kHz audio resolution throughout the recording and monitoring process.
• With a maximum data transfer speed of 480Mbps, this jump in performance allows you to enjoy outstanding sound quality on all inputs and outputs simultaneously
Built-In Effects Processing
• MX Core DSP technology provides reverb and delay on the headphone outputs with separate sends for every channel
• Now you can add effects without taxing your CPU resources or introducing latency
I/O
• 8 channels of analog inputs and outputs plus 2-channel digital S/PDIF provide input flexibility with room to grow
• 2 dedicated analog inserts on the first two channels, allowing you to insert outboard processing before A/D conversion
• Easy connection via USB 2.0 delivers both audio and MIDI communication with your computer
Channel Routing
• Create multiple monitor mixes easily when recording other musicians
• The robust MX Core mixer employs an array of 8 individual DSP cores to deliver near-zero latency and a matrix for sophisticated channel routing options, accessible via an intuitive control panel that utilizes a separate mixer for each pair of outputs
• The mixer expands the total I/O to a 16 x 8 configuration, allowing you to connect synthesizers and outboard gear to any of the interface's hardware inputs, then mix them with the 8 audio streams coming from your computer
Preamps
• 8 preamps with M-Audio Octane technology create a premium front end that delivers exceptional audio clarity
• Low-noise, high-gain pre-amplification with enough channels for applications like mic'ing drum kits or recording complete ensembles
• Features include +48V phantom power for condenser microphones, signal/peak LED indicator lights and a pull-out gain knob that activates a 20dB pad for recording at high volumes
Headphones
• Whether you usually track vocals or an ensemble, you're likely to need multiple headphone mixes
• 2 completely independent headphone outputs allow you can take advantage of the DSP mixer's powerful routing options and create the right mix for your performers, complete with reverb and delay
specs:
For a full list of specs, check out these resources;
overview:
Over the years I have invested in 2 of these units second-hand, which I acquired each for quite a nice price. However the driver was only officially supported up until Windows 7. With the advent of Windows 10, I managed to successfully get the Ultra 8R working with low latency without the BSOD. I will update the version I have found and offer a link to it here soon!
Now that Microsoft are hovering Windows 11 like the sword of Damocles above our heads, along with the bad press regarding the many millions of "non-upgradable" Windows 10 PCs and laptops heading for landfill, it made me think...
...Not only do I have the headache of disposing & replacing many of my Windows machines, what about the drivers connecting those machines to the equipment I love and use?
So I performed a search and found a short video on YouTube by Jeff Rouse;
M Audio Fast Track Ultra 8R - Easy windows 11 config
He mentions the driver he used, but there is no link to download it. However, by closely studying the video, I managed to track down the driver he is purporting to work in Windows 11.
I have not tested this myself, so I cannot endorse this driver at this time, but for those of you willing to give it a try, here it is...
Fast_Track_Ultra_8R_6_1_9_Driver_79969.zip
SHA256: 01ADA745CE4C776C8A0BDB035DA2F89778A7B047E2C66BEB4C2A8989CBEFAAD5