"There is a gap in the market for a truly portable all-in-one box that works with the latest devices, and IK would seem to have come up with one...why have a separate MIDI controller and audio interface when you can have both in some sexy package?"

AskAudio has taken a close look at iRig Keys I/O 49 which impressed their expert reviewer, Hollin Jones, by the ease of setup, portability, keyboard quality and extensive software bundle.

Here are some of his key comments:

"This device feels like a culmination of many of the things IK has figured out while designing products that do just one or two of the things that the I/O can do."

"Remarkably the units use full sized keys - IK says they are the smallest devices on the market to do so - and feature an improved keybed that is responsive to use."

"There's a handy mobile device stand included for propping up your iPad - a thoughtful inclusion."

"The audio interface is capable of 24-bit / 96kHz operation and performed well in my tests, capturing a decent level from a studio condenser mic with low noise and negligible latency."

"There is a gap in the market for a truly portable all-in-one box that works with the latest devices, and IK would seem to have come up with one."

Hollin's conclusion is:

"As an all-in-one solution for mobile MIDI triggering, monitoring and simple audio recording, iRig Keys I/O is a handy and well thought-out solution that saves you carrying several devices around. Overall, a great concept, and well executed."

Key Plusses:
+ Supremely portable
+ Does almost everything down a single cable
+ Really no setup on Mac, PC or iOS
+ Good quality audio recording
+ Generous software bundle
+ Carry one device instead of 2 or 3
+ Mobile stand included

Read the full AskAudio review here
Learn more about iRig Keys I/O here