Creative recently dropped a new USB audio interface for the world, providing one more solution for podcasters, streamers, or anyone else looking to capture audio to their computer or live stream. It is the new Creative Live! Audio A3 USB Audio Interface.
The new interface offers some of your favorite features, like I/O that goes every which way. Including two balanced and unbalanced XLR or 1/4-inch inputs as well as two balanced/unbalanced 1/4-inch outputs. You can use the inputs to capture microphones, instruments, or line-level devices.
It can clearly send to a smartphone or computer via USB (as it is a USB interface) and has two headphone jacks in the front so two users can listen in with volume controls for either. It can also receive mobile audio via the same USB or via 3.5mm and the user can control volume for that separately from the USB inputs. There is also a mute button on the front as well as a master volume knob.
So long story short, it is a USB audio interface like most you’ll find out there. Only this one is brought to you by Creative, a company well-known for its audio I/O solutions (like the Sound Blaster products),
It features a built-in mic preamp and Hi-Z switch and supplies up to 24-bit / 96 kHz audio. You also get zero-latency direct monitoring via the headphone ports on the front.
It is available via Creative’s website for an MSRP of $149.99, putting it in a well-priced position if it can go head-to-head well enough with brands like Focusrite and PreSonus (it would be interesting to know if it can handle the Shure SM7B by itself). You will also likely find it via additional retail options in the future as it continues to release further.
