2008 NAMM Show: Alesis introduced a really interesting device at NAMM – the MultiPort – a pro-grade USB computer audio interface with playback, control, and the ability to record directly to your iPod.

If you have your computer with you, you an use it as a audio interface and basic DAW controller.  If not, drop your iPod in and record to it instead. Wicked!

MultiPort features include:

• Record directly to iPod (Classic or 5th generation) and iPod nano (2nd or 3rd generation)
• Record directly to computer via USB
• Works with all docking iPod models when used through iTunes
• Playback from iPod while recording at the same time
• Mic/Line inputs for crystal-clear recording of any source
• Level meters for easy-to-read level monitoring

Unfortunately, Alesis didn’t announce a price.

“Until MultiPort, there hasn’t been anything that delivers pro-grade inputs and a USB audio interface in a single, compact desktop design for iPod.” says Alesis Product Manager Jim Norman.

MultiPort makes direct-to-iPod or direct-to-computer recording possible without a tangled mess of wires and confusing software. Simply plug a microphone or musical instrument into MultiPort, then connect MultiPort to a computer with a single USB cable and the rest is easy. MultiPort also supports Windows UPnP and Apple Core Audio, making it compatible with virtually any audio software available for either platform.

MultiPort also has industrial-grade, balanced inputs, 1/4″ stereo outputs, and phantom power for easy use with professional or consumer microphones. All of these features packed into a compact, functional form-factor make MultiPort the perfect iPod companion from the control room to the boardroom.

Alesis MultiPort will be available Q2 – 2008 from musical instrument retailers.