Why the Audient iD14 MKII Still Dominates in 2025!

Summary

In this review of the Audient ID 14 Mark 2, the creator reflects on their previous experience with the ID 4 Mark 2 and the anticipation for this new release. The review covers the solid build quality, innovative features like the customizable ID button, and professional-grade audio performance, with a focus on its dynamic range and clarity. Software features like the ID Mixer application, loopback for streamers, and a bundled Cubase LE license are also highlighted. While the ID 14 Mark 2 impresses, the reviewer suggests adding features like Auto Gain and separate headphone volume controls in future models.

Takeaways

• 😀 The review is about the Audient ID 14 Mark 2 audio interface, which builds on the previous ID 4 Mark 2 with upgraded features.
• 😀 The build quality is praised for being solid, with a full metal body that feels professional and high-end when held.
• 😀 The interface has multiple control knobs for input volume and an ID button that can be customized for different features like mute or scroll control in applications.
• 😀 The front panel includes a headphone jack with volume control and a JFET input, while the back panel offers two mic preamps, balanced outputs, and an optical input for expandability.
• 😀 The ID 14 Mark 2 delivers studio-grade audio performance with clear, dynamic sound, supporting 24-bit depth and sample rates up to 96 kHz.
• 😀 The interface offers a high dynamic range of 120 dB in analog-to-digital conversion and 126 dB in digital-to-analog conversion, ensuring clear and detailed audio.
• 😀 The ID mixer software offers innovative features for routing, monitoring, and controlling volume, as well as the addition of a loopback feature for streamers and podcasters.
• 😀 A bundled software package includes the ARC software suite, plugins, and a Cubase LE license, along with a 3-year warranty for peace of mind.
• 😀 Some desired features are missing, such as an auto-gain function, separate volume control for both headphone outputs, and input level indicators.
• 😀 The reviewer praises the audio interface for its analog warmth, which adds richness and depth to recordings, especially for vocals and instruments like guitars.
• 😀 Overall, the ID 14 Mark 2 is a powerful, professional-grade audio interface that offers reliability, high-quality sound, and innovative features, though some improvements could be made in future models.

Q & A

What are the key features of the Audient ID14 Mark 2 audio interface?

The Audient ID14 Mark 2 features a solid metal build, dual input knobs, a volume control knob, level indicators, and a customizable ID button for adjusting application parameters. It also includes two headphone outputs, two high-quality microphone preamps, balanced outputs, an optical input for ADAT expandability, and a USB Type-C port for easy connection to PCs and laptops.

What is the unique feature of the ID button on the Audient ID14 Mark 2?

The ID button on the Audient ID14 Mark 2 is customizable and allows users to scroll through parameters in their application, such as adjusting plugin settings or navigating through EQ parameters. This feature is not commonly found in other audio interfaces.

How does the build quality of the Audient ID14 Mark 2 compare to other audio interfaces?

The Audient ID14 Mark 2 has a full metal build that offers a professional and durable feel, both visually and in hand. It feels solid, signaling high-quality audio equipment, which sets it apart from many other audio interfaces in terms of robustness.

What are the audio specifications of the ID14 Mark 2?

The ID14 Mark 2 offers 24-bit depth, a sample rate up to 96 kHz, and a dynamic range of 120 dB for analog-to-digital conversion and 126 dB for digital-to-analog conversion. These specifications contribute to its ability to handle high-quality audio with excellent clarity and detail.

How does the Audient ID14 Mark 2 perform in terms of audio warmth?

The Audient ID14 Mark 2 adds an analog character to the sound, introducing a slight warmth that enhances both the clarity and richness of recordings, particularly vocals and instruments like guitars. This warmth is a standout feature that differentiates it from cheaper audio interfaces.

What software is bundled with the Audient ID14 Mark 2?

The Audient ID14 Mark 2 comes bundled with the ID Mixer application, which allows users to easily control routing, monitoring, and volume adjustments. Additionally, it includes a bundle of software plugins and a Cubase LE license, making it an attractive option for both live streamers and podcasters.

What features are missing in the Audient ID14 Mark 2 that some users might expect?

The ID14 Mark 2 lacks an auto-gain feature, which was first introduced by Audient in their Evo series. It also does not allow separate volume control for the two headphone outputs and does not feature input level indicators, which could enhance usability.

What is the significance of the microphone preamps in the ID14 Mark 2?

The ID14 Mark 2 is equipped with two Class A microphone preamps, which provide studio-grade audio quality. These preamps are also used in high-end mixing consoles, making the ID14 Mark 2 capable of delivering exceptional audio clarity and performance, particularly for professional-level recordings.

Why is the Audient ID14 Mark 2 considered a great option for professionals?

The ID14 Mark 2 is considered ideal for professionals due to its excellent audio quality, sturdy build, and studio-grade features such as high-quality preamps, a wide dynamic range, and customizable controls. It offers long-term reliability and a warm analog character in recordings, making it a solid choice for serious audio work.

How does the Audient ID14 Mark 2 compare to other audio interfaces in terms of price and performance?

While some minor features like auto-gain and separate headphone volume control are missing, the Audient ID14 Mark 2 still offers high performance and professional-grade sound quality at a competitive price. It provides excellent value for those looking for an affordable yet reliable audio interface with studio-grade features.