PreSonus
PreSonus AUS-STUDIO-1824C-COMBO-STD Studio 1824c Audio Interface
★★★★★
USB-C48Vphantom powerXLR
Eight XMAX preamps, 18 simultaneous inputs, and 192 kHz headroom — the Studio 1824c is the workhorse interface for serious tracking sessions.
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Overview
Key Features
WORLD CLASS RECORDING SOFTWARE: The Studio 1824c audio interface features USB-C computer connectivity and records up to 18 simultaneous inputs, including two combo mic and switchable line/instrument inputs and six mic/line inputs, all with XMAX mic preamps and +48V phantom power. Digital inputs include eight channels of ADAT Optical I/O (four channels at 96 kHz) and stereo S/PDIF I/O.
SUPERIOR SOUND: The Studio 1824c audio interface operates at up to 192 kHz for ultra-high-definition mixing and recording. High-quality converters on every input and output and PreSonus' professional-grade XMAX mic preamps deliver incredibly high headroom, deep lows, smooth highs, and a rich overall sound.
PERFECT COMPANION: With ample connectivity, onboard monitor mixing, pristine mic preamps, and up to a 192 kHz sample rate, the Studio 1824c audio interface will give you the ultra-high-definition sound and versatile connectivity you need to make state-of-the-art recordings.
DESIGNED FOR PRODUCERS WHO NEED MORE: In addition to the main L/R outputs, you get eight DC-coupled line-level outputs that can send control voltages. You also get two headphone outputs. A built-in MIDI interface enables connection to a keyboard, sound module, or control surface.
EVERYTHING YOU NEED IN ONE BOX: Adding value to your purchase, Austin Bazaar bundles your instrument with necessary accessories. Save yourself the hassle and save some money while you're at it. An XLR cable is included so you can plug in right away. The USB-C adapter allows you to connect to your device with ease. An Austin Bazaar polishing cloth is included so you can keep your new instrument in mint condition.
Specifications
Connectivity
USB-C
Simultaneous Inputs
Up to 18
Mic/Line/Instrument Inputs
2 combo (switchable)
Mic/Line Inputs
6
Mic Preamps
XMAX
Phantom Power
+48V
ADAT Optical I/O
8 channels (4 channels at 96 kHz)
S/PDIF I/O
Stereo
Max Sample Rate
192 kHz
Line-Level Outputs
8 DC-coupled
Headphone Outputs
2
MIDI Interface
Built-in
Pros & Cons
👍 Pros
- The XMAX Class A preamps deliver open, detailed transient response with a low noise floor that stays clean even at 60–70% gain on dynamic microphones.
- 192 kHz operation on analog I/O means you're capturing the full top-end air of acoustic instruments without converter aliasing coloring the high shelf.
- Eight ADAT expansion channels let you add a quality mic pre rack (like an ADA8200) and scale to a full tracking session without replacing the interface.
- DC-coupled line outputs make this a genuine hybrid studio hub — CV routing to modular gear works reliably without additional converters.
- Two independent headphone outputs with individual level controls allow the engineer and performer to monitor simultaneously without a separate headphone amp.
👎 Cons
- At 96 kHz and above, ADAT channel count halves to four, which limits high-sample-rate tracking sessions that rely on outboard preamp expansion.
- The USB-C connection, while modern, means older studio computers may need an adapter or hub — worth confirming cable/port compatibility before the session.
- No built-in DSP effects or onboard monitoring FX chain — zero-latency monitoring is dry, which is a limitation for vocalists who track better with reverb in their cans.
- The unit's onboard monitor mixing is functional but basic compared to interfaces with dedicated mixing software like Focusrite's Control or UA's Console.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much gain do the XMAX preamps provide, and will they handle quiet ribbon mics or dynamic mics in treated rooms?
The XMAX Class A preamps are rated for high headroom with low noise — they handle dynamic mics like the SM7B without a cloudlifter for most sources, though extremely quiet ribbons in a dead room may push the gain stage. For broadcast-style dynamics, you'll want to sit around 60–70% gain to keep the noise floor clean.
Does the Studio 1824c require phantom power to be applied globally, or can it be switched per-channel?
Phantom power (+48V) is applied per-channel on this interface, which matters when you're running a ribbon and a condenser on adjacent inputs. Always confirm phantom is off before patching a ribbon — the 1824c gives you that control, which is critical for a mixed-mic signal chain.
What sample rates are supported, and does the ADAT expansion count change at 96 kHz?
The interface supports up to 192 kHz on analog I/O. ADAT Optical delivers eight channels at 44.1/48 kHz but drops to four channels at 96 kHz (S/MUX protocol). If you're tracking at 96 kHz with outboard gear over ADAT, plan your I/O count accordingly.
How does the Studio 1824c integrate with DAWs other than Studio One?
It shows up as a standard USB audio class-compliant device and works with Logic Pro, Pro Tools, Reaper, Cubase, and Ableton. Drivers are available for both macOS and Windows. The included Studio One Artist license is a bonus, not a lock-in.
Can the eight line outputs send CV signals for modular synthesis integration?
Yes — the eight DC-coupled line-level outputs can transmit control voltages, making the 1824c a legitimate hub for hybrid studio setups that pair DAW-based production with Eurorack modular gear.
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