Introduction

The ES-9 is a Eurorack 16-in/16-out USB audio interface, with DC-coupled inputs and outputs that can be used for both audio and CVs.

With its balanced 1/4" main outputs & headphone socket, it's the perfect one-stop solution for integrating a modular synth and a laptop/tablet, either in the studio or when playing out at a gig.

The ES-9's 14 analogue inputs allow simultaneous tracking or mixing of a large number of sound sources in your modular, while the 8 DC-coupled outputs are perfect for controlling the modular with Silent Way, Max/MSP, Ableton's CV Tools, Bitwig Studio or similar, or for sending audio out to the modular for processing.

For even more outputs (up to 48 more), the ES-9 can be expanded with the ES-5*. It also has a pair of S/PDIF sockets for connecting other digital audio gear.

The ES-9 also provides a pair of MIDI sockets (via a breakout).

* The ES-9 has a dedicated pair of audio channels for the ES-5. Unlike the ES-3 or ES-8, you don't lose audio outputs when using the ES-5. Please note that the ES-5 outputs are not audio outputs. Refer to the ES-5 page for more details.

Reviews

The ES-9 scored 9.0 in Future Music's review (issue 369). Read the full review here.

the ES-9 provides a whole lot of top quality interfacing. The robust module clears physical and mental clutter, allowing you to interact with your music the way you want to.

Specifications

The ES-9's specifications are as follows:

  • Panel width: 16HP
  • Module depth (including power cable): 50mm
  • Current draw: 451mA on the +12V rail, 133mA on the -12V rail (at 96kHz)
  • USB socket: Type C
  • Driver suport: class-compliant USB 2.0 (no driver required for macOS and iOS - Windows drivers provided for Windows 7, 8 & 10)
  • Channel count: 16 in, 16 out
  • Supported sample rates: 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz
  • Audio sample depth: 24 bit
  • Analogue outputs:
    • 8x 3.5mm TS jacks, DC-coupled, Maximum output voltage approximately ±10V
    • 2x 1/4" TRS balanced jacks, AC-coupled (main outs)
    • 1x 1/4" TRS stereo jack, DC-coupled (headphones)
  • Analogue inputs:
    • 14x 3.5mm TS jacks, DC-coupled, Input voltage range approximately ±10V
  • Digital I/O: 1x S/PDIF input (TOSlink), 1x S/PDIF output (TOSlink)
  • MIDI I/O: 1 input, 1 output (on breakout)
  • Expansion headers: 1 for ES-5, 1 for MIDI breakout
  • Panel controls: headphone volume
  • Internal mixer: 8x8 crosspoint mixer (can be used with no USB connection for standalone operation)

For more detail, please see the user manual.

What's in the box

  • ES-9 module
  • Power cable (16 way, 200mm, keyed)
  • Bag of 4 mounting screws (M3x6mm)

A USB cable is not included. You will need a USB C-to-USB C or USB A-to-USB C cable, depending on what you'll be connecting the ES-9 to.

Pricing & Availablity

The ES-9 is available now.

MSRP: UK £549 (inc VAT), US $635 (exclusive of sales tax), EU €532.99 (exclusive of VAT)

For purchasing links, please see where to buy.

Headphones image from here

We use cookies and other tracking technologies to improve your experience on this site. We also link to content on external websites which may also gather information about you when you visit them. This is all perfectly normal. You can find out more about cookies (including how to turn them off) here and you can read our Privacy Policy here.