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ESI Amber i2 – USB Audio Interface for Musicians, Producers, Singers, and Songwriters, Dual XLR, Line & DI Inputs with MIDI I/O, Professional Software Included
ESI

ESI Amber i2

Bottom line: The ESI Amber i2: 192 kHz/24-bit recording and playback for pro-grade capture; main trade-off: only two inputs, so multi-mic drum or band tracking is limited.

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By , Founder & Editor-in-Chief · Listing data updated

Mike Perry — Hardware researcher since 2014. For retro PC hardware and period-correct parts, synthesises manufacturer documentation, community compatibility lists and marketplace listings rather than first-hand lab testing. Core beat: GPU performance across gaming, rendering, and local-LLM inference.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • ✓ 192 kHz/24-bit recording and playback for pro-grade capture
  • ✓ Dual XLR combo inputs handle mic, line, and DI sources
  • ✓ Bidirectional MIDI I/O connects keyboards and synths
  • ✓ ADM lets you blend input levels with DAW signal in hardware
  • ✓ USB-C bus powered with 2-year warranty and 24/7 support

Cons

  • ✗ Only two inputs, so multi-mic drum or band tracking is limited
  • ✗ No onboard DSP effects or reverb for monitoring
  • ✗ Bus power depends on USB-C; older USB-A rigs need an adapter
  • ✗ Small LCD offers limited on-device control and metering

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SpecPicks Verdict

SpecPicks scored ESI Amber i2 using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the audio & midi category. ESI's audio & midi lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.

Common buyer scenarios for audio & midi of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.

Key Features

  • REPRODUCE THE ORIGINAL SOUND: Supports 192 kHz/24-bit recording and playback, featuring dual XLR combo inputs and two balanced 1/4-inch TRS outputs, and bidirectional MIDI I/O—perfect for music production, podcasting, and pro recording wherever inspiration strikes.
  • FLEXIBLE MONITORING WITH ADM: ADM (Advanced Direct Monitoring) allows you to directly and independently control the level of all input signals on the hardware and blend them with DAW signals, enabling flawless recording.
  • MODERN, EYE-CATCHING DESIGN: Featuring a sleek look with a functional LCD display and an amber-colored volume knob that stands out against the sand-green main body.
  • VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY AND CONVENIENCE: The Amber i2 audio interface is compatible with all major operating systems and is powered via USB-C for easy setup, delivering reliable performance whether you’re recording guitar, vocals, or a full-range setup.
  • PEACE OF MIND GUARANTEED: Every ESI product comes with a comprehensive 2-year warranty, supported by our US- and Germany-based teams, available 24/7 to take care of all your after-sales needs.

Full Specifications

BrandESI
Unit Count1 Count
Audio InputXLR, Hi-Z, MIDI
ConnectivityUSB-C
Model NumberAmber i2
Item Type NameAudio Interface
Number of Items1
Compatible DevicesMac, Personal Computer, iPad, iPhone
Frequency Response96 KHz
Number of Channels2
Supported SoftwareAll major DAWs
Maximum Sample Rate192.01 KHz
Warranty Description2
Connectivity TechnologyUSB
Manufacturer Part NumberPCM0018391-000
Item Dimensions D x W x H5"D x 8.27"W x 1.65"H
MODERN, EYE-CATCHING DESIGNFeaturing a sleek look with a functional LCD display and an amber-colored volume knob that stands out against the sand-green main body.
Full listing titleESI Amber i2 – USB Audio Interface for Musicians, Producers, Singers, and Songwriters, Dual XLR, Line & DI Inputs with MIDI I/O, Professional Software Included

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ESI Amber i2 – USB Audio Interface for Musicians, Producers, Singers, and Songwriters, Dual XLR, Line & DI Inputs with MIDI I/O, Professional Software Included is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.

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ESI Amber i2 – USB Audio Interface for Musicians, Producers, Singers, and Songwriters, Dual XLR, Line & DI Inputs with MIDI I/O, Professional Software Included
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