Audio Card (Under $1,000)

Jan 1, 2000 12:00 PM, the EM Staff

           
 

FRONTIER DESIGN DAKOTA

(Win; $649)

When we looked closely at the Frontier Design Dakota, we knew this was not your average audio card. Granted, it's not the only audio card that offers 16 channels of ADAT I/O switchable to stereo S/PDIF I/O, along with a host of MIDI and synchronization features. But what sets the Dakota apart is the quality of its design and its ability to play well with others. Its ASIO 2.0 drivers ensure solid performance under Cubase and other compatible applications, and it was one of the first cards to be fully compatible with NemeSys's popular GigaSampler. When you use the Dakota in conjunction with a multichannel A/D/A converter, such as Frontier Design's Tango24, it can become the centerpiece of a powerful desktop audio system, capable of handling nearly any production task.

All its signal-routing options are managed through the efficient Dakota control panel, and you'll have no problem switching output formats or reconfiguring the card's inputs on the fly. Of course, any custom configurations you create can be saved and recalled for later use. Windows NT drivers are expected early in 2000, and a Mac driver is also coming soon. The price is very reasonable, and did we mention that the Dakota sounds great?

If you're looking for a professional audio system for your Windows PC, head for the hills and try out the Dakota.