PreSonus Quantum Audio Interface | ES2 ES4 HD2 HD8 Review & Sound Quality Test
Вставка
- Опубліковано 1 лип 2024
- PreSonus Quantum Audio Interface ES2 ES4 HD2 HD8 Review & Sound Quality Test by Reid Stefan. The new 2024 Quantum interface lineup features improved A/D Converters, Mic Preamps, Software, Design and Features. These USB-C interfaces integrate perfectly with Studio One or any other DAW you like.
PreSonus Quantum ES2
PreSonus Quantum ES4
PreSonus Quantum HD2
PreSonus Quantum HD8
Learn More about PreSonus Quantum Audio Interfaces
www.presonus.com/quantum
0:00 Intro
0:29 ES2 Inputs & Outputs
1:02 ES4 Inputs & Outputs
1:33 HD2 Inputs & Outputs
2:37 HD8 Inputs & Outputs
3:42 Universal Control Software
5:40 Latency Free Headphone Mix
6:44 Connecting Analog Vocal Chains
7:09 Remote Control
7:32 Speaker Quality Test
8:19 A/D Converter Test
8:59 Headphone Test
9:17 Mic Preamp Vocal Test
10:11 Test Results
11:07 My Conclusions
💙 Thank you for your honest review of these new Quantum audio interfaces, Reid!! THE REALEST PUPPET IN THE GAME!
as a dedicated presonus studio inter face user i realy need a free upgrade
I would love to see the HD 4848.
New HD series for Dolby?
What a amazing review of the interface thx Reid!
Thanks for the useful video
“Beauty & The Boss” album out now 🔥
correction: "Beauty & The Boss", the best album of 2024 no questions asked, out now 🔥🔥🔥
🔥🔥🔥🔥
Thank you for sharing these information. The HD series look terrific.
Happy to share! They’re amazing and affordable products ❤
great review. did you get a chance to test the reamping? i’m a bit confused since it looks like the output impedance of the reamp ports is only 100 Ohms (which seems way less than most pedals expect)
I have the ES2, just received it a few days ago, very happy camper. I don't need much; it does the job well.
Wish you would have included a noise floor measurement for the ES2 & 4. With nothing plugged in, turn the gain to the max and measure the noise. Repeat for each channel. I think Presonus as had issues with this in the past in the low end interfaces. Nice to see that the ES series is now fully integrated with SO v6.6.1. Good video.
Good idea! 👍
Man, you’re the best
The difference between the converter of the ES vs the HD series are wild. The HD sounds huge, sounds greats actually. The ES is thiner.
exactly how I was going to describe it. HD just sounds fuller in all frequencies without being muddy and wider. I do wonder if that would translate in the final mix or just anything played through it.
Good review. The fact that I had to use my HD600 headphones to tell the differences (my monitor speakers didn't' really distinguish) says the ES ones are perhaps good enough for my amateur mixing and mastering of acoustic folk music.
I presently have the Presonus Studio24C and I`m looking to upgrade due to the odd time that more than two inputs are needed (I have a composite input made from this and my Zoom H6 at present) and also a higher gain on the headphones output would be good as the high impedance of my Sennheiser HD600 headphones means I have to crank them up. I also like the idea of comparing my monitors with a hifi I have to see how the final master sounds, without changing the overall Studio One output to the Mac headphone socket that is plugged into the HiFi amp.
Your video has perhaps helped me more than any other review in looking at the ES4, although in the real world my Studio24C isnt that bad....
Great Review, Presonus Rocks
Dimmable LED lights? Nice!
Can I connect use it with ADAT conection with my Apogee Symphony Desktop? Apogee is 24 bit and Quantum HD2 32 bit... Someone knows if it matters?
I just purchased the quantum ES 2 and it came with a six month subscription to Studio One + that I want to take advantage of until it runs out. I recently recently upgraded to Studio One 6 and imagine I will just go back to using that after the six months since I really don’t do the amount of work that warrants a monthly subscription. I am wondering if it’s a whole new installation or if it upgrades what I have now and then, when it runs out, downgrades back to my original version? 
So the ES 4 Is crushing Focusrite's 4i4?
Hi Stefan! Are you finally going to make the comparison video between BAE and VINTECH AUDIO? I'm eagerly awaiting it...
It’s coming soon! ❤
Amazing review. How would you assess the quality of the Headphone out? Would you say they are up to standard as modern day DACs? Asking cause I mix primarily on headphones
Yes the headphone outputs sound great. It’s on par with other “industry standard” 8 channel audio interfaces. However expensive dedicated DACs probably do conversion better especially when you’re spending over $5,000 on a device. Considering HD8 costs $999 it’s extremely close and worth the cost for anyone.
@@ReidStefanMusic Noted. Thanks for the reply!
These new interfaces seem really promising. But I wish we could get some more info on the instrument input. Things like noise floor, preamp clarity and latency are essential for us guitarists.
Really great review! the only one I found to actually answer many of my questions, I still have a few left though:
- How does the HD2 compare to the Audient iD14 mk2 or the iD24 as far as speakers and headphones sound quality?
- Is the HD2 bus powered? Can I connect just the usb-c cable without the additional power to drive 250 ohm headphones?
- Can I use the optical inputs to connect my TV (which has optical input) to play through the speakers connected to the interface?
- Is there any DSP built in to the interface? perhaps basic EQ?
- Would you recommend getting the HD2 just for sound quality? I have no need for many of the inputs, I just want to get a good sound out of my headphones and speakers
Thanks!
Are the guitar and the combo inputs of the HD2 independent? I want something to run stereo guitars and at least a microphone at the same time for my class. I was thinking on getting the EVO 16 but the HD2 really caught my attention, which one do u recommend? (Having in mind I need at least 3 independent inputs) Thanks beforehand :)
They are not independent. Connecting a guitar to input 1 overrides the mic input 1. Id recommend HD8 if you need both simultaneously
Coolest thing on the market id say right now for budget oreinted people. Im mind blown and buying... es or hd is where im lost at what i want i like look of es better for my desk space yet i love racks
Racks are where it’s at. Save your tabletop space for other stuff 👍
Auto gain is not working for me for some reason. Every time I turn it on its mutes the input (the mic) so I can't hear myself therefore auto gain doesn't pick it up. 🤦🏽
Any suggestions???
For what I understand the ES4 can manage the two outputs (four monitors) at the same time via Universal Control (A - A+B) and also I will get one headphone output and a second one for sending the master signal to a subwoofer I'm using just now. Am I right? Thanks for your help Stefan!
Yes you can send the same audio simultaneously through multiple outputs if you don’t use A/B mode
@@ReidStefanMusic Thank you so much
Love your channel, by the way ;-)
Hey Reid I have a question. If I were to get the Quantum HD but also considering getting a UAD Apollo, UAD Plugins aside do you think the Quantum HD is up there when it comes to the quality of the preamps and converters?
Yes PreSonus sound quality is up there with Apollo’s. Quantum HD costs much less because their software is way less fancy, plus quantum has no DSP chips, no dedicated headphone volume knobs, it uses plastic buttons instead of metal, lighter weight metal enclosure, also uses USB-c instead of Thunderbolt which costs less to manufacture.
@@ReidStefanMusic Thanks for the information! I'm going to get the hd2 this week 🔥
Hey there, got a question for you. Your the only one talking about the automatic recognition of line level. Doest that mean, if we plug all the input into a patchbay I can use external preamp only or can I still use the audio Interfave preamp through the line level "trim" with 48v. I know there is some precautions according to patchbay and phantom power, but this could be a dream setup for me.
You can’t apply 48v to line level inputs. Using the quarter inch inputs bypasses the quantum preamps and uses the converters only. Preamp gain knob becomes input trim when line level is detected and 48v option is not available until you connect mic level
@@ReidStefanMusic so it works like I thought. Could be great with the HD8 but not as good with the HD2 unfortunately. Still looking pretty good a an audio interface. Have a nice day
Do you know if you can daisy chain the HD series? I need 24 io to work with my mixer
You can connect 3 HD8 together.
wonder how the mic pres on the HD compare to the Clarrett+ line
Me to
So you can bypass the pres on all models and also turn phantom power on on a per channel basis on all models? 🙏🏻 thanks
Yes using quarter inch instead of XLR in the combo jack bypasses the preamps. 48v phantom power has an on/off switch on every combo jack channel
@@ReidStefanMusic thanks!
I guess there's place for a HD 4 (4 analog inputs, 2 headphone outputs) in the HD line ;)
can you low latency direct monitor with a full chain of any of your chosen plugins or just one plugin like the reverb example? this is whats keeping me from pulling the trigger.
Your interface has no impact on the amount math your computer needs to do to run your favorite plugins. Apollo is the only interface on the market that has built-in computer processors to run plugins of your choice outside of your DAW. Quantum is like every other interface where your direct monitoring is completely dry. You can see I added a reverb in the background of the dry signal to enhance my headphone mix
If these included a Fat Channel for the Universal Control they would be perfect for me.
with the aux usbc port, could i theoretically connect something like Steelseries Artic Nova Pro Wireless to use as headphones?
It’s an aux input to play music off your phone, not an output to connect wireless headphones
how do you rate de HD presonus against Universal audio apollo
PreSonus has Better mic preamps, similar quality conversion, but the PreSonus control software is way more basic than UA console
Wouldn't you notice latency from the effects you have in the DAW even though your mic input is latency free in Universal Control?
I only add reverb to my headphone mix. No other FX until after I’m done tracking
This on par with my Antelope Orion Studio? Conversion wise I mean
I have no experience with Antelope Orion but it’s definitely on par with the more expensive devices
I have a Titan. Love to hear your opinion on this conversion vs your Prism. I don’t think i can do better on conversion but I’m not a huge fan of the software mixer. Def miss Totalmix sometimes.
The software with Quantum is equally basic compared to the Titan app. They both offer only routing, volume, and mute control. Quantum does offer loopback and remote control which is not available in Titan. However It’s not close comparing $5,000 interface to $999 and expecting similar results in conversion. Apollo would be a closer comparison.
Right on Reid! Just curious. Lots of 32 bit converters hitting the market now. Appreciate it!
@@ReidStefanMusicI was wondering the same thing. Glad you answered it. I’ve been having the Titan for a week now and sound wise, it blows my Apollo X6 out the water.
You the one who put me on to the Titan. It’s your fault that I got one. 😂😂
Presonus sounds good with direct guitar recording.
They worked with fender to create some fire interface inputs 🔥
Hmmm, I wonder how the ES 2 and 4, even the HD 2 would work as a standalone audio interface with the MPC Key37 Standalone. The ES Series seems to be class compliant (w/out the use of an external power supply), however the HD 2 does look like it as well but with the need for a power supply.
Only HD2 and HD8 offer standalone mode with no computer required 👍
@@ReidStefanMusic Ah, okay! Thank you for that! I almost got the ES 2!
Where is direct monitoring knob? How would you suggest to do it smoothly without it? I was almost ready to buy it.. but I used to have this knob..
The direct monitoring volume is controlled using the on-screen mixer in the Universal Control app. It’s not a physical button or knob on the interface hardware
@@ReidStefanMusic I ordered this interface and wasn’t sure if I should go for M2 or SSL 2+… I hope this system will be stable and smooth on my late 2014 Mac mini i7 16GB…
Have you any experience arround it ?
Good! What are the latency figures of the hd2 and hd8?
Zero latency when you use the direct monitoring thru the app when you’re tracking vocals. This is written in the tech specs also I tested it during the software portion of this review
@@ReidStefanMusic man. We both know why I'm asking such questions and I know you are way too skilled not to be responding to what I asked for. It's okay. Thank you for your time. ❤️
@@AGVersace100if you’re referring to mastering latency from the loopback test the numbers are Approximately ~3ms at 96kHz with 32 sample buffer size
What's the round trip latency?
Approximately ~3ms at 96kHz with 32 sample buffer size in your DAW
@@ReidStefanMusic Thats rock solid
@@ReidStefanMusic its input and output letancy togethere>? in albeton it shows overall letancy 7.6 ms, so 3ms with this card? right
How does it handle latency from iZotope plugins active while in record?
Your computer still has to do the exact same amount of math running IZOTOPE plugins regardless of the brand of interface. I don’t think you’d find a tangible software latency improvement by switching hardware. Reducing software latency requires reducing plugins
@@ReidStefanMusicbingo
Cute cat.
Great review. It's really sad that they've adopted the one knob design though. I sometimes work in a studio where they have a one knob interface and it does my head in having to continually switch it between two separate input levels, monitoring and the headphone level. If someone's in the booth and they want their headphones louder, it's too easy to forget what the knob is set to and accidentally mess up your input level instead. Older interfaces had these knobs too. And it's not like they're making these devices anymore minimalistic like Apple removing the headphone jack. Because once they remove a knob, then they have to replace it with a switch. It makes no sense.
I agree one knob is less convenient. Headphone knobs would be nice. I find myself using the app more because of the lack of knobs
@@ReidStefanMusic Yes, that makes sense.
Ok time for the question everyone wants to know . Es2 or Scarlett gen 4 ??
That would make a great comparison 😊
Genuinely interested in that comparison.
Do HD2 and HD8 have the same DA converters?
Yes
So these are not ultra low latency like the previous generation?
Yes they are ultra low latency 🔥
Compared to the previous generation’s
@@gitpho is this because the new devices are USB 2.0 vs. previous Gen which is TB3?
Can you connect mac through aux to ipad?
No only mobile devices unfortunately it’s not an input for 2nd laptop
HD was goodddddd
I actually want to buy a new interface I’m choosing between RME UCX II or Presonus quantum HD8 which one would be better?
I have no experience with RME yet unfortunately!
RME no doubt
@@ReidStefanMusic which interface do you use?
@@alphasupreme7167 prism titan is in my 1st desk and HD8 replaced the Apollo x8 in my 2nd desk.
@@ReidStefanMusic the prism is so good thx for sharing
Do you have mastering services? I have mp3 that need to be mastered. Let me know how to contact you since you have no website for contacts.
Unfortunately no... I only work on my own projects and productions
@@ReidStefanMusic I understand. I always see you having lots of projects plus making those videos need a lot of time and hard work. It would be overwhelming to take other projects. I wish you helped us though for a price. 😁
@@boxoffisaif Reid isn't interested/doesn't have the time to master outside projects, I am available to assist!
No ADAT on the smaller units is a bummer
Is it better than 2i2 4th gen ? Just for vocals.
Yes i’d use this over my Focusrite 4th gen
Why ?
@@evieruth01 Scarlett = noise floor.
@@ReidStefanMusic what letancy roundrip you have with focusrite scarlet 4th gen> >?
Does it support usbc to usb3?
Yes
What kind of desk is that
Argosy Halo 🔥
Are these Dante enabled?
I havnt seen Dante mentioned anywhere in the documentation or specs so im guessing, no.
Quantum HD2 or RME UCX 2?
RME UCX2
There should be a Quantum HD 4! Why not @PreSonus ?
I’d love to see an HD4 🔥
When I saw HD8 first time I was thinking it was time to exchange my Studio 192 for it, then I realized that HD8 doesn't have dsp. I work with many singers and using reverb during recording is very important to make them happy.... Simply I don't understand it. It's a huge step back from Studio 192.
Is demonstrate how to have a latency free vocal chain with reverb at 5:40
I'm buying an HD. Not because I plan on replacing my RME 2010 babyface and 500 series analog setup., But because it literally comes with a 400-dollar perpetual license for Studio One Pro. Lol. My software comes with an interface :-) The Software is worth about 400 bucks. The interface...100.
the HD8 Sounds better more open clear sound in preamp and headphones and monitors
letancy roudrip please.. :)?
3 milliseconds
@@ReidStefanMusic same settings scarlet gen3? Please bro
2024 without DSP processor. ???why is it needed
Computers in 2024 have more than enough processing power for the audio interfaces to not need computer chips in them too. It’s smarter when brands invest their full production costs into the best possible converters & preamps instead of built in DSP. 2018 Apollo with DSP feels very outdated in 2024 compared to my 2018 prism titan with expensive converters and preamps but no DSP
Quantum HD2 has lowest RTL
No latency information in this review. This is an advert not a review.
There’s an entire section of this video about latency free monitoring 👍 Also Written in the The specs you’ll see the the direct monitoring is zero latency. These devices work standalone like a mixer even without any computer or DAW connected. My mastering loopback test yielded Approximately ~3ms at 96kHz with 32 sample buffer size
why do you folks do that!!!
Pardon @reidstefanmusic sorry for such a typical comments section language. Love your work by the way. No matter what. Keep up the good work.
@ampstudios easy there, comments sections are traditionally supposed to be spicy
If you serious about music get a universal audio or a carbon studio for ultimate sound quality…… thank me later
oh, look a gear snob.
is that trick you did with the reverb mix for headphone monitoring really zero latency? are you not hearing the reverb signal coming from the DAW, so not latency free? My specific use case would be with autotune, which I have had many complaints of latency with
Yes the reverb technically has latency from other plugins running, but in reality that wet latency is only adding to the reverbs pre-delay while you’re tracking. The dry vocal is always direct and latency free regardless of your DAW’s plugin count or buffer size when you use direct monitoring. The wet reverb signal can be late and you won’t even notice because dry sounds latency free
So you're testing an audio interface without checking its latency? You should possibly look for a different profession.
I checked the latency for vocal recording. It offers zero perceivable latency direct monitoring for a singer to track vocals, regardless of buffer size or plugin count in your DAW ✅
@@ReidStefanMusic Dude, that answer displays that you don't have much of a clue. RTL latency for software audio monitoring is an incredibly crucial aspect when shopping interfaces for many, many people.
It's not about the direct monitoring options, either. When I want to play through an amp sim, direct monitoring is of zero help. For that I need low latency and stable performance at low buffer sizes. Let alone, when doing proper latency tests, they typically also reveal potential recording offsets (something to still happen these days). Not mentioning any of that proves what I said: This is the wrong profession for you.
@@edjefferson9175 Are you talking about me or about the guy doing shabby audio equipment reviews with the help of a hand puppet?
looked at your account, why dont u have any reviews? or any youtube videos. you go inform the community since you know everything.
@@calv1846 What a stupid reply. Do I have to be a reviewer to say that a review of someone else isn't worth much?
Hi 😊 Can someone compare the new Presonus interfaces/preamps ES and HD series with Audient ID and UAD Apollo series? Thanks 🙏 @AudientWorld @UAudio @PreSonus