Electro-Harmonix Effects Interface Hardware Plugin Pedal — A Mix Product of the Week

Here’s an interesting twist on the audio interface: The Effects Interface Hardware Plugin from Electro-Harmonix is a multi-purpose USB-C audio interface pedal intended for use in the studio or on stage. It bridges the gap between pedalboards and DAW plug-ins, making it easy to interface the two types of devices without need for additional external hardware.

The Effects Interface Hardware Plugin features three distinct modes of operation:

• Hardware Plugin Mode, whereby DAW tracks are routed through effects pedals without need for external level-matching or impedance-matching devices, effectively turning pedals into outboard gear;
• Pedalboard Mode, which enables a user to run their instrument into a DAW, through plug-ins, and back out, effectively turning the plug-ins into a pedal in real time. This mode enables the use of DAW plug-ins as part of a stage rig and employs a footswitch to engage or bypass the plug-ins;
• Audio Interface Mode, whereby the unit behaves like a traditional 2×2 USB-C audio interface. Applications include routing vocal or instrument tracks through analog effects pedals, routing an electric guitar, bass or synth through plug-ins hosted by a DAW, and of course, using the unit to record just about any audio source into a DAW.

The Effects Interface Hardware Plugin works with all popular DAWs and runs under Windows or MacOS.

When the plug-in is inserted on a track, the UI (which mirrors the appearance of the hardware) provides controls for input, output, and mix, as well as on/off. Pedalboard Mode operates by loading two instances of the plug-in into one DAW channel strip, one functioning as the input and the other as the output. Any plug-ins inserted in the slots between the input and output route through the Effects Interface Hardware Plugin in real time, allowing a performer to use amp simulation plug-ins as part of their live rig by sending the signal to the pedalboard output on the interface.

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The top panel of the Effects Interface features input and output faders, LED metering for the two channels, and a footswitch with status LED. The rear panel provides left and right audio I/O, a headphone jack, and a DC input jack for standalone operation (9VDC @ 125 mA/center negative, adapter included). Dimensions are 5.75 x 4.5 x 2.25 (inches).

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Input impedance is stated as 2MΩ, and output impedance is 330Ω. The Effects Interface Hardware Plugin supports sample rates of 44.1, 48, 88.2 and 96 kHz and is available at a street price of $359.