Intellijel Designs Inc. Audio I/O 3U (2023 edition)

Intellijel Audio I/O 3U (2023 edition) connects a modular system to the balanced +4 dBu line world. Two paths each way on 1/4-inch TRS jacks, four six-stage VU meters and switchable output levels — all in 10 HP.

Modular level is not line level

Eurorack runs at around 10 Vpp while an interface or processor input expects +4 dBu. Patching straight across ends in clipping on one side or noise on the other. This module translates levels both ways: the input path offers up to 20 dB of gain for consumer-level signals, the output steps modular level down to +4 dBu with up to 6 dB of headroom on top.

You see where the signal is before you hear a problem

Four analogue VU meters show both inputs and both outputs at once, so clipping appears on the panel rather than later on a track in the DAW. Rear CHAIN IN and CHAIN OUT connectors tie the module to the Mixup 3U, Outs 3U, Stereo Mix 1U, XY IO 1U and Headphones v2 1U without using front-panel jacks.

KEY FEATURES

• 2 input and 2 output paths, balanced 1/4-inch TRS
• Up to 20 dB of input gain for low-level signals
• Output level: -10 dBV, +4 dBu or modular, with switchable ±6 dB boost
• 4 six-stage analogue VU meters
• TRS jacks moved to the top of the panel in the 2023 edition
• CHAIN IN and CHAIN OUT connectors for linking Intellijel modules

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Width: 10 HP
• Depth: 39 mm
• Power draw: +12 V — 75 mA, -12 V — 70 mA
• Inputs: 2 x balanced 1/4-inch TRS
• Outputs: 2 x balanced 1/4-inch TRS
• Expansion: CHAIN IN and CHAIN OUT, 3-pin