EVO 4 Audio Interface Review
Introduction
For those who use recording tools every day, it’s easy to forget just how overwhelming even the simplest studio setup can be for beginners. Something as basic as recording a microphone signal while sending a monitoring signal back to the performer—which is second nature to experienced engineers—can be full of challenges for those just starting out.
You have to set the input gain, manage internal connections, and figure out the ins and outs of input monitoring—and all of this comes before you’ve even started recording your ideas. Let’s be honest: if your main focus is making music, this setup process can feel like a chore, no matter how much you know.
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Many producers have tried to address this challenge by creating audio interfaces that hide the technical complexities of the recording process, allowing users to focus on their creativity instead. In recent years, UK studio equipment manufacturer Audient has released a range of products that are simple to use, yet still uphold the company’s well-earned reputation for excellent audio quality and attention to detail.
The latest in this line, under Audient’s sub-brand EVO, is the EVO 4 and EVO 8 audio interfaces. These offer two-in/two-out and four-in/four-out configurations, respectively. Here, we’re taking a closer look at the EVO 4.
Specifications
The Evo 4 is a 2-in/2-out audio interface with left and right outputs for connecting your monitors via ¼-inch jacks. When it comes to mixing, you have a standard ¼-inch jack output for headphones, as well as a ¼-inch jack input for recording instruments.
The unit connects to your computer via USB. For those with newer Apple computers, it can be a bit frustrating that the included cable is USB-C to USB-A, which means you might need an adapter (or a different cable). However, this isn’t really Audient’s fault.
All new Evo preamps are built into the unit, offering a 58dB gain range, which puts it in line with other budget interfaces on the market.
The controls themselves are very straightforward and easy to use—if you’ve owned an audio interface before, you’ll have no trouble here. On the top, surrounding the volume dial, you’ll find options for phantom power, input select (1 & 2), and buttons to switch between monitor mix and output volume.
Conveniently, whichever button you select lights up, with an eye-catching red light for phantom power. This helps prevent those accidental moments of sending 48v to a dynamic mic.
One of the most impressive features of the Evo 4 is the auto gain function, which automatically sets your input gain level for you—so you don’t even have to touch a gain dial.
Smart Gain Option
Audient’s new Smart Gain feature makes setting the right input gain simple. Just press the big green Smart Gain button, select the channel you want to adjust, then press the Smart Gain button again. Play or sing at the loudest level you plan to record, and let the Evo 4 handle the rest. The whole process takes about 6 seconds.
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Build Quality Evo 4
Unlike Audient’s iD range of interfaces, the Evo 4 is made from a fairly tactile plastic. It feels rugged enough to be tossed in your recording bag and survive just fine. All the buttons are nicely recessed, and the main control knob feels solid and stable.
The chassis does feel a little “squeezy” in some spots, but if using plastic keeps the price down, I’ll happily take that over sacrificing audio quality. Honestly, it’s not a huge issue, but it’s not quite up to the standard of the iD range. Then again, the iD line is more expensive, so you do get what you pay for.
Conclusion
Overall, we’re genuinely impressed with the Evo 4. Audient set out to design an easy-to-use interface and, in the process, created an incredible-sounding product with some truly unique features.
Currently retailing for around $120, the unit is a bit pricier than other entry-level interfaces, but in our opinion, the extra cost is worth it—even if you’re just starting out.
We’d suggest that beginners should get familiar with gain staging, as it’s an essential part of recording. However, we enjoyed this feature both for its functionality and for the ability to check our microphone levels without having to awkwardly reach for a gain dial!
We’re confident the Evo 4 will become a staple in many people’s home studio setups. Hot on its heels is the Evo 8, so if you need more inputs for recording, you can upgrade for only about $60 more. The Evo 8 is expected to ship in June 2020.
