Sonuus i2M

I got this for my brother, so these are his thoughts on the device:

"I got the i2M to explore the world of synthesizers with my guitar. I'm a lousy keyboard player, could not afford a proper guitar synth so I decided to give this little midi buddy a try.

The thing worked right out of box on my Mac with both Garage Band and Logic 9. However, it certainly helps to a) download the software (free), b) download the latest firmware from the Sonuus website.

i2M is monophonic so don't expect to play chords. However, you can 'multiply' the tone using the Sonuus utility and create octave or key-based harmonies.

Depending on the setting, the i2M supports string bends, however with that feature disabled (in the chromatic mode), the tracking improves significantly.

Tracking accuracy depends on several things:
a) your playing style - the cleaner you play, the better tracking you get
b) volume of your guitar / sensitivity settings on i2m (essentially, make sure your guitar is not set to 11).
c) synth sound/setting - fast attack sounds work better for shredding. In other words, french horn is not an ideal sound if you want to play van Halen's Eruption.

The great thing is that i2M works both as a midi converter AND audio interface. At the same time. So yes, you CAN play that great distorted guitar solo with the sound of a Hammond. Or anything you like.

I found this very useful when traveling - essentially, you only need this little thing (chewing-gum sized) and your laptop to fully use whatever software instruments and guitar emulators you have installed.

If you're a guitarist and/or songwriter and want to record guitar and lay basic tracks for bass and synths wherever you are, i2M can prove extremely useful and versatile.

Sure, it's only monophonic but you still end up with a midi track that you can use and process as any other midi."

This is the test my brother wrote for a Czech music mag Muzikus:
http://www.muzikus.cz/pro-muzikanty-testy/Sonuus-i2M-musicport-MIDI-prevodnik-a-vysokoimpedancni-audio-USB-rozhrani~06~brezen~2014/

This simple to use plug n' go midi converter, is an excellent addition in my home studio.

Being USB powered, I can simply plug it into my computer, and when turning on my DAW, (Apples's Garageband), it shows up instantly to verify the connection.

It appears to work well with a large majority of midi sounds. It is of course monophonic and not polyphonic, but that said, if you are looking to use DAW midi solo instruments, then this inexpensive way of linking your instrument direct to your computer, without all the fuss of additional pick ups and pedals, is the ideal.

The quality of the product is excellent, and is extremely easy to use.
It has added features that allow both bass, and guitar/instrument with pickup, to be easily switched. There is also a switching option for portamento or fixed scale, so note-bending on a guitar still functions, or pianos with fixed notation will respond accordingly when switched.

Tracking is quick and accurate, despite the size of the product it functions well.

Glitches may appear when recording, usually caused by finger pressure changes when, in this case, pressing down a string, or releasing it.

Like all gadgets that are new, there will be a time of adjustment, to get the best from it!

I bought this, because I have a small studio and didn't want any more pedals on the floor. In fact if you have sufficient USB ports, you can leave it plugged in and running. (Manufactures quote when enquiring!)
I also only needed a monophonic converter for midi, to use for solo instruments!

For me it is ideal, simple to setup, works with my guitar/mic, takes up zero space, and easy to use.

I would certainly recommend this addition to anybody that wants to broaden the use of their Midi instruments onboard their favourite DAW!

Finally with such a simple item, there are really no pros and cons as such. You plug it in and it works, although for those using keyboards the added benefit will be onboard keyboard portamento and other switching options that one does not have on guitar.

5 Stars Overall: as it fits my requirements perfectly.
4 Stars Handling: not all instruments will be triggered equally, but then I am aware I'm inputting a guitar, not a keyboard.
5 Stars Features: The features are perfectly acceptable for its size.
5 Stars Quality: Sturdy and appears well made!