The PreSonus Quantum ES2 is a desktop audio interface with an integrated monitor controller. It features two inputs and two outputs on the back, as well as MIDI connections, and in addition to an instrument input and headphone output, the front panel offers convenient access to the most important parameters for successful recording. More extensive settings can be made either via a computer or on a mobile device using the PreSonus Universal Control app. The Quantum HD2's Auto Gain function means there is no need for any levelling before recording a take, and these technical options are rounded off with a loopback function and PreSonus MAX-HD technology, which ensures transparency and precision over a wide frequency range and up to +75dB of gain. The whole setup allows musicians to make intuitive yet high-quality recordings.
The rear panel of the PreSonus Quantum ES2 is equipped with two mic/line inputs in XLR/jack combo format as well as two jack outputs, thus providing maximum flexibility. This doesn't just enable the connection of microphones: Line-level signals can also be received via the mic jacks, for example from keyboards or digital pianos. To the left are two connections for studio monitors, and MIDI data can be transmitted via the 3.5mm mini jacks. The integrated preamps can process signals in a quality of up to 192kHz and 24 bit, with a dynamic range of 117dB(A). There is an input on the front panel suitable for connecting an electric guitar, which is a high-impedance signal source for any audio interface: This port was developed as part of a collaboration with renowned manufacturer Fender, so the sound quality is outstanding.
The PreSonus Quantum ES2 was designed for musicians and content creators who want to make high-quality recordings from up to three signal sources at the same time. Success is virtually guaranteed because the device can be used so intuitively – the Auto Gain function in particular helps make spontaneous recordings a reality. These options can also be expanded by including digital inputs and outputs via the rear panel. If phantom power is activated on the front panel, condenser microphones can be used for more precise recordings, while low latency during recordings is a given thanks to the drivers specially developed by PreSonus – this is particularly useful for live recordings. Streamers will love the loopback function, which allows them to easily record their monitor mix via virtual channels, and for the most demanding recordings, special settings can be input via the Universal Control app to perfectly customise every aspect.
Presonus is a US company founded in 1995 by Jim Odom and Brian Smith in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The firm designs hardware and software at both professional and more affordable levels for musicians and producers. Presonus first made a splash in the mid-1990s with the DCP8, an eight-channel analogue compressor/limiter/gate with fader and mute automation that could be digitally controlled by MIDI. In the early 2000s followed a series of microphone amplifiers and the first audio interfaces for the then-emerging home studio scene. Today, the company's product range includes audio interfaces, microphone preamps, digital mixing consoles, and studio monitors as well as the established DAW software Studio One.
The manufacturer's Universal Control app can be installed on all computers and mobile devices, offering flexibility when recording while maintaining perfect levels in a wide variety of scenarios. Among other things, the app can be used to control the gain of the preamps and the phantom power for the connected condenser microphones. The bespoke modern preamps use digitally controlled analogue technology and ensure low-noise recording. A six-month licence for the PreSonus Studio One+ DAW is included in the purchase price, as well as access to the One Professional Edition and other add-ons, so users can start producing content straight away. For monitoring in that ideal sweet spot, two studio monitor pairs (sold separately) can be set up at an angle of 30° to each other.