Avid Pro Tools Carbon
DSP Audio Interface for Pro Tools
- 25 x 34 DSP audio interface
- Perfectly matched to Avid's Pro Tools Ultimate software
- Channel-assignable DSP mode for low-latency monitoring for HDX-compatible plug-ins enables virtually latency-free effects in recording situations or to reduce the load on the computer CPU
- Supports stereo and multi-channel monitoring in 5.1 plus stereo, 7.1 plus stereo as well as 5.1.4 and 7.1.2 for Dolby Atmos
- Expandable with up to two Carbon Pre (Art. 553853) for configurations with max. 24 inputs and outputs in continuous 32 bit / 192 kHz resolution
- 8 HDX DSP processors (2.8 GHz)
- Audio resolution 32-bit/192kHz
- Dimensions: 19" / 1 U
- Included: Power cable, Ethernet cable, rack screws, rubber feet
- Incl. Pro Tools Ultimate software perpetual licence with 12-month upgrade and support plan and comprehensive software package (download)
- System requirements: Pro Tools 2020.11, MacOS Catalina 10.15.6 or later, Ethernet connection or adapter from Thunderbolt to Ethernet
Inputs:
- 8 Combo inputs (XLR/jack balanced) with Variable Z (input 5-8).
- 8 Line inputs (25-pin D-sub balanced)
- 2 Variable Z instrument inputs on the front (6.3 mm jack unbalanced)
Outputs:
- 8 Line outputs (25-pin D-sub balanced)
- 2 Monitor outputs (6.3 mm jack balanced), dynamic range: 120 dB (A-weighted), THD+N: -110 dB (0.0003%), frequency range: 20 - 20,000 Hz, ±0.1 dB
- 4 Headphone outputs on the front (6.3 mm jack), power: 200 mW at 32 ohms
- ADAT I/O: 16 channels @ 44.1 - 48 kHz, 8 channels @ 88.2 - 96 kHz, 4 channels @ 176.4 - 192 kHz
- Word clock input and output
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Available since December 2020
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Item number 506683
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Sales Unit 1 piece(s)
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Thunderbolt No
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USB 3 No
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Ethernet Yes
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Audio In-and Outputs Yes
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System Expansion No
Latency of less than a millisecond
The Pro Tools Carbon is a feature-rich audio interface built exclusively for seamless integration with Pro Tools on macOS, offering a refined and focused production experience. Powered by a hybrid engine with onboard DSP, it delivers impressively low latency during recording while smoothly handling real-time monitoring tasks. Plugin processing can be shifted away from the host system and managed directly by the DSP, reducing round-trip latency to under one millisecond regardless of setup. This approach removes the typical compromise between performance and responsiveness, making it possible to record through plugins even in demanding sessions. With its eight-core accelerator based on proven HDX DSP technology and full compatibility with AAX DSP plugins, the unit provides a reliable and efficient solution for modern workflows.
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Control centre for the studio
The Pro Tools Carbon connects to a computer via Ethernet or a compatible Thunderbolt adapter, using a proprietary AVB-based protocol to handle audio at resolutions of up to 32-bit/192kHz. It supports up to 25 inputs and 34 outputs simultaneously, providing eight built-in preamps, two of which double as instrument inputs, while four include impedance matching for more precise control over microphone character. Alongside ten line outputs, the unit features four independently addressable headphone outputs and a built-in talkback microphone, creating a comfortable setup for recording multiple performers. Digital expansion is equally flexible, with dual ADAT ports delivering up to 16 channels in both directions, making it a capable and well-rounded choice for demanding studio environments.
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Uncompromising quality
With its innovative HDX DSP acceleration concept and flexible connectivity, the Pro Tools Carbon is clearly positioned for high-end music production environments where reliability and precision matter. The overall sound quality benefits not only from its excellent preamps but also from carefully designed converters, enhanced by a jetPLL-based clock with double sampling rate for highly accurate performance. Its tight software integration allows it to slot naturally into the Pro Tools workflow without added complexity. Unlike many other interfaces, the Avid Pro Tools Carbon operates without the need for additional background software, keeping the setup streamlined and focused.
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About Avid
Avid is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of audio and video software as well as the related hardware. The first core product from the company, which was founded in the USA in 1987, was the Avid Media Composer, which, as software for non-linear video editing, was the first to digitalise film material and remains one of the industry standards to this day. Since the takeover of Digidesign in 1995, the DAW software Pro Tools, which is in wide use particularly in the USA, has also been part of the portfolio of the steadily growing group. As time went on, Avid took also over the further development of the products made by M-Audio, Pinnacle Systems, and Sibelius Software, among others.
Extensive software package
Pro Tools Carbon includes a licence for Pro Tools Ultimate along with a one-year support plan, offering a complete and ready-to-use production environment from the start. The software remains fully usable after the support period ends, although access to future updates is no longer included, keeping the workflow stable and predictable. Existing Pro Tools users have the flexibility to add a new single-user licence or simply renew their current plan, depending on their needs. Beyond the 118 plugins already included, the bundle also features a curated selection of third-party tools from respected developers, adding subtle but meaningful value. With effects from Brainworx, McDSP and Arturia, alongside virtual instruments from UVI and Native Instruments, the package feels both comprehensive and well thought-through.
