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New iMac, Why "Audio Input" is missing?

Excited about the new iMac. But I don't understand why Apple has removed the "AUDIO INPUT" from the design. Cause I use it for recording and editing. Is there any other way to have an Audio Input?

iMac

Posted on Oct 23, 2012 11:42 AM

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Posted on Oct 23, 2012 11:46 AM

You will need to confirm this, but I believe Apple uses a dual port meaning it does either input or output. If that's not the case there are numerous USB devices that will provide the ability to input sound.

47 replies

Oct 24, 2012 5:47 AM in response to Renie Ak

If you must buy the new iMac (or any of the other models currently shipping without audio in facilities), the Griffin iMic has long been a useful addition for this purpose.

http://store.griffintechnology.com/desktop/imic


It still grates that one should have to rely on third-party hardware for premium priced computers, though.


Not that I should care, really. My 2009 iMac 24" will see me to the grave.

Feb 4, 2013 9:06 AM in response to Renie Ak

As a Film and Radio teacher/producer, I also am disappointed in Apple’s decision to discontinue the “AUDIO IN” port. This was a great way to (easily and quickly) hook up a Digital/Analogue audio mixer to our Mac’s to run guitars, phantom powered mics and so on with no latency problems. It amazes me how companies constantly whittle down cool options that we all love and expect us to keep buying the product.

I was going to buy 5 new imac desktops for class, but this issue, and the loss of a fire-wire port, audio in and DVD/CD burner drive bugged me so much I have since decided to not purchase them. Also, I was truly amazed at myself for getting so angry over it!


After cooling off over the weekend, I found that Apple still has this (audio in) port and the faster fire-wire port in the (imac-Mini) Not sure I want to the buy the mini’s, but I am still thinking about it, or I probably will just stay with my 2011 models (with) the audio in port, firewire port and DVD/CD burner drive. Please note I am also familiar with USB mixers and computer interface devices, but I really do not want to spend more money that I don’t have on new outboard USB mixers when I have the tools to do the job now.

Feb 16, 2013 10:09 AM in response to Renie Ak

I know about the numerous USB devices--Onkyo, Behringer, Griffin--but it's more clutter on crowded desktops. I always did better with a line-direct from my Onkyo regular receiver (not USB) to the audio in port on my previous Mac. It was perfect for recording vinyl, cassettes, and my own audio files. Moreover, a simple patch betwen the headphone and "In" audio port enabled sure and unfailing recording of any audio from the computer (the $90 Roxio Toast program kept failing on me for this purposes.)

Feb 16, 2013 10:15 AM in response to noondaywitch

There are lots of USB audio interfaces, some no more expensive and rated higher than the Griffin. But my previous iMac worked perfectly with running a straight audio cable from my regular Onkyo (no USB) to that audio input. And a patch cord between that port and the headphones out assured capture of any audio from the computer.


this is a step backwards. More expense in terms of burns, interfaces, and more clutter--and Apple advertiises all of the space that's saved!

New iMac, Why "Audio Input" is missing?

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