While Fender Studio Pro 8 [Tape Op #173] is a continuation and rebrand of what was formerly PreSonus Studio One, Fender's new interface line takes select features of the PreSonus Quantum HD series [Tape Op #164] – mic pres with 75 dB of gain, custom drivers, and remote direct monitoring control – into the competitively priced Fender Quantum LT series. As I have zero experience with the previous Quantum line, these were all new interfaces for me to check out and use.
The main differences between the three USB-C interfaces are their analog I/O and power requirements. The LT 2 has 2 inputs and 2 outputs, the LT 4 has 4 inputs and 2 outputs, and the LT 16 has 16 inputs and 8 outputs. The LT 2 and LT 4 are computer bus-powered, whereas the LT 16 ships with an external power supply. The Quantums are made from a lovely, slightly textured metal and have a nice build quality. They feel substantial and, for lack of a better word, "professional," though they're certainly not heavy. Upon installing the Universal Control software and plugging in the LT 16, I was presented with a message stating that a firmware update was available, which downloaded and installed without issue and didn't require me to restart the interface. This was nice to see, as firmware updates for audio interfaces can sometimes be needlessly difficult.
The fader section of Universal Control is extremely clear and easy to use. Handling monitoring levels, effects loops, etc. is all easy and intuitive. This isn't particularly powerful software – it's almost the complete antithesis of something like RME's TotalMix – but that's okay, as Universal Control clearly isn't trying to be that. It controls the interface and drivers and does it well.
The mic pres and converters could be described as sonically neutral – which, depending on what you want/expect out of a low-to-mid-level audio interface, is either a good or a bad thing. They're certainly not of poor quality, not even close, but they're not going to add any color to your signal path. I compared the LT 16 to my 4th Gen Focusrite Scarlett 18i20, and I wasn't able to detect any truly meaningful difference between the two in terms of sound character. They're transparent, not perfectly flat, and the noise floor is acceptably low. These are workmanlike interfaces, and they'll get the job done just fine. The LT line does not have any digital I/O, so if you need ADAT, S/PDIF, or MIDI routing in your rig, you'll have to upgrade to Fender's pricier and versatile Quantum HD line. I would have liked to see some integration with the Fender Studio Pro DAW, but maybe that can happen in future software and firmware updates.
If you're looking for an affordable interface and don't need any digital I/O, the Quantum LT line is a solid option. If you're just getting started with recording, spec'ing a setup for a client new to tracking, or just need a second rig in your office, you should check out the affordable Quantum LT line.