Hands-on: IK Multimedia's iRig 2 guitar interface, iRig MIC Field, more

On Tuesday, AppleInsider went hands-on with iRig 2, the follow up to IK's popular guitar-to-mobile device interface that now includes input gain control, Android device support and a 1/4-inch output jack for connecting directly to an amp.

With iRig 2, users can hook up their electric guitar or bass to an iOS device or Mac for sound processing via IK's AmpliTube multiple-effects app and feed the output to a standard amp without reaching for a 1/4-inch adaptor. In addition, IK includes a physical switch for toggling between dual-mode operation settings: FX passes instrument input first to an iOS device for app processing, then out to an amp via 1/4-inch jack; and "THRU" sends a pure analog signal through to the amp, allowing a connected iOS device to act as a mobile recorder or tuner.

Another device on display at CES was the new iRig MIC Field, a studio quality digital field microphone designed for use in both video and audio projects. The iRig Field comes equipped with two cardioid electret condenser modules, an internal 24-bit analog/digital converter, high-definition preamp and a Lightning connector for hooking up iOS devices.

IK's iRig 2 will come in orange, red, white or black and sell for $39.99 when it launches later this quarter. The iRig MIC Field is available now for $89 from Amazon.com.

IK is also getting into the iPhone case game with a "music stand case" that boasts interoperability with the company's other accessories. The case is scheduled to debut in quarter one, though pricing is currently unavailable.

IK told AppleInsider that it expects to implement Lightning connectivity across its product line in the near future, but did not provide an estimate on availability. When that time does come, users will be able to take advantage of the iRig Power Bridge, which lets musicians power Lightning-connected iRig products via a standalone battery.

Finally, IK announced a new brand ambassador in hip-hop star Flo Rida, who will be representing the iLoud portable Bluetooth speaker and iRig Mic range of products. To mark the occasion, IK is introducing a gold Flo Rida-branded iRig Mic portable microphone.