The US144MKII starts with two great-quality XLR microphone preamps with phantom power for condenser microphones. There's also a pair of balanced line inputs and a guitar-level in for direct recording of electric guitar or bass. A pair of S/PDIF digital inputs and outputs is also included, for a total of four inputs and outputs at up to 96kHz/24-bit audio quality. The US-144mkII connects to Mac or Windows computers using USB 2.0, and the unit is powered over the USB cable. MIDI input and output jacks allow connection of synths and drum machines. Separate controls for line and headphone out means you don't need to switch off monitors to work with headphones. The US-144mkII includes a copy of Cubase LE4 recording software to get you started.