ESI Audiotechnik - GIGAPORT eX

With the GIGAPORT eX, ESI Audiotechnik offers an audio interface that clearly distinguishes itself from recording-oriented models. The aim here is not to multiply inputs, but to provide a compact, efficient solution for playing back and distributing audio signals over several independent channels. This approach makes it a particularly relevant tool for digital DJs, multimedia installations, picture sound or surround systems.

The interface provides eight separate analogue outputs on RCA connectors, making it possible to manage up to four separate stereo streams or a complete 7.1 surround configuration. Each output features digital-to-analogue conversion at up to 24-bit/192kHz, with a high dynamic range for clean, detailed reproduction. This architecture allows precise control of routing in DJ software or audio workstations, without the need for additional hardware.

The GIGAPORT eX also features two independent stereo headphone outputs. The first provides a global mix of all the playback channels, while the second allows you to listen specifically to the signal from channels 1 and 2. This configuration is particularly suited to pre-listening and cueing in DJing situations, where the simultaneous management of several sources is essential.

Software compatibility is one of the strong points of this interface. On Windows, the EWDM drivers support the ASIO 2.0, WDM, MME and DirectSound protocols, with advanced routing functions via DirectWIRE. On macOS, the GIGAPORT eX works in native CoreAudio without driver installation, so you can get started straight away. It is also class-compliant, making it easy to integrate into a wide range of system environments.