Arturia’s AudioFuse 16Rig: The Glitch Mob’s Hybrid Workflow Powerhouse

Diving into the hardware, the AudioFuse 16Rig boasts 16 analog inputs and 10 analog outputs, making it a formidable hub for recording and mixing. The Glitch Mob highlight how this abundance of I/O allows them to connect a wide array of analog gear—synths, modular rigs, and more—without constant repatching or compromise. The interface’s clear labeling and visual feedback further support a streamlined workflow, reducing the cognitive load during creative sessions.

Preset customization is another key feature that gets the spotlight. Users can label every input and output, save their own routing and mix settings, and expand the system with the X8 in and out modules. This modularity means the 16Rig can scale with evolving studio needs, accommodating everything from simple synth tracking to complex, multi-source recording sessions.

One of the most compelling aspects discussed is the 16Rig’s standalone mode. The Glitch Mob emphasize how this allows them to integrate modular synthesizers and other hardware directly, without needing a computer or DAW running. This is a game-changer for spontaneous creativity—just power up the interface, patch in your gear, and start playing, all while monitoring and mixing directly from the device.

The mixer page offers hands-on control over mutes, solos, trims, and auxiliary sends, making the 16Rig more than just a passive conduit. It becomes an active instrument in the studio, enabling jam sessions, guitar plug-ins, or modular explorations without the friction of booting up software. For those who value immediacy and tactile control, this standalone capability is a significant workflow advantage.

For The Glitch Mob, sound exploration isn’t just a technique—it’s the core of their identity. The video underscores how electronic production offers a vast sonic palette, encouraging experimentation and the pursuit of sounds that defy convention. The AudioFuse 16Rig, especially with its latest firmware and the AudioFuse Control Center, supports this ethos by providing deep control over monitoring and routing.

A standout feature is the new immersive monitoring option. The ability to precisely dial in subwoofer levels, set crossover points, and toggle monitoring configurations on the fly is highlighted as a breakthrough for those producing bass-heavy dance music. This level of monitoring flexibility is crucial when crafting tracks meant to shake club systems and translate across diverse playback environments.

Ultimately, the 16Rig’s architecture empowers artists to push boundaries, supporting both the technical demands of complex productions and the creative drive to make something truly original. It’s not just about capturing sound, but about shaping and experiencing it in new ways.