Fender LINK I/O: Worlds Smallest Audio Interface!

This is the Fender LINK I/O audio interface. Released in May 20225, this tiny audio interface is designed primarily to record electric guitar, bass, and acoustic guitar to a computer, phone, and tablet. I tested this with my Apple Mac running GarageBand and there’s a lot to like about it and a few things you need to be aware of if you’re thinking about getting one.

Setup

The setup process is nice and simple. Included in the box is a USB-C to USB-C cable to connect the interface to the computer or tablet and you connect the guitar to the input jack. You don’t have to worry about audio drivers which is nice – just connect it and that’s it. Within GaragBand or your favorite DAW select the audio drivers from the menu (see video below for help), and you’re can start recording

Build Quality

The build quality of the LINK I/O is decent. While it does have a plastic feel to it, the switch, pots, and dials, all feel solid. The Fender LINK I/O is also weighted and there are two silicone feet underneath to stop it from slipping off the table or desk. I had it fall of my desk several times throughout my time with the unit and it is robust enough to handle this sort of situation fine.

Overall, the build quality is solid but Fender should have provided a USB-C to lighting adapter in the box for folks running older iPhones.

Size

The Fender LINK I/O is tiny! It’s not much larger than a conventional guitar slide or clip-on tuner. Here is a size comparison next to my tuner and slide. A downside of the size is that while it’s weighted, it can still fall of a desk if you’re not careful. It fell off the desk several times when making my video. Make sure you have plenty of slack in your guitar cable to avoid this from happening.

Fender LINK I/O Feel

The playing LINK I/O is solid thanks to the guitar input jack emulating the feel of a guitar amps input – and it does a good job of this once you load up some virtual amps and cabinets in the DAW.

Sound Quality

The Fender LINK I/O supports 24-bit 96 khz that allows you to capture high quality audio. 24-bit is the standard and this has no issues recording a guitar signal to the computer. Whether or not a dry guitar signal benefits from 24-bit is up to you because the end result is that you’ll be using virtual amps and guitars to enhance the sound in your favorite Digital Audio Workstation.

Watch my Fender LINK I/O Review and Garageband Demonstration Above (or Watch on Youtube)

Who is the Fender LINK I/O For?

The Fender LINK I/O is for musicians who want to capture ideas to a smartphone, tablet, or computer on the go. It’s small and compact which means you don’t have to bring a conventional sound card with you to capture ideas. This is for musicians who play guitar, bass, or acoustic instruments with a 1/4 output socket.

The Fender LINK I/O does not have an XLR microphone or Microphone input so you’ll be capturing your audio via the instrument input only. For getting ideas and creative spurts captured, it’s a solid option. I was able to get really professional sounding guitar and bass tracks using the Fender Link I/O in my studio.

Fender Link I/O Features:

• Portable Design: Compact, mobility-focused form factor delivers high-fidelity recording in a portable package.
• Streamlined Interface: No-frills design emphasizes quality and versatility with intuitive controls and minimal visual distractions.
• Versatile Input: 1/4-in. input supports active and passive instruments with exceptional accuracy.
• Monitoring Output: Built-in 3.5mm (1/8-in.) output for instant hi-fi monitoring through headphones or speakers.
• USB-C Connectivity: Supports 2-way USB audio for seamless integration with PC, Mac, smartphones, and tablets.
• Fender-Inspired Sound: Input stage mirrors the dynamic response of Fender’s renowned amplifiers, capturing 24-bit/96kHz audio with rich detail and signature Fender character.

Specifications

Specification	Details
Audio Quality	24-bit / 96kHz analog-to-digital conversion
Input	1/4″ high-impedance, supports passive/active instruments
Output	1/8″ headphone out
Sample Rates	44.1, 48, 88.2, 96 kHz
Connectivity	USB-C, bi-directional audio
Monitoring	Latency-free with mix control, LED signal meter
Power	USB-C powered, no external adapter needed
Compatibility	iOS, Android, Mac, PC
Design	Weighted body, anti-skid silicone feet
Price (USD)	$79.99

Disclaimer

Thanks to Fender for sending me this demo unit to test out. This is not a sponsored review and no money has exchanged hands.