I know it's been a while but I just wanted to throw my two cents in. I've been using the U-44 for a couple of years now and I can not recommend it highly enough.

It is very much like taking a full studio console, throwing away all the crap you don't need and just having each bit you need in your home.

It has silent pre-amps that were developed for use in the film industry and it functions beautifully. Silence IS GOLDEN in recording.

Some people don't think it's sturdy enough but I've travelled all over the world with mine recording on rooftops in Guanajuato Mexico, kitchen tables in Bogota Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico City, Canada, all over and it will come with me where ever I go.

I take a carry on suitcase that contains the U-44, some 5 channel wireless guitar connectors, a very high quality set of headphones, two guitars in an Enki case, some picks and a mini travel accoustic in my backpack with laptop, tuner and other little bits.

I've been able to created amazing recordings this way anytime anywhere.

The U-44 has source balancing, there is an A and B mute function, hi-z, 48v power for a high quality mic, two quarter inch Jacks, two Mic jacks, RCA outputs two RCA line outs, Midi in and out, 3 power source options, 3 operation modes so it can function as an audio interface or a stand alone recorder, it has fibre optic inputs and an expander jack to add more SLR jacks or whatever you like. It's bloody amazing actually and tougher than it feels, and it's as light as feather. Looks pretty good too.

I have one complaint after two years. the labels will rub off where you touch it continually while making adjustments. Mine is now just a -44 no more U

I actually bought a second U-44 in case this one goes off the market. I love mine and would honestly hate not to have one with me all the time. In fact I'll probably buy a 3rd one to have years and years from now but so far the first one works perfectly after 240 recordings over 2 years.

You can NOT go wrong with the U-44