Description
The Behringer UMC202HD U-PHORIA USB Audio Interface is a popular and highly-regarded 2-in/2-out USB 2.0 audio interface, particularly favored by singer-songwriters, podcasters, and home studio enthusiasts due to its excellent sound quality and affordable price point.
It’s part of Behringer’s U-PHORIA series, known for offering professional features at accessible prices. The “HD” in its name signifies its high-resolution capabilities.
Key Features and Specifications:
- 2×2 USB 2.0 Audio Interface: Allows for simultaneous recording of two input sources and playback of two output channels to your computer.
- Audiophile 24-Bit/192 kHz Resolution: This is a major selling point. It supports high-resolution audio recording and playback, ensuring your recordings capture detail and clarity suitable for professional projects.
- MIDAS-Designed Mic Preamplifiers: A significant feature at this price point. Behringer has incorporated two high-quality preamps designed by MIDAS, a renowned company in the professional live sound industry. These preamps are known for their clean sound, low noise, and ample headroom.
- +48V Phantom Power: Both preamps provide switchable +48V phantom power, essential for powering condenser microphones (which are widely used for vocals and acoustic instruments).
- Combo XLR/TRS Inputs: The two input jacks are versatile combo connectors, accepting both XLR cables (for microphones) and 1/4″ TRS/TS cables (for line-level instruments like keyboards, drum machines, or Hi-Z inputs for guitars/basses).
- Zero-Latency Direct Monitoring: A crucial feature for recording. It allows you to hear your input signal (your voice or instrument) directly through the interface’s headphone output or main outputs without any audible delay from your computer. This eliminates distractions and helps musicians perform better.
- Dedicated Headphone Output: Features a 1/4″ headphone jack with its own independent level control and a “Direct Monitor” switch.
- Main Outputs: Two 1/4″ TRS balanced outputs for connecting to studio monitors.
- Indicators: LED indicators for Power, Signal (shows input level), and Clip (warns if the signal is too hot and clipping).
- USB Bus-Powered: The interface draws all necessary power directly from your computer’s USB port, eliminating the need for an external power adapter and making it highly portable.
- “Built-like-a-tank” Metal Chassis: Features a sturdy, impact-resistant metal casing for durability, making it suitable for both studio and mobile use.
- Wide Compatibility: Works seamlessly with most popular Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) like Avid Pro Tools, Ableton Live, Steinberg Cubase, GarageBand, and more. It’s compatible with both macOS (OS X or higher) and Windows (XP or higher). Drivers are often class-compliant for Mac, while specific ASIO drivers are available for Windows for optimal low-latency performance.
- Bundled Software: Often comes with downloadable audio recording, editing, and podcasting software (like Tracktion Waveform) plus a suite of 150 instrument/effect plug-ins upon product registration.
Ideal Applications:
- Singer-Songwriters: Easily record vocals and an instrument simultaneously.
- Podcasters: Capture clear, professional-sounding dialogue.
- Voice-over Artists: Excellent for recording voiceovers for videos, commercials, etc.
- Home Studio Enthusiasts: A solid core for a compact home recording setup.
- Guitarists/Bassists: Direct input for recording instruments, often with amp simulation plugins.
