The UR22 was famous for its “built like a tank” character and the MK2 is an equally robust unit with an all-metal chassis. The product includes a USB 2.0 cable, Cubasis LE (App Store), Cubase AI, installation disc, and a manual. This 2-in/2-out unit is a great investment for recording enthusiasts at any level of expertise. Riding on the success of the UR22, the MK2 is the 2nd Gen version that features iPad-compatibility.
From pro performance to power to exemplary preamps, it ranks as one of the best audio interface a producer or recording artist can aspire to own. Overall, the UA Apollo Twin X Duo is a feature-laden beast that is rife with all the reasons we love Universal Audio’s Apollo range. You can also check out the Apollo Twin X Quad if you need more processing power.
The real gem, however, is the UA Console software that has an intuitive UI and offers intricate control. The Twin X’s audio I/O delivers fantastic signal paths that are paired with reliable and easy-to-use software. The side buttons allow you to toggle the phantom power, mute the monitors, and control the preamps. The data-entry dial works as a volume and/or input gain control. The minimalist control panel sports a handful of buttons and a large dial.
This audio interface is a compact and portable 2-in/4-out Thunderbolt-3 device with a built-in DSP and 2x UAD-2 processing cores. Universal Audio has been in the game for 70 years and their superior design and technology is evident in the highly desirable Twin X Duo.
Overall, it is a fantastic option for musicians, producers, podcasters, and recording enthusiasts, especially if you are just starting out. The UMC202HD includes a software suite that includes recording software and plug-ins. This feature-packed unit punches above its weight and the incredulous value for money has prompted us to pick Behringer as our best budget option. It also includes MIDI compatibility and LED indicators. Each channel has its dedicated controls that are easy to access and tweak.īehringer has equipped it with A/B monitor switching, monitor mix, and a stereo/mono switch that will come in handy when you want to audition your mixes.
The panel gives you access to Line/Instrument switches, gain knobs, pad switches, and jack inputs for the designated in/out channels connected to Midas designed preamps. The preamps are quiet and transparent and the overall sound quality is great for the price. The UMC404HD has a 4-in/4-out config that is loaded with four dedicated preamps, a rarity in this price bracket. The 3rd Gen 2i2 is proof that Focusrite is at the top of their game of great quality interfaces that won’t break the bank. The highly detailed audio quality, thoughtful upgrades, and long list of features make the Scarlett 2i2 a formidable option for new and experienced recording artists alike. The new Air feature elevates the 2i2 into a new league of impressive audio quality, especially when you record vocals in a home studio. This is evidenced by the low noise, low latency, and excellent clarity in its performance. We’ve picked this unit as our “Editor’s Choice” based on the exemplary audio quality. This includes the gain knob, inputs, outputs, phantom power (48 volts), and USB-C port. Besides this, it retains all the great design elements of its predecessors. The 2i2’s 3rd Gen avatar boasts of an upgraded preamp with better headroom and “Air mode” for top-end detail. The soundcard is bundled with supporting software that includes Ableton Live Lite, Focusrite Red plugin suite, and Avid Pro Tools First. The 2-in/2-out Scarlet 2i2 is an integral part of the legacy they’ve built in the past decade. Compare Prices: Thomann (Europe) | Amazonįocusrite has conquered the market with the Scarlett range of soundcards.