Universal Audio
Volt 2
Best audio interface for home recording artists and podcasters.
The Universal Audio Volt 2 USB audio interface offers two high-quality audio inputs and two output channels, perfect for home recording, podcasts, and streaming. It features 24Bit/192kHz converters and built-in microphone preamps with a vintage mic preamp mode that reproduces the sound of the classic UA 610 preamp. For condenser microphones, it includes a switchable +48 V phantom power. The interface also boasts a headphone amplifier with direct monitoring for zero-latency tracking. It's compatible with Windows 10 (64-bit), macOS 10.14 or later, and iOS 14 or later devices via its USB-C port. The Volt 2 comes with a comprehensive software package including Ableton Live Lite, Softube Marshall Plexi Classic Amp, Softube Time & Tone Bundle, Celemony Melodyne Essential, Relab's LX480 Essentials, Plugin Alliance Ampeg SVT-VR Classic, UJAM Virtual Drummer DEEP, Virtual Bassist DANDY, and Spitfire LABS. It also includes LUNA Digital Audio Workstation, PolyMAX Polyphonic Synth, Century tube channel strip, Pultec passive EQ collection, Teletronix LA-2A leveller collection, Galaxy tape echo, Pure plate reverb, Oxide tape recorder, and Verve Analog Machines Essentials. The combo inputs accept XLR or 6.3 mm jack plugs for mic, line, and instrument levels, and MIDI input/output ports are available for external controllers and instruments. The device is USB bus-powered and includes a USB-C to USB-A cable. It's praised for its solid build, ease of use, and great sound, with the vintage sound option being a particular highlight for some users.
$148.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
125
/ 439
#125 in Audio Cards & Adapters
Price vs Category Average
-87%
Below average
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22
/ x
Who it's for
- Vocalists seeking a warm, classic analog sound on a budget
- Home producers needing a complete, ready-to-use software starter kit
- Desktop creators wanting a durable, stylish interface for their workspace
Who should skip it
- Power users requiring deep Unison plugin integration and impedance matching
- Growing studios needing digital expansion for additional hardware inputs
- Windows users prioritizing the lowest possible latency for real-time monitoring
Performance breakdown
Audio Fidelity
High-resolution 24-bit/192kHz conversion delivers professional-grade clarity for home studio recordings.
Vintage Preamp Character
The 610-mode emulation adds authentic analog warmth to dry digital signals.
Software Bundle Value
An extensive suite of industry-standard plugins provides immediate professional production capabilities.
Latency Performance
Direct monitoring ensures zero-latency tracking for seamless vocal and instrument performances.
Build Durability
Sturdy metal construction stands up to the rigors of daily desktop use.
Connectivity Versatility
Combo inputs and MIDI I/O offer essential flexibility for diverse recording setups.
Key Specs
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2x2
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2
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2
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2
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2
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1
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Yes
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0
Features
- 24 Bit / 192 kHz AD/DA converter
- Built-in microphone preamps with vintage mic preamp mode
- +48 V phantom power switchable
- Headphone amplifier
- Direct monitoring
- USB bus-powered
- Compatible with PC (Windows 10 64 bit), Mac (macOS 10.14 Mojave or later), iPad and iPhone (iOS 14 or later)
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 174 x 130 x 53 mm
- Weight: 0.65 kg
- Includes USB-C to USB-A cable
- 2 Mic/Instrument/Line combo inputs: XLR / 6.3 mm jack
- 2 Line outputs: 6.3 mm jack
- Stereo headphone output: 6.3 mm jack
- 1 MIDI input and output
- 5V DC input for optional power supply
- USB-C connector
- Zero latency monitoring
What customers say
The Universal Audio Volt 2 earns high praise for delivering exceptional audio quality and robust build quality at an accessible price point. Users consistently highlight the clean preamps and clear converters, noting the signature UA sound. The included Vintage preamp mode adds desirable analog character to recordings. Its durable, retro metal chassis inspires confidence. Furthermore, the generous software bundle significantly boosts its value proposition, offering a powerful toolkit immediately. Setup is reported as straightforward, making it an excellent, reliable choice for home studio users and beginners seeking professional results without complexity.
Know before you buy
Yes, the Volt 2 is compatible with iOS 14 or later devices. You may need an Apple Lightning to USB Camera Adapter or a USB-C connection depending on your specific device model.
The Vintage mode engages an analog circuit emulation that mimics the sound of Universal Audio’s classic 610 tube preamp. It adds a subtle, warm harmonic saturation to your vocals or instruments, making them sound richer and more polished.
The interface is USB bus-powered, meaning it draws power directly from your computer or device through the USB-C cable. However, it does include a 5V DC input if you prefer to use an external power supply for added stability.
Yes, the two combo inputs allow you to record two sources simultaneously. You can plug an XLR microphone into one input and a 6.3 mm instrument or line-level source into the other.
Yes, the Volt 2 features direct monitoring, which allows you to hear your input signal through your headphones in real-time without any latency. This is essential for tracking vocals or instruments accurately.
Yes, the Volt 2 features dedicated 5-pin MIDI input and output ports on the back. This allows you to connect external hardware synthesizers, drum machines, or MIDI controllers directly to your recording setup.
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$148