Behringer U-PHORIA UMC202HD Review

The Behringer U-PHORIA UMC202HD is a 2×2 USB audio interface that allows you to connect microphones, instruments, and other audio devices to your computer. With its high-quality AD/DA converters, MIDI connectivity, and headphone amplifier, the UMC202HD provides an affordable way to record and produce music on your desktop or laptop.

In this detailed review, we’ll take a close look at the features, sound quality, design, and value of the Behringer UMC202HD to help you determine if it’s the right audio interface for your home recording needs.

Key Features

• 2 x 2 USB audio interface with 24-bit/192 kHz resolution
• XENYX mic preamps with +48 V phantom power
• Latency-free monitoring with Direct Monitoring
• MIDI I/O for synthesizers and MIDI controllers
• High-resolution 24-bit/192 kHz converters
• Compatible with major DAWs and operating systems

Audio Interface

The UMC202HD provides two combo XLR/TRS inputs with XENYX mic preamps, plus two balanced 1/4″ TRS outputs. This allows you to connect professional microphones, guitars, keyboards, and other line-level sources for recording.

Behringer U-Phoria UMC202HD USB Audio Interface

• Phantom Power
• Compatible with popular recording software including avid pro tools*, Ableton live*, Steinberg Cubase*, etc
• Powerful Phones output with Level control and Direct Monitor select, "Built-like-a-tank", impact-resistant metal chassis
• Compatible with popular recording software including Avid Pro Tools*, Ableton Live*, Steinberg Cubase*, etc

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The mic preamps provide wide gain range up to 60dB, with switchable +48V phantom power for condenser microphones. The Hi-Z instrument input on channel 1 allows direct connection of an electric guitar or bass.

For monitoring, the UMC202HD offers a headphone output with independent source selection and level control. You can zero-latency direct monitoring right from the inputs for realtime listening.

Resolution and Conversion

A key spec of any audio interface is its AD/DA conversion, and the UMC202HD delivers high-resolution 24-bit/192 kHz performance. This exceeds CD-quality 16-bit/44.1 kHz, providing more detailed and accurate analog-to-digital conversion of your audio sources.

Connectivity

The UMC202HD connects to your computer via a standard USB 2.0 port. The USB bus powers the unit, so no external power supply is required. USB 2.0 provides fast data transfer speeds for low-latency monitoring and recording.

In addition to the audio I/O, the UMC202HD includes standard 5-pin MIDI input and output connections. This allows you to connect external MIDI keyboards, drum machines, synthesizers and other MIDI devices.

Compatibility

The UMC202HD works seamlessly with all major digital audio workstation (DAW) recording software like Pro Tools, Logic, Ableton Live, Reaper and more. It’s compatible with Windows and Mac operating systems, with no drivers to install. Just plug in via USB and you’re ready to record.

Sound Quality

With its high-quality converters and XENYX preamps, the UMC202HD delivers clean, accurate audio quality that rivals more expensive interfaces. The 24-bit/192 kHz conversion ensures wide dynamic range and frequency response, capturing subtle details in your performances.

The mic preamps provide 60dB of gain for sensitive condenser mics while maintaining a low noise floor. Many users praise the transparent, neutral sound of the UMC202HD preamps that doesn’t color the source audio.

During monitoring and playback, the headphone amp provides plenty of volume while retaining audio fidelity. Overall the UMC202HD performs far above its price point in terms of sound quality and accuracy.

Design

The UMC202HD sports a compact, rugged metal chassis that’s designed for portability. It’s small enough to toss in a backpack for mobile recording, and feels solidly constructed.

The front panel provides access to the two combo input jacks, gain knobs, phantom power switches, and headphone volume control. Multi-color signal LEDs provide visual feedback of audio activity, peaking, and phantom power status.

Meanwhile the back panel hosts the main I/O connections including MIDI, USB, and the two main outputs. Despite its small size, all controls are easily accessible and logically arranged.

Comparison to Other Interfaces

Here’s how the key specs of the UMC202HD stack up against some comparable audio interfaces in the same price range:

As you can see, the UMC202HD compares very favorably in terms of I/O, resolution, and price against similarly equipped models. The addition of MIDI and phantom power gives it extra versatility in a small desktop package.

Pros and Cons

Here are some of the key advantages and potential downsides of the UMC202HD audio interface:

Pros

• Excellent value for the price
• 24-bit/192 kHz high-resolution conversion
• XENYX preamps comparable to more expensive models
• Phantom power for condenser mics
• Direct Monitoring for latency-free recording
• Compact, rugged metal construction
• MIDI I/O included
• Plug-and-play USB connectivity

Cons

• Only two inputs may be limiting for some
• USB bus power, no external power option
• Input gain knobs feel flimsy
• Limited bundle software included

Conclusion

With its high-quality audio performance, versatile I/O, and attractive price point, the Behringer U-PHORIA UMC202HD is a standout 2-channel USB interface. It provides an easy entry into computer-based recording for home studio enthusiasts, allowing you to connect mics, instruments, and MIDI gear.

Compared to more expensive models, the UMC202HD delivers premium sound quality and features at a fraction of the cost. It’s the perfect heartbeat of an affordable yet capable desktop recording setup.

So if you’re looking for an budget-friendly audio interface to improve your recordings, the UMC202HD deserves strong consideration. It delivers professional-grade performance well beyond its modest price tag.

Overall the Behringer U-PHORIA UMC202HD earns our recommendation as an ideal starter interface for home recording on desktop and laptop systems.

FAQs

Does the UMC202HD work with iPad/iOS?

Yes, with the Apple Camera Connection Kit you can connect the UMC202HD to an iPad or iPhone for iOS recording. It will interface with Garageband and other iOS DAWs.

What comes in the box?

The UMC202HD comes with the interface itself, a USB cable, and download codes for free software including Cubase LE and software from IK Multimedia.

Can I use condenser mics without phantom power?

You can, but the mic signal will be very low in volume and lack dynamics without the +48V phantom power engaged on the interface. Always enable phantom power for condenser microphones.

Is the headphone output suitable for studio headphones?

Yes, the UMC202HD headphone amplifier provides plenty of power (150 mW @ 32 ohms) for most studio monitoring headphones like the Sony MDR-7506.

Does it work with Chromebook/Android devices?

Unfortunately the UMC202HD does not officially support Chromebook or Android devices. It may work through a USB-C adapter, but USB audio class support is limited.

Behringer U-Phoria UMC202HD USB Audio Interface

• Phantom Power
• Compatible with popular recording software including avid pro tools*, Ableton live*, Steinberg Cubase*, etc
• Powerful Phones output with Level control and Direct Monitor select, "Built-like-a-tank", impact-resistant metal chassis
• Compatible with popular recording software including Avid Pro Tools*, Ableton Live*, Steinberg Cubase*, etc

Check Price on Amazon