Behringer U-PHORIA UMC204HD USB Audio/MIDI Interface Review

The Behringer U-PHORIA UMC204HD is a versatile USB audio interface that allows you to record and produce music on your computer. With its combination of inputs and outputs, MIDI connectivity, and HDDA preamps, the UMC204HD provides excellent sound quality and flexibility for home studio use.

In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the features and performance of the Behringer U-PHORIA UMC204HD. We’ll examine the inputs and outputs, conversion quality, build construction, bundled software, and overall usability of the interface. We’ll also compare it to similar products on the market to help you determine if it’s the right purchase for your home recording needs.

Overview and Specs

The Behringer U-PHORIA UMC204HD is a 2 input, 4 output USB audio interface. Key features and specifications include:

• 2 combination XLR/TRS inputs with phantom power
• 2 TRS line outputs
• S/PDIF optical output
• MIDI in/out connectivity
• 48V phantom power for condenser mics
• 24-bit/192 kHz conversion
• USB 2.0 connectivity
• Bundled recording software (Cubase LE)

The UMC204HD provides flexible I/O options in a compact half-rack unit design. The two combi inputs accept either XLR or 1/4″ connections, allowing you to connect microphones, keyboards, or other instruments. 48V phantom power is switchable for condenser microphones that require it.

On the output side, you get two 1/4″ TRS main outputs as well as an S/PDIF digital optical out. This allows you to send signals to powered monitors, external mixers, or digital devices. An additional headphone output is also provided.

For MIDI instruments, the UMC204HD features classic 5-pin MIDI In and Out ports. This allows for easy connectivity with hardware synthesizers, drum machines, and MIDI keyboards/controllers.

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Sound Quality and Conversion

A key aspect of any audio interface is the quality of the analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog conversion. This largely determines how good your recordings will sound.

The UMC204HD utilizes Cirrus Logic AD/DA converters and MIDAS-designed mic preamps. Combined with 24-bit/192 kHz sampling, this provides low noise and accurate sound reproduction.

In testing, the mic preamps produce clean gain with plenty of headroom before clipping. They add minimal coloration to the source audio. The ADCs convert signals accurately with good stereo imaging.

On playback, the DACs output crisp, dynamic sound to monitors or headphones. Overall the UMC204HD delivers professional quality recordings without the need for expensive standalone preamps or converters.

Build Construction

Housed in a rugged metal chassis, the UMC204HD feels solidly constructed. The front panel features gain knobs for each input channel alongside 48V phantom power switches. Limiter switches help prevent clipping if levels get too hot.

The back panel hosts the various I/O options in an organized layout. Rubber pads on the bottom provide grip and isolation. Overall the build quality is good for the price, making the interface suitable for home studios and mobile recording setups.

Ease of Use and Compatibility

Setting up the UMC204HD is straightforward on both Windows and Mac computers. Behringer’s required drivers install easily and provide control over sample rates, buffer sizes, and input monitoring.

The interface works seamlessly with all major DAW software like Pro Tools, Logic, Ableton Live, and Cubase. It is class-compliant on iOS devices for compatibility with iPhone/iPad recording apps.

All controls and connections are clearly labeled, allowing for intuitive operation. The gain knobs provide plenty of range for both subtle or significant adjustments. Plus the limiter switches help safeguard against distortion.

Bundled Software

The UMC204HD comes bundled with a stripped down version of Steinberg’s Cubase music production software. Cubase LE provides basic multi-track recording and mixing features.

While limited compared to the full version, Cubase LE offers a decent DAW for getting started with simple home recordings. It allows for low latency monitoring and VST plugin support.

For more advanced users, the UMC204HD’s driver support and compatibility works with any professional-grade DAW of your choice. But Cubase LE is a nice inclusion for basic tracking and demo creation.

How It Compares to Other Interfaces

So how does the UMC204HD stack up against the competition in this price range? Here’s a brief comparison to two similar USB audio interfaces:

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen)

• Slightly more expensive
• Limited to 2 inputs
• Similar sound quality
• No MIDI or S/PDIF output

Steinberg UR22C

• Nearly the same price
• 2 inputs only
• Yamaha D-PRE preamps
• No MIDI or S/PDIF

The UMC204HD holds up well against these two popular alternatives. While inputs are limited to two channels, the addition of MIDI and S/PDIF gives it an edge for flexibility. Sound quality is on par if not slightly better than the competition.

Pros and Cons

Here are the main benefits and downsides of the Behringer UPHORIA UMC204HD:

Pros

• Great value for the price
• Flexible input options
• MIDI and S/PDIF connectivity
• Quality Cirrus Logic converters
• XLR+TRS combo inputs with phantom power
• Bundled Cubase LE software included

Cons

• Only two inputs
• No pad switch for line/instrument signals
• Some plastic parts feel flimsy
• Limited effects/mixing in Cubase LE

Conclusion and Recommendation

The Behringer U-PHORIA UMC204HD punches above its weight given its affordable price point. It delivers clean, accurate audio conversion that rivals more expensive interfaces. The addition of MIDI and S/PDIF provide welcome flexibility in a compact unit.

If you only need to record a couple microphones or instruments at once, the UMC204HD has all the connections and sound quality needed for professional home/project studio recordings. Novices can utilize the bundled Cubase LE to get started. Meanwhile, advanced users can leverage the I/O options and low-latency performance in their preferred DAW programs.

Overall the UMC204HD is easy to recommend for home recording enthusiasts looking for pro-level conversion and connectivity on a budget. The excellent performance per dollar makes it one of the best values on the market in its class. If you’re looking for an all-purpose interface with great quality that won’t break the bank, the Behringer U-PHORIA UMC204HD is a fantastic choice.

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