The IK Multimedia iRig 2 Portable Guitar Audio Interface is a handy little device that allows you to connect your guitar or bass to your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac or PC. It’s lightweight, portable, and provides a high-quality audio connection for recording or live performance using various guitar-related apps. In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the features and performance of the iRig 2 to see if it lives up to its promise.

Overview of the iRig 2

The iRig 2 is the second generation of IK Multimedia’s popular iRig guitar interface. It’s an upgrade over the original iRig with improved audio quality and broader compatibility. The device itself is small and compact, about the size of a pack of gum, with a standard 1/4″ guitar input and a 3.5mm output jack. It comes with 2 cables – one with a 1/4″ jack for your guitar and one with a 3.5mm jack for connecting to your mobile device or computer.

Some key features of the iRig 2:

• 24-bit audio conversion
• Sample rates up to 48 kHz
• Integrated preamp with gain control
• Can provide phantom power for condenser mics
• Works with iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac, PC
• Compatible with all major guitar apps and software

Setup and Connectivity

Setting up the iRig 2 is quick and easy. You simply plug the 1/4″ cable into your guitar, bass, or other instrument. Plug the 3.5mm out to your phone, tablet, computer, or recording device. The iRig 2 is powered by the device it’s connected to, so no batteries or external power is required.

On Sale

IK Multimedia iRig 2 portable guitar audio interface, lightweight audio adapter for iPhone and iPad with instrument input and headphone/amplfiier outs

• PLUG AND PLAY SIMPLICITY ON EVERY DEVICE: Adjustable gain dial, which works with its built-in 1/8"" TRRS output connector to give you a true plug-and-play experience with your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch or Mac.
• CONNECT TO AMPLIFIER WITHOUT ADDITIONAL ACCESSORIES: iRig 2's new 1/4” output jack lets you use iRig 2 with an amplifier as a part of your live rig without the use of an adaptor.
• CONNECT TO ANY APPLE DEVICE: Use a Apple-brand USB-C to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter to ensure compatibility with newer iOS devices— Easily record high-quality audio right to your mobile device. Use the built-in 1/8" headphone output or 1/4" amplifier output to listen to audio with headphones or amplifier.
• ROCK WITH iRig 2: Paired with AmpliTube CS (free) for iOS, IK's powerful guitar and bass multi-effects processor. AmpliTube CS provides you with a vast library of meticulously modeled virtual stompbox effects, amplifiers.
• EVEN BETTER: iRig 2 features a switch that lets you select between a processed signal and a clean "thru" input signal. This means you can also use your mobile device as a tuner, recorder or other tool while preserving the purity of a 100% analog signal path.

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For mobile use, you’ll want to download one of the many compatible guitar amp/effect apps to utilize the iRig 2 as an interface. Popular options include AmpliTube, GarageBand, Bias FX, JamUp Pro, and more. The iRig 2 is class-compliant, meaning it works seamlessly with any Core Audio or ASIO-compatible app or software without the need to install drivers.

On Mac and PC, the iRig 2 can be used with digital audio workstations like Pro Tools, Logic, Ableton Live, and more. You can record directly into your computer without any latency or need for external power. It’s as simple as selecting the iRig 2 as your input device and connecting your guitar.

Sound Quality and Performance

How does the iRig 2 actually perform in terms of audio quality? In my experience, it provides clear, accurate sound when used properly. The upgraded 24-bit conversion captures the full frequency range and dynamic response of your instrument or microphone. It delivers your raw guitar tone cleanly so amp/effect simulators process the uncolored signal.

Gain control on the iRig 2 allows you to boost the input level optimally for the device you’re using. Proper gain staging ensures the best signal-to-noise ratio, minimizing unwanted noise and maximizing the resolution. The headphone/line out volume seems loud enough to me in most scenarios, whether practicing with headphones or running direct signal to a PA system.

Latency is practically non-existent using the iRig 2, even when monitoring through guitar apps or audio workstations. This is essential for playing and recording with good timing and feel. Of course, your device and audio software settings impact latency too, but the iRig 2 hardware provides real-time processing and throughput.

All in all, I find the audio quality extremely impressive for the price and compact size. It’s crystal clear, responsive, and gives you the unadulterated sound of your instrument. No unwanted noise or artifacts. Just pure signal to work with.

Compatible Apps and Software

As mentioned, the iRig 2 is highly versatile when it comes to compatibility. It works seamlessly with iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac, and PC. And it’s designed to work with virtually any app or software for guitars and recording.

For mobile use, you have a ton of great amp sim and multi-effects apps to utilize, like AmpliTube, Bias FX, GarageBand, Cubasis, JamUp Pro, AmpKit+, Guitar Rig, and more. It’s amazing how much you can do right on your phone or tablet.

On desktop setups, you can use the iRig 2 with DAW software like Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Ableton Live, Reaper, Audacity, and others. Plug in and access your guitar tone and effects within your recording software.

Or you can go the amp/effects plugin route with options like: Guitar Rig, AmpliTube, Plugins from Waves, Native Instruments, Line 6, Positive Grid, and so many others. The iRig 2 is widely compatible with anything meant for guitars, basses, and even microphones.

Design

In terms of design and build quality, the iRig 2 is nicely compact without feeling flimsy or cheap. The small aluminum chassis seems durable enough for regular use. The gain knob feels solid and the input/output jacks are securely attached. My only minor complaint is that the cables are permanently attached rather than removable.

The device itself is lightweight and small enough to easily fit in your pocket or guitar case. It’s designed to handle up to 10 hours of continuous use, making it ideal for extended practice sessions, live gigs, or long recording takes. The iRig 2 can be powered off any +5V USB power source for even longer durations if needed.

Overall, it’s a simple, portable, and road-worthy interface that gets the job done. The no-frills design puts the focus on sound quality and broad compatibility.

Pros and Cons

Here are some summarized pros and cons based on my experience with the IK Multimedia iRig 2:

Pros:

• Great audio quality for the price
• 24-bit conversion and 48 kHz sample rate
• Extremely low latency
• Easy connectivity via 1/4” and 3.5mm jacks
• Broad compatibility with iOS and desktop devices
• Compact, durable design
• No batteries or external power required

Cons:

• Non-removable cables
• Limited controls (just gain knob and output volume)
• No stereo input option

Alternatives

How does the iRig 2 compare to other portable guitar audio interfaces on the market? Here are a few alternatives worth considering:

Apogee Jam+ – Slightly more expensive but offers 24-bit/96kHz resolution and better preamp quality. Also has an onboard stereo mic. However, no gain control.

Line 6 Sonic Port – Similar price but with multiple inputs, XLR connectivity, and more controls. Lacks analog gain staging though.

Mooer Micro X – Cheaper option but only 16-bit resolution. Good value for money but sound quality isn’t as pristine.

Shure MOTIV – Competitively priced with some nice perks like rechargeable battery and monitor mix control. Tone quality is solid but a bit cold/sterile sounding.

Focusrite iTrack Solo – Higher quality preamps and the option to power via USB-C. No gain control and pricier than the iRig 2.

The iRig 2 holds up well compared to others and remains a great value interface for guitarists. Its pure analog signal path and universal compatibility give it an edge over some competitors.

Who is it For?

The iRig 2 is an excellent choice for:

• Guitarists and bassists who want high quality mobile recording
• Performing musicians who need live amplification via smartphone/tablet
• Songwriters who write with guitar-based apps and software
• Producers who want to capture clean guitar tracks in the studio
• Anyone seeking an ultra-portable desktop recording interface

It brings studio-quality guitar recording potential to iPhone users, mobile musicians, and multitasking creators. With its broad compatibility and clean, uncolored sound, the iRig 2 appeals to beginners and professionals alike.

FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions about the IK Multimedia iRig 2:

Does the iRig 2 require any special power source?

No, the iRig 2 is totally bus-powered. It draws its power from the device it’s plugged into, whether that’s your iPhone, iPad, computer, etc. No batteries or external power needed.

What’s the maximum sample/bit rate?

The iRig 2 supports up to 48 kHz sampling rate and 24-bit resolution.

Can I use it for microphones too?

Yes, the iRig 2 works with dynamic and condenser mics. It can provide the necessary phantom power for condenser mics via its integrated preamp.

Does it work well for bass guitars?

Absolutely. It provides the same high-quality signal for bass guitars and other instruments too.

Is there any software or drivers I need to install?

Nope! The iRig 2 is true plug-and-play via its class compliant operation. No extra software or drivers necessary for any device.

What’s the latency like for monitoring/recording?

Virtually non-existent. The iRig 2 has undetectable ultra-low latency for realtime monitoring. You’ll never feel lag or delay.

What guitars/devices have you tested it with?

I’ve used it with acoustic, electric, and bass guitars. And it’s worked flawlessly with iPhone, iPad, MacBook Pro, and Windows desktops.

How durable is the iRig 2 for gigging use?

It feels sturdy enough for live use thanks to the metal chassis. The cables don’t disconnect easily either. I’d have no worries gigging with it.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a compact, road-ready guitar interface with top-notch audio performance, the IK Multimedia iRig 2 is an excellent option. It delivers pristine 24-bit sound in a tiny footprint that seamlessly works with all your devices. The high-quality preamps and near-zero latency provide a pure signal chain for flawless recording and live monitoring. Plus, it’s universally compatible with iOS and desktop devices without any extra setup. For guitarists who need pro studio-quality tone anywhere, the iRig 2 is easy to recommend.

On Sale

IK Multimedia iRig 2 portable guitar audio interface, lightweight audio adapter for iPhone and iPad with instrument input and headphone/amplfiier outs

• PLUG AND PLAY SIMPLICITY ON EVERY DEVICE: Adjustable gain dial, which works with its built-in 1/8"" TRRS output connector to give you a true plug-and-play experience with your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch or Mac.
• CONNECT TO AMPLIFIER WITHOUT ADDITIONAL ACCESSORIES: iRig 2's new 1/4” output jack lets you use iRig 2 with an amplifier as a part of your live rig without the use of an adaptor.
• CONNECT TO ANY APPLE DEVICE: Use a Apple-brand USB-C to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter to ensure compatibility with newer iOS devices— Easily record high-quality audio right to your mobile device. Use the built-in 1/8" headphone output or 1/4" amplifier output to listen to audio with headphones or amplifier.
• ROCK WITH iRig 2: Paired with AmpliTube CS (free) for iOS, IK's powerful guitar and bass multi-effects processor. AmpliTube CS provides you with a vast library of meticulously modeled virtual stompbox effects, amplifiers.
• EVEN BETTER: iRig 2 features a switch that lets you select between a processed signal and a clean "thru" input signal. This means you can also use your mobile device as a tuner, recorder or other tool while preserving the purity of a 100% analog signal path.

Check Price on Amazon