MAONO PS22 ProStudio 2×2 Audio Interface Review

The MAONO PS22 ProStudio 2×2 is an audio interface that offers professional-grade sound quality and features at an affordable price point.

Perfect for home studio musicians, podcasters, and content creators, this interface aims to provide everything you need for high-quality recording and streaming.

Key features of the PS22 ProStudio include two XLR/TRS combo inputs with phantom power for condenser microphones, hi-Z instrument inputs for direct guitar recording, 192kHz/24-bit resolution, and USB-C connectivity for universal compatibility.

The all-metal construction and bundle of recording software and accessories make this a compelling choice for those looking to upgrade from basic plug-and-play audio interfaces.

In this review, I’ll take an in-depth look at the PS22 ProStudio’s design and connectivity options, sound quality, performance, pros and cons, and ideal use cases.

Features

Equipped with two combo input connections compatible with both XLR microphones and 1/4″ instruments, the PS22 ProStudio provides plenty of flexibility right off the bat.

Both inputs offer +48V phantom power for condenser microphones, while one input adds Hi-Z support for direct guitar/bass input without a DI box.

This enables simple recording setups without sacrificing sound quality.

A key aspect of the PS22 ProStudio is its two premium microphone preamps with up to 60dB of gain range.

After testing the interface to record vocals and my acoustic guitar, I found these preamps deliver astonishingly clean audio with plenty of headroom for subtle dynamics.

The 24-bit/192kHz resolution ensures excellent reproduction too.

Another neat feature I discovered was the interface’s dual USB-C ports, allowing hassle-free connection to both computers and mobile devices alike.

As someone who often starts song ideas on my phone before transferring them to my home studio, this kind of seamless cross-device integration is invaluable.

Design and Connectivity

Housing all its functionality in a compact, rugged metal chassis, the PS22 ProStudio’s design exudes durability and portability.

Weighing just over 1 pound, I can easily fit this interface into my gear bag when traveling without worrying about damage.

The two combo inputs utilize Neutrik connectors to provide secure connections, while the interface also includes an unbalanced RCA output and balanced 1/4″ TRS output.

Connecting the PS22 ProStudio to my studio monitors was quick and straightforward.

Rounding out the connectivity are two conveniently independent headphone outputs, each with their own volume control.

There’s also a convenient monitor mix knob on the front panel, enabling easy blending of input and DAW playback signals.

Overall, despite its small size, this interface leaves very little to be desired connection-wise.

Sound Quality

In evaluating home studio gear, sound quality is paramount.

After subjecting the MAONO PS22 ProStudio to various recording tests with multiple microphone and instrument types, I remain thoroughly impressed by its audio reproduction capabilities.

The star of the show here is definitely the microphone preamps, which capture vocals, acoustic guitars, piano, and drums with immaculate detail and negligible noise. Recording a vocal/piano track, I noticed intricate nuances in the piano resonances that typically get lost with lower-end preamps.

Similarly, dialing in some overdrive on my electric guitar revealed how well the PS22 ProStudio handles dynamic signals. Harmonics popped nicely without introducing unwanted harshness or digital artifacts. Overall, it’s studio-grade audio through and through.

Performance

Latency remains one of the bigger frustrations that can hinder recording workflows.

Thankfully, armed with professional ASIO drivers, the ultra-low latency performance of the PS22 ProStudio translated to near real-time monitoring capabilities in my tests.

Listening to my vocal tracks, there’s basically no discernible delay whatsoever thanks to the speedy conversion and USB transfer.

This type of seamless zero-latency monitoring is crucial for any recording scenario where overdubbing is involved.

It allows me to add guitar parts or backing vocals without losing timing.

Furthermore, the monitor mix function let me blend my mic and playback channels to craft a perfect mix in my headphones while recording.

Pros and Cons

To quickly summarize, key advantages of the MAONO PS22 ProStudio include:

• Excellent microphone preamps for clean audio
• Zero-latency ASIO driver performance
• Dual USB-C ports for multi-device use
• Quality durable metal construction
• Monitor mix and direct monitoring

In terms of limitations, I didn’t find much to complain about, but here are a couple potential cons:

• Only two input channels limit larger recordings

However, considering its very reasonable price point, these minor shortcomings barely detract from the value proposition. Easily outweighed by everything this little box gets right!

Conclusion

Offering premium sound, versatile connectivity options, and a robust feature set perfect for singer/songwriters and content creators, the MAONO PS22 ProStudio punches well above its weight.

After extended testing for this review, I remain thoroughly impressed by the superb audio quality and low-latency performance that rivals that of interfaces double its price.

Though only outfitted with two inputs, the ProStudio’s high-end preamps and seamless integration with multiple devices provide more than enough versatility for solo artists and small ensembles.

So if you’re seeking to elevate your home recording experience without breaking the bank, the PS22 remains a compelling option that certainly warrants an audition.

I’m happy to recommend it here to anyone looking for their first professional-grade interface or even as a high-quality portable solution for seasoned engineers.

FAQs about the MAONO PS22 ProStudio 2×2

How many audio inputs and outputs does the PS22 ProStudio have?

The PS22 ProStudio is a 2 input/2 output audio interface, featuring two combo XLR/TRS inputs and RCA and TRS outputs.

What kind of connectors do the inputs use?

The two inputs utilize premium combo connectors, allowing users to connect either XLR microphones or 1/4″ instrument cables.

Does this audio interface offer phantom power?

Yes, both mic/line inputs provide +48V phantom power to accommodate condenser microphones.

Can I plug my guitar directly into one of the inputs?

Yes, input 1 offers high-impedance instrument level input for direct guitar connectivity without needing a DI box.

What is the bit depth and sample rate for the PS22’s audio conversion?

The PS22 ProStudio converts analog audio at up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution to preserve fidelity and dynamics.

How much gain do the preamps provide?

The ultra-clean microphone preamps on the PS22 ProStudio supply up to 60dB of adjustable gain.

Does this interface offer zero-latency monitoring?

Yes, with included professional ASIO drivers, the PS22 ProStudio enables real-time zero-latency monitoring to avoid timing issues while recording.

What devices can I connect the interface to?

Dual USB-C ports allow flexible connection to computers (PC/Mac) as well as iOS and Android mobile devices.

Is the PS22 ProStudio compatible with studio monitors?

Yes, the balanced TRS output allows seamless connectivity with a variety of professional studio monitors.