This unit seeks, and achieves, a good balance between flexible connectivity and portability, giving users freedom of movement in the studio, on stage, in iPad applications, mobile recording, etc. Its XLR and ¼" TRS (jack) inputs/outputs are joined by four preamps and a sturdy metal chassis that guarantees durability even on stage or when recording outdoors.
| Specifications | |
| 24-bit/192 kHz USB 2.0 interface | |
| Four Class AB mic preamps |
|
| 6 input channels | |
| Metal chassis | |
| MIDI input and output | |
| ASIO, Core Audio and WDM compatible | |
| Cubase AI included | |
| iPad compatible | |
| Built-in VST 3 DSP plug-ins | |
| Zero-latency monitoring | |
| Suggested retail price: €349 | |
| Distributed by: Steinberg |
Sturdy, quality components. Four Neutrik combo analog inputs with peak LEDs and switchable +48V phantom power provide enough inputs to connect all kinds of devices, from electric guitars to line-level audio gear, as well as high-end, mid-range and entry-level condenser microphones. Thanks to switchable Hi-Z support, you no longer need to connect an extra DI box to record your electric guitar or bass.
Two additional line inputs let you connect more audio sources. So, together with the four mic preamps, you have a total of six input channels to handle a wide range of recording situations. It offers zero-latency monitoring with DSP-based effects so you can record the dry signal while applying compression, EQ, reverb and virtual guitar amps in the headphone reference mix. And if you work with Cubase, all these functions are integrated into its mixer and can be edited in a separate Cubase window. As you would expect, it has MIDI in and out for keyboards, master instruments or pad controllers.
For bands: Mobile and flexible. Record live performances, produce studio-quality work at home or in a hotel room, pre-produce your next album in the rehearsal room, play backing tracks during a gig, etc. Enjoy the audio quality and professional components, compatible with any studio environment, of this mobile interface that will go with you wherever you go.
Project studios. Although smaller project studios don't need a large analog console with dozens of inputs, they do want excellent audio quality and the ability to record several musicians, singers and other audio sources. In addition to the phantom power for condenser mics mentioned above, the unit has several outputs, which lets you connect several pairs of monitors for comparative listening while mixing.
Perfect for the stage. Thanks to the independent headphone outputs with individual volume controls, one band member can preview the next song, while other musicians and the FOH mix engineer get two separate stereo mixes from the four individual line outputs. The lighting system can be connected to the MIDI I/O to sync the stage lights with the music. According to Steinberg, "the ultra-stable drivers, the rugged metal chassis and the robust adapter, which ensures a stable power supply, make the UR44 a perfect and highly reliable solution for bands and performers who play live."
As far as ISP Music is concerned, we highlight the unit's stability as well as its carefully crafted metal finish, well suited to the rigors of gigging. We remind you that working with original software is practically essential to keep your units, sync and entire system stable and crash-free.
Professional recording with the iPad. Following the trends and the large number of users who want to use their iPads as control surfaces, the UR44 could not be left behind. You can connect the unit to the iPad (version 2 or later) and use it as a mobile interface for iPad apps such as Cubasis, Steinberg's compact multitouch sequencer. This way you can produce while traveling or sketch out musical ideas before you forget them. Then open your Cubasis projects in Cubase on your Mac or PC and keep working on your song using the same audio interface. Pretty cool, right?
Conclusions. In recent years dozens of interfaces have appeared for this purpose. But once you have explored your options and needs, it seems like a good idea to go for something a bit more flexible than the basics, durable, with quality preamps and no latency. The UR44 is a step beyond beginner hardware and, indeed, can be used in a variety of applications thanks to its finish and stability. We highlight the metal chassis, the option of connecting two pairs of monitors, its four input preamps and the guarantee of a well-known brand that works.
We think the price is reasonable, considering its 6 inputs and features. Now it's up to you to decide against its competitors.
