The Behringer U-Phoria UMC202HD is a compact 2-in/2-out USB audio interface that can be operated under Windows and macOS, and offers excellent value for money. As its name indicates, it comes with high-resolution converters that can operate at sample rates of up to 24-bit/192kHz. The two input channels are equipped with high-quality microphone preamplifiers developed by the well-established British manufacturer Midas and achieve both detailed and natural recordings. With its two output channels available on balanced jacks for the main monitors, and a comprehensive headphone and monitoring section, the U-Phoria UMC202HD certainly offers an impressive range of features, especially at this price point, that will ideally cater to the budding recording enthusiast.
The Behringer U-Phoria UMC202HD's two XLR/jack combo inputs accommodate dynamic and condenser microphones, line sources like keyboards and drum synths, and high-impedance instruments like guitars and basses. Each input also features an analogue insert to connect to outboard gear (such as an analogue compressor), as well as an attenuation pad - which is impressive in this price range. A direct monitoring switch is also provided which allows monitoring at the inputs of the Behringer U-Phoria UMC202HD without any perceivable latency, an important feature when recording live vocals and instruments. The monitoring section also includes a dedicated headphone output and volume control. Status, signal, and clip indicators assist in the process.
The Behringer U-Phoria UMC202HD is an affordable USB audio interface equipped with high-quality preamplifiers and a diverse range of features that will particularly appeal to singer-songwriters and newcomers to home recording, who will appreciate the diverse connectivity options. Simple vocal and instrumental recordings can be made effortlessly with excellent results. This well-designed desktop interface will work just as well in contexts beyond the purely musical. For instance, YouTubers or podcasters seeking a more flexible alternative to a USB microphone or wishing to work with two audio channels will find the U-Phoria UMC202HD to be a great fit.
The company, which was founded in Germany by Uli Behringer and now manufactures its products in China, has been known for affordable and great-value equipment since its very first product, the Studio Exciter F. An array of mixing consoles (such as the Eurodesk MX8000), signal processors, and later sound amplification and monitoring equipment, has made it possible for countless musicians to fit out their home studios, practice rooms, and mobile PAs within budget limits that were previously unthinkable. The acquisition of other companies, including Midas, Klark Teknik, and TC Electronic, meant that new product groups were added - and also resulted in the technical expertise of these companies being incorporated into product development.
The Behringer U-Phoria UMC202HD is a great "on the road" companion. Its sturdy and compact metal casing is perfectly suited to nomadic use, requiring no additional power supply thanks to its efficient USB power operation. Ideal for mobile recording with its high-quality preamps, it excels in live situations, seamlessly playing back effects and tracks from a laptop on stage. Unlike larger audio interfaces such as the UMC204HD, the UMC202HD does not have MIDI I/O. However, this should not be a significant issue considering that many modern keyboards are equipped with a USB interface for transmitting MIDI to a computer.