Universal Audio VOLT2 USB Audio Interface for recording, podcasting and streaming

Product Information

Desktop 2-in/2-out USB audio interface with class-leading 24-bit/192 kHz audio conversion for Mac, PC, iPad, and iPhone The new joint offering comes less than 150 days since Virgin Media O2 launched, building on the company’s momentum of almost 13 million gigabit premises passed and 5G coverage from O2 expanded to 210 locations. Volt highlights Virgin Media O2’s commitment to offer more choice, convenience and innovation with seamless broadband, entertainment and mobile services all available under one roof. Please note that your O2 tariff name won’t change, but your new data allowance and any changes to your roaming Bolt Ons can be seen in My O2. It could be argued that FL Studio and Ableton Live, geared more towards electronic producers, may not be the most complimentary DAW for those wanting to use the amp emulation plugins, but we’d be splitting hairs.

It does what its supposed to do, and comes with a pretty significant software bundle if you're just starting out. I use it as a midi-out/line-in recording interface and it works fine. If you're cross shopping it with the Focusrite Scarlet, I don't know if the little "vintage" button on this one really sets it apart.The first thing that sets the various models apart is the number of inputs and outputs. The Volt 1 and Volt 176 each offer one XLR/TRS combo input with a preamp for microphone, line and instrument signals, while the Volt 2 and Volt 276 have two of these. The Volt 476 offers an extra pair of line inputs on the rear panel. Vintage Mode stood out to us. The combination of the interface’s features and software makes this bundle a powerhouse, particularly given the price. First joint product gives customers the best of both brands, with even greater value on UK’s fastest major broadband provider and award winning mobile network I found that Vintage Mode was more beneficial for the dynamic mic test. The dynamic mic sounds slightly muddy. Vintage Mode opened up my voice, thus removing the slight mud from my voice when recording.

But, one of the big selling points (particularly for anyone looking to enter the world of music production) is the included software.

Simply decide on how many inputs you need to record simultaneously and whether you need more dynamic control with the addition of a built-in analog compression on the '76 versions. Based on the classic Universal Audio 610 mic pre, Vintage Preamp mode replicates the classic richness favored by many, including Van Halen and Ray Charles. Another smart move by Universal Audio! Tuning software has become somewhat of a necessity in modern production, so Celemony’s option was a great little addition to the software bundle.

In a post-covid world where we’ve all gotten used to making music at home a lot more than we used to, UA gives you an excuse never to leave your studio!

LABS by Spitfire Audio

When your household's with both Virgin Media and O2, you'll get supercharged speeds, data and WiFi. That means double the mobile data on every eligible O2 Pay Monthly plan in your household. You'll also get a broadband speed boost to the next available level (up to a max of 1Gbps). WiFi guarantee included at no extra cost and up to three WiFi pods if needed. Plus, O2 Travel Inclusive Zone, so you can roam in 75 destinations at no additional cost. Free with each Volt interface, you’ll receive a Suite of Audio Software, Virtual Instruments, Plugins and serious production tools. The Input Meters show the signal level of the input, which is controlled by the Gain knob. The red input LED lights when the input signal is near 0 dB. Tip: Clipping occurs when the signal is overloaded. When clipping occurs, the top of the waveform is squared off, creating distortion that may be unpleasant. Clipping has creative uses, but is usually avoided. To prevent clipping, adjust the gain so only green and yellow meters light, and the red LED doesn't light.

The SVT-VR is an accurate representation of the iconic bass amp and is another handy little addition, especially for anyone recording at home who doesn’t want to disturb the neighbors. Marshall Plexi Classic Amp Bundle It’s a cool idea, but I’ll be honest: I think this feature is a little over-hyped. I played around with it and didn’t feel like the setting made too much of a difference, and I ended up just using the standard, non-vintage option. If you’re evaluating a few different audio interfaces, I wouldn’t let this feature be the deciding factor. The UA Volt 2 is fantastic for novice musicians, podcasters, and streamers needing a simple yet effective audio interface to start recording.

Additional Media

When using an iPhone or iPad, simply plug the 5.5mm DC Barrel to USB Type-A cable (included) into the wall plug part of your phone/tablet charger (Volt 1/2/176/276 can use any 5V 1amp external USB PSU*). Then you can use full Volt features and run 2 channels of 48V phantom with iOS Garageband and similar iOS audio recording apps. Why are soundcards designed for left handed people? Headphones should be on the left and inputs should be on the right. Having those cables criss-crossed is annoying. Left handed people rejoyce! The Volt Series offer “best-in-class” audio quality, providing the platform to create professional-sounding music productions, live streams, and podcasts. If you’re looking for an interface to record your guitar, bass, keyboard, voice, drums or programme virtual MIDI instruments, the Volt Series has you covered.