DON’T BUY ONE OF THESE! Universal Audio Vs Focusrite
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- Опубліковано 11 чер 2024
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 VERSUS the Universal Audio Volt 2. Which one is the king of the budget-friendly audio interface arena? And which one do I recommend you don't buy?
The UA Volt 2 Vintage Mode and the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 AIR Mode are demonstrated on voice and acoustic guitar, featuring the @AustrianAudioVideos OC818 condenser microphone.
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#Volt2VSScarlett2i2 #BuyingAnAudioInterface #UniversalAudioVsFocusrite
CHAPTERS:
0:00 Universal Audio Volt 2 VERSUS Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
0:41 Similarities
1:49 Specification Comparison Chart
2:12 Round Trip Latency Chart
3:00 AIR Mode & VINTAGE Mode
4:43 Air Mode VS Vintage Mode on Acoustic Guitar
7:02 Monitor Outputs
8:12 Headphone Amplifiers
9:24 Powering a Shure SM7b
10:13 Additional Software
10:33 Which Do I Think Is Better? - Розваги
![ПОЛНАЯ ИСТОРИЯ ЭКЗОРЦИЗМА [Топ Сикрет]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/qBySr6Bt0B8/mqdefault.jpg)
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In 2022 sound quality is basically a wash. The preamps and converters on these things are 95% identical from a utility standpoint. Write and record great music and don't spend any energy on which sounds marginally better. Your listeners certainly won't care.
Can’t argue with that. Music listeners won’t but UA-cam viewers definitely will 😜🤘
@@EdThorne Ha, fair enough.
Too true Hermy
To be honest with you…. I think music sounds better when it feels/sounds a bit antiquated.
The Focusrite is better because my favourite color is red
What's with the "Don't buy one these in the title"? For click bait? Sounds like you gave them both a good review.
We use multiple Scarlett 2i2 for audio editing at multiple locations. We record with several 8-channel RME, Focusrite and Presonus. There isn't a big difference.
you are right, i have also tried several including rme, apollo, ssl and focusrite never failed me in terms of software and durability, it has gotten me out of trouble many times.
yes , i sold my apollo 8 quad , for a scarlett focusrite and i have been able to get better sound out of the scarlett than before when it works with other top interfaces on the market , i have learned through 30 years of producing career that sometimes one as a producer is it limits a lot in musical productions or in post-production for audiovisuals, when using a certain piece of equipment in an ecosystem as closed as that of apollo and I cannot exploit the full potential of a musical production, for my focusrite it has not failed me in compatibility, software , resistance to take it wherever you want without worrying about damaging it , for my focusrite very reliable.
Yes the scarlett focusrite is the best interface of the market
what about latency?
@@IgneelS11 I would like to know this as well.
I'm listening on studio monitors, and I have to say that the Scarlett "Air Mode" was my favorite, and I really couldn't hear a difference between the two "dry" modes". The "vintage" mode actually sounded a little dull. These are obviously just my opinions.
The air mode is just an eq. U can put it manually. It isnt equal to isa one preamp
@@dr34m-r20 And your point is?
@@spikesguitarcamp his point is .. if you have a daw then you can simply eq it in to sound like air for free. So it's a trashy gimmick of no real value.
Thank you very much for this great review: not only I was able to hear a clear demo comparison, like the guitar one you did, but also the technical comparison was very clear and informative. This and other reviews help me choosing between the two (I got a Volt).
Oh, wow! You’re my first Super Like donator - THANK YOU very much!! I’m glad the video helped 🙂🤘
@@EdThorne which is better for vocals , please I need to know?
As with all audio products, it’s how you use. An interface doesn’t discriminate against different instruments. However, the compressor on the Volt 276 and Vintage mode on this model do enhance vocals nicely.
It depends on the use, for portability, a USB powered interface seems better to me, and the converters nowadays are much less the weak link in your chain than a decade or two ago, plus all of them come with nice software. and External DSP importance is falling two with the newer Ryzen and M1 chips anyway, depending on the price difference I can really relate on buying a UAD device, so for low budget I'd go for Focusrite, for mid a UAD Volt, for small device but better budget, an RME most likely.
Thanks for your clear direct and honest review. You ran it down very well. Only Focusrite set back for me was the old usb female input which has finally completely stopped working. Even with Focusrite changing to gen 3 usb c input , I want to try the Volt now .
I am a very basic user, and I love my Scarlet 2i2 and I never really did a research to see whether there were other brands for available. It seems to work really well for my vocals, guitar and speakers.
for most users, I believe the scarlett line is perfectly fine. As an audio engineer though, I've had my share of problems with their interfaces from the old sapphire to the scarletts. I actually own a scarlett 4i4 that lives in my backpack as a backup.
There are a lot of other brands available and quite a few quality "entry level" products like the scarlett. Audient is an excellent option, in my opinion
@@O_pai_fpvwhat kind of problems did you have with Scarlett?
I have both and I noticed right away that the Line Out from the Volt 2 to my Neumann KH120 monitors had a different sound. Mostly rounder, with the highs less crispy than what I heard from the Scarlett. I also really love the premium feel to the Volt 2 knobs and the lights that indicate the audio output peaking/loudness.
Any differences between the volt 2 and volt 276?
@PNWGuitar The compressor…
I have always read very good feedback on the Roland audio interfaces, in particular the Quad and Octa-Capture. It would be nice to have a review of them.
I have used the octa-capture it is very good, it has a very balanced sound with good definition, but after a while the buttons began to fail, I ended up selling it
I did not like it, and it is true the buttons are of poor quality
Nice video. Thank you. It was great hearing the Air circuit on acoustic. Really nice. And also the Austrian mic was mmmmmm. 🔥
Cheers Ed, finally sat down and had a watch. I gotta do something about that double-chin! Nice to catch up and hang out mate :)
Ha. I didn’t even notice, I was too mesmerised by your playing 😘 Thanks again for playing in the video!
Thank you! Do you feel the Volt is overall better than the Arturia Minifuse 4?
Thank you for your great presentation. I learned a lot just in 11mins. 👍🏽
In this comparison the Arturia Minifuse is missing. I have it and it is cheaper than the other 2 plus it has a mixer for direct monitoring as well as an integrated USB hub. It also works fine on the iPad Air without the need of an additional power supply.
I reached to Arturia but never heard back.
Alot of these budget sound interfaces contain similar chip sets. The main difference is in features and build quality. My point is they are all good at this budget end.
Compared to 10-15 years ago, the low cost interfaces available now are unreal, especially for the price!
That being said my Scarlett Solo 3rd gen has excellent build quality. The knobs feel just as solid as my $1000 dj mixer
Im trying to talk into my Pioneer DDJ-FLX 4 controller (with external microphone of course) while I DJ. Is that sound card good enough or would you guys recommend one of these two interfaces as discussed?
To me, the midi-interface on the Volt makes it a much more attractive option than the Scarlett 2i2. I don't get why so many budget interfaces have dropped midi these days. There are plenty of musicians out there still using synthesizers without USB, so not having midi on the audio interface means having to spend extra money on a dedicated midi-interface. That's like a €60 added value if we go by the price of a Roland USB midi interface.
Oh waow, thanks for the tip man! My particular situation actually would have required that anyhow, so much appreciated ❤️
nowadays, you can buy a MIDI-USB cable for 5 bucks only. its very easy, plug and play and same latency. but i get your point.
Yes and my synth cost 600 bucks so I don't want to bin it or buy a new one that's twice the price and half as good, which is the other option.
@@LTPottenger why would you bin it, when a USB to midi adapter is a very cheap purchase?
Great information source. I'm a novice and I independently narrowed my choices to the Volt and Focusrite but wanted an expert opinion...........this is where ED came in. Do you have a more detailed video of either?
Thanks, Jorge. I’m glad the video was helpful. I have a whole playlist of interface reviews and comparisons, including many videos featuring these two: ua-cam.com/play/PLPGp5cq-hMjzcuVrYrnbZUbZ39nqFWpeb.html
Great video, but this comment section is gold in terms of thoughts on the interfaces, really informative
I would like to see the Volt compared to the more expensive Apogee Symphony Desktop in quality of sound. I have an older Apogee that might not be compatible with the MacBook M1 Max I’m getting, so I’m interested in a really good interface.
They’re in very different price leagues. An Apogee/Apollo might be a fairer comparison. I’ve reached out to Apogee’s distributors a few times about reviews to no avail…
@@EdThorne They know that you will tell the truth about their products. That Volt might be good in sound as my older Apogee interface. I’ll be able to find out this summer. I already heard the Scarlet 2i2 yesterday. My Apogee sounds better, but not $1,000.00 better. Good mixing skills would make them equal. My Apogee just sounds bigger in frequency.
A comparison like this between the volt 2 and the audient or the SSL 2 would be awesome. I can't decide between those as a guitarist/vocalist and the volt seems quite complete with all the midi stuff added
This video is in production, featuring those interfaces and the M2. Be out next Tuesday hopefully.
Due to the A Class Preamp in Audient's Interfaces you should expect a better/ sweeter/ preciser amplification on your microphones with their id series
@@Lovingdeadboy
I really like m iD4 MKII.
Even though I have UA Twin X next to it (the converters are more precise on that one, but the sound is more sterile).
@@gaborkiss1425 absolutely agree, i got an ApolloX8 to get clear daad through my externals RVBs and stuff. Absolutely in love with their DAC applied on my Monitor output and their unisson technology on my inputs
@@Lovingdeadboy They a price for it, but it shows.
Since I changed my PC, I have terrible ground loop issues with my current Focusrite Scarlett (I hear PC activity, especially GPU ; even at 0 volume). I'm considering buying a self-powered interface, as the Volt 1 or 2, but I don't know if the direct powering (with a 5V transformer) reduces PC ground loops, compared to the USB bus powering, on those specific interfaces (the manual seems to talk about direct powering as very situational). Any idea?
The volt has a separate power supply which is necessary when connecting to an I pad since the I pad doesn’t have enough power to run the Volt 2. That was the deciding factor for me in purchasing another brand. Being a novice recorder I’m starting with Garage Band as a DAW.
Good shout. This is a detail to forgot to mention in the video. I believe the iPad Pro is powerful enough to power both devices though.
That sucks.
UA put out bus-powered interfaces in the past (Arrow, Apollo Solo).
@@gaborkiss1425 This is bus powered….
You can use a powered usb hub to power both the iPad and audio interface
What amazes me is how good everything in this video sounds on my iPhone 11 Pro at 4 inches from my face! I have the Scarlett and am happy with it for my simple needs. Nice vid!
I use some Yamaha studio monitors and the sound is much better than when it comes from a tiny speaker.
I have the Scarlett 2i2, and honestly considering switching to the UA Volt 2, I'm dealing with a ground loop buzz issue with the Scarlett going into my THR30ii amp, I'm hoping with the Volt 2, having its own 5vDC power port, ordered a Ground Loop Noise Isolator, but I'm worried it'll some how color the audio some how so I'm thinking about being sure and just making the switch, that is, if having a power source that isn't through the same cable the audio source is coming through, would fix that.
Did it ever work?
@@alldayhiphop6537 Yes, the BESIGN Ground Loop Noise Isolator, surprisingly worked.
I had a question i recently bought the volt audio interface 1, but the the usb cable is to short. Do you have any other recommendation on which usb could go good with the interface any usb c to a?.
I have a line 6 tone port UX2. do you think it's interesting to use a Universal Audio Volt 2 ?
I'm buying the Volt 1 because all I need is a DAC with volume control and balance output. Having a separate power then the USB is a big advantage if you are using it in a USBSwitch
Hello would you advise me the volt 2 or SSL 2 t? res objectively according to your feedback and experience which is the best thank you in advance for your answer
Watch this space for a comparison of these, and two other very popular interfaces coming soon!
I chose to get the Volt over the Scarlett because of the MIDI jacks and on/off switch. Those extra features determined my choice.
For me, the only negative about the Volt 2 is that it doesn't have line inputs, it's only mic/instrument inputs. So if I want to connect my outboard tube preamp and compressor, I would have to route it in some way that changes those line-level outputs into mic or instrument-level signals going into the interface which I don't really want to do. It's cool that the Volt has MIDI in/out but most MIDI stuff these days are USB so I probably wouldn't use them. Both seem like great choices but I'm leaning slightly toward the Scarlett for what I need.
So get the Volt 4 👌
According to this video, you can use line level inputs. Basically, just turn off the INST and 48V buttons.
ua-cam.com/video/0D0sp3gnYRM/v-deo.html
Really useful comparison Ed for these entry level contenders . Btw looking well Holiday? also love the Piano backing track you used on this great choice..
Thanks, Ricky. Yeh, had a break from YT and a trip to the Caribbean🔥 The background music is from Epidemic Sounds 👌
@@EdThorne Hi Ed thx for sharing w us.
I know have 3 interfaces and need to sell one which should I get rid of? SSL2+, FOCUSRITE CLARIET USB W AIR MODE, APOGGEE ELEMENT 46
@@TyKingsSon Oooh, tough show down. I’d keep the Clarett and decide between the other two on a resale value vs functionality decision based on what features you need.
Now have typo...
@@EdThorne Sweet what island? I grew up in Antigua 🇦🇬
The biggest difference for me when I upgraded my 2i2 1st gen to the Apollo X Twin was the mic pre. My scarlet couldn’t really preamp my sm57 that well. Then I’d have to run it thru an eq and compressor, etc
With the Apollo, I run the compressor on the unison preamp, eq to the mix and done.
Yeh man. The Apollos are so powerful if you use them like you are!
Use mine the same way, absolutely love it. Won't be looking back for sure.
Sorry can someone explain more what makes the Apollo X Twin so much better for 5x the price? Thanks!
Love my 4i4. Though i did have a 2i2 through about 3 generations. Very good interfaces.
the scarlett is a stellar dac though, even outshining some of the actual dedicated dacs in the audiophile world, how does the volt hold up as a dac when just listening to music through it? because quality out will let you also have quality in.
The Scarlett uses the same mass produced converter chips as every other budget interface in the world. Those are every bit as good as most top-of-the-line DACs from 20 years ago, so it's nothing to complain about, but I wouldn't call it a meaningful difference.
Hello, I've got a question.
I have a PreSonus Audiobox iTwo and I'm consideting upgrading (I feel like the mic preamp is not ok, other people have reported problems too).
Do you think I should go to either of those two interfaces, or should I check something else?
Check out one of these: ua-cam.com/video/W8JFMyJKHfY/v-deo.html
Or I always suggest the Apollo Twins if you can stretch your budget.
Using budget studio headphones, I turned my head to not know which of the two were being used under a dry signal. The volt sounded better to my ears.
I bought a Scarlett 2i4 First gen back when I wanted to get into making music maybe 6-7 years ago, but I have not really started yet since other life stuff got in the way. Now I feel very excited and motivated to finally learn about music production et.c. In todays standards, does my old 2i4 1st gen "hold up" to todays interfaces or do I need to upgrade to something like these ones? Its obviously for budget home studio use and mostly used to record D.I guitars+bass and some vocals I suppose.
You probably wouldn’t notice a difference. The converters are slightly better on these newer models but you’d be hard pushed to hear it. Good luck with your new music journey.
@@EdThorne Thank you so much for your reply! I really appreciate it :)
NIce comparison video, thanks. Have enjoyed my Audient ID 14 which suddenly stopped registering on my MacBook Air M1. Despite updating firmware, etc. and troubleshooting with tech support, I suspect it is and internal or hardware issue in the unit and not worth fixing. I'm on the hunt for a replacement. My travel rig for Voice Over made by CEntrance is amazing!! It even has a built in limiter. It's my main right now and super easy to use - flawless - , but might go with the Focusrite due to the 'air' mode for my home studio. Hoping it won't amplify pesky sibilants, however.
This maybe an obvious question but did you try a different USB cable/USB port? Occasionally on my M1 I have had to restart the computer because it’s stopped recognising the USB ports.
I got the volt 2 and it sounded great, but after a while drop outs and outages would creep in. I exchanged it for another model, thinking it faulty...same problem. I've swapped it for the Focusrite which I've worked to death for the last two days...no issues
Did you try updating firmware and driver?
@@WindPortal yes all of those...I replaced the unit too
@@keithbutler2222funny, I’m having this issue but with w a focus rite
@@black_deus oh that's a shame...clicks pops and dropouts?
Great Video Ed 😃
Thanks, Doug! 😊🙏
I personally had a weird experience with the Volt - and it’s intermittent… but my tempo when playing back various audio through either Spotify, Music (iTunes), or even Ableton. The interface will actually slow the tempo down when playing back audio as normal… I had never actually had this problem before // haven’t seen anyone else post about it with the Volt - previously had the Motu M4 and never had an issue like this.
Super old comment but I have this issue with my Scarlet all the time! It slows it down to almost comedic lengths so I have to restart spotify
I need high loudness
What sound card do you suggest for very high loudness??
I do not need sound card for record!!
And I mostly need a sound card that is good for mixing and mastering
Especially for loudness
Please guide me to buy a suitable sound card
thank you❤❤
For mastering you probably want the best conversion possible. Loudness isn’t really an issue, all interfaces have loud line-outputs. It’s the dynamic range of the converters that’s important. The Black Lion Audio Revolution and Antelope Zen series have great converters. Or go for a specialist DAC unit.
@@EdThorne thank you
Now I know what to look for
Thank you so much
As expected, extremely close.
What matters more?
1. PERFORMANCE
2. Mic choice
3. Mic placement
4. Room
Very true. Plus: 5. Instrument. 6. Player. 7. Gain Structure. 8. Mixing. 9. The Song. 10. Mastering
Why does the Scarlett 2i2 gen 3 have such different latency?
I have the Scarlet 18i8 gen2 and by Cubace > 48Khz these are my latency:
16 > 4.8ms
32 > 5.4ms
64 > 7.8ms
128 > 14.5ms
254 > 25.8ms
I just buy a unite of Universal Audio Volt 476 and his sound is amazing! on the headphones sounds clear and louder than previos Focusritte i had (clarett 8 pre).
The carett 8 pre is much better, on another league.....Ignorant
Hi, I have my first GEN 2i2 since ages now, primarly so I can use a couple of balanced Yamaha Monitors as an everyday audio system. Sometimes I've recorded stuff, but so far it's just a hooby. My question is: does the Scarlett third GEN, or some new Interfaces like MOTU2 or this VOLT be a substantial upgrade?...I kind of like the MIDI port, the USB C connection and just to slightly upgrade, the thing is down here in Argentina even budget interfaces can get pretty expensive, thanxs in advance!
They’re not substantial upgrades. I’d jump to an Apollo if you can stretch to it. That’s a noticeable upgrade for sure, in every department.
@@EdThorne thanxs man
Between Volt and Minifuse (Minifuse being cheaper) wich one do you recomend for a mixing and mastering work/>?
Hi there. I haven’t tried the Arturia interface so I can’t reliably comment. What I would say if you’re looking at mastering is get a device with the best converters you can afford. The Focusrite Clarett+ or Apollo Twin Xs have great converters.
Why does the caption say "don't buy" them?
clickbait
ive found the scarlett to work great on mac but be HORRIBLE on windows. all sorts of artifacts and bs. i wonder how the UA is regarding that.
Sorry if my question is a bit silly as I'm new to these stuff. How do I test if my computer audio output is clipping before fed to the speakers? Is there a way to test it?
If you’re on a Mac you can view the output display in Preferences/Sound.
@@EdThorne I'm on Windows.
The first thing you have to do is look at all the "volume" controls in the signal chain and determine which ones are really volume controls, and which ones are gain controls. Volume controls are on output side of a component and gain controls are on the inputs. Once you have that figured out, any problems you have with regards to distortion/clipping have to be dealt with using the gain controls. Volume controls can't distort the signal, only gains can. Reduce gain until the distortion/clipping goes away, then use volume controls to achieve the desired loudness.
If you need the Midi then definitely go with the Volt. I already have multiple usb midi controllers, but I know many people with electric pianos that only have the midi out option. Price wise, I've always found that the Focusrite was a bit cheaper. For example, Amazon has the 2i2 for 148 and the Volt 2 for 163 right now.
I have been very happy with my behringer U-PHORIA UMC204HD which cost half as much money as these 2 and so quiet and much better than the Presonas Firestudio which I had before - it was very noisy
All Interfacers are great.. I've been in many studios and seen the top and best Producers use the cheapest interfaces and make hits.. It's mostly about the Mics, the Plugin and the hardware they have connected to it. i use the Presonus Studio One and also the Apollo..
Also speakers
The song matters most…..a bad song is bad regardless of how it’s recorded
@@andysixxlett2632 not entirely true. ive been in sessions where the artist has layed down some terrible songs come back the next day and somehow the engineer made it into a banger. people dont give engineers anywhere near enough credit for what comes out today. 90% of the top artists have fairly terrible vocals, the amount of live performances ive been to that just sound so bad compared to the studio mix is crazy. its almost like all the talent these days is in the mix and mastering side not the actual performance of it.
@@taylorcliff6609 Agreed. I make a connection to musical education here. This is in danger of turning into a grumpy old man "kids today" comment, so I'll try to watch it. I think too few people with musical ambitions take the time to learn and train before jumping into recording. It's a bit like trying to drive a race car before having learned how to make a correct turn.
@@JohannesLabusch dont ever think that being part of an older generation means there is no merit to your wisdom. there is no such thing as a grumpy old man, only ignorant young people have made that a term. as a fresh 30 yr old i see it from both sides and can say with confidence that i want someone older sitting in my sessions. not only for their expertise but also their life wisdom. ive been in recording sessions with a lot of dudes coming into their 50s and 60s and its such a good experience. they are patient and genuinely show more love for the art no matter what. ive sat there with young producers and engineers who refused to do what i want/ask because they have this weird chip on their shoulder. the older guys didnt care, they listened to my bulshit for 8 hours and a complete album was the bi product of being made comfortable.
much love to you.
sorry for the tangent.
I've heard some people had problems with the volt 2 glitching/popping/cracking. Is this a common problem? I'm considering to buy one, but it's holding me back.
The likely cause for this is A) PC drivers, and/or B) un-synced sample rates between computer and device (again, usually only on PCs). I’ve not had a problem on my MAC.
Just bought the scarlet sound is bomb air mode is cool but i always prefer a low down dirty heavy thick old school vocal that’s volt provides
How does the Presonus studio 24c perform compared to these two?
Hi, if one had a higher budget for home interface use. Which would you recommend ?
UA Apollo all the way.
Does the Volt come with a DC adapter? I'm asking, because I'm using my Focusrite on a USB hub and it makes issues sometimes, because the Focusrite is only USB powered, while I noticed the Volt has a DC input. Can the Volt be USB powered only, without external DC adapter?
Yes, it comes with a power supply so you can use the USB-C port to connect to an iPad/phone for iOS recording. It is also bud powered via the USB-C port if needed.
@@EdThorne But I guess I can use the power adapter on PC as well?
Hi friends, what do you think about Presonus iostation 24c against MOTU M4 and SSL2+?.
The focusrite solo third gen, is awesome I love it.
I just purchased a volt interface on a whim. I figured "I can finally afford a universal audio product" seems like it might have been a good choice. Hopefully when the Sweetwater delivery gets here I'll have a similar experience
How is it?
@@ItsTheMajorScalebro works great I use a 16 ch tascam for tracking. For some reason it seems like overdubs periodically get out of sync. I think the 16 channels has just got the processor too busy. So I use the UA for overdubs, and it sounds better than the tascam's pre's. Definitely the best mic preamps I have used aboard an inexpensive interface.
Volt is better, and my opinion is better than most😜
Both links to Volt2 (Sweetwater and Thomann) link to the Volt276 rather than Volt2, just heads-up
My apologies. I shall amend. Thanks for the comment.
The monitor outs on the Volt interfaces are also CV gates.
Will the Scarlett solo be able to drive the Beyerdynamic DT 770 80ohms well?
Yes.
why does the volt have a electric input? I thought it ran on USB-C? I notice 2 cables come in the box?
So you can power the device whilst using the USB-C connection to record to an iOS device.
Your really selling the Volt for me. I’m coming from a Yeti looking to upgrade so I might be able to break into VO work. The yeti is great for its intended use but it falls short when you start wishing your budget could fit a 416. 🤣
Air mode on on Focusrite introduce Hamonics minor but present alongside EQ curve..
Switched from focustite to volt hella better now I got no problems at all
Ok so I was debating on these two beast interface for live performance using AL after watching this I think I’m going to stick with Focusrite I already have a twin as my main set up!!!
9:37 i have the scarlet solo myself, and it can power the SM7B somewhat fine, but ur running the gain pretty much maxed out. so i would add as i have done, i have an Gear4Music just basic MB1 cloudlifter/ Mic Booster, on the line so instead of having my gain maxed out im running it about 25 to 50 % gain instead of like 95%, their like 25 bucks and suprisingly they work very well for their price
and fyi, I mainly use it for voice recordings for gameplay, so i dont excatly shout into this thing, but if ur screaming like some death metal or something u 'll probly get away without an cloud lifter
Hi.
Can i use this focusrite for concert? I want more or less decent sound, better than default laptop audio out. Also sound recording.
I want this: laptop -> focusrite -> audio mixing console (f.e. Yamaga MX12) -> speakers (800wt).
Which outputs to use: front side single TRS out or back side stereo pair outputs?
Also was wondering which audiocard is better: focusrite or Audioquest Dragonfly DAC?
Thank you very much
Yes you could use these interfaces live. The sockets on the front are inputs. The Volt 4 has outputs and may be better suited than just the monitor outputs on these devices.
@@EdThorne as for focusrite scarlett, can i use back TRS stereo pair to output my sound to mixing console and get decent stereo sound?
I tried the Volt and it had noticeably worst performance than my 2i2 2nd gen at the same sample/buffer settings. I also couldn't get it to preform 16 buffer size in daw like I could with the Scarlett. Maybe at 44.1 they are pretty much the same, but I prefer to write/improv at 96 with lowest latency possible, which the scarlet can handle.
I have the volt had the Scarlett and the twin x and have the opposite experience, the volts preamps sound almost on par to the twin x in my experience
What is better for an electric guitar recording?
Would love to hear how easy these were to get up and running on Windows. I just got a Presonus Studio24c and it is the worst product I have ever tried to install. Cant get it working on iOS or Windows (and I have the proper specs). I have read a lot of reviews stating the the Scarlett is a nightmare to get going on Windows. How is the Volt 2 in this aspect?
I’m a Mac guy so can’t comment on PC usage. It’s worth being on Mac for class compliance alone imo.
Did you install the PreSonus Universal Control for the 24c?
Works great for most.
@@donbaarns9223 Yeah, I installed, uninstalled, installed again probably 10 times. Talked to support, no resolution. Even tried it on my Mac and had no success. Ended up returning it. Apparently its an extremely common issue with it.
As the owner of a 16i20. Cannot say enough good things about Focusrite. Record rappers, drum
Kits, full bands and use outboard mixer in conjunction. Great company. Great piece of kit - it never leaves my top rack mount on the desk itself!
Txs a lot. ONE IMPORTANT QUESTION (Multiple):
I have the Yamaha dgx 670 piano, with a built in 16 bit/ 44.1khz audio cart. There is a built in software mixer (or whatever) on the keyboard.
So I haven't bought an audio card or a mixer but thought a lot about it.
There is usb to daw which handles both midi AND AUDIO directly.
Would it be foolish to have an external audio card or mixer? I sing too and also if i record audio from the piano, with the mic plugged in, it comes into the daw as one track: NOT TWO SEPARATE TRACKS, for respectively mic/ instrument sounds.
I read up on recording quality and wonder if I should have an audio interface/mixer to get it at 24 bit or even 32 (considerong the Steinberg Ur22c or ur24c because it has DSP FOR LIVE effects, ie. Reverb, on the card itself (so it does not get recorded: Seems like the ZOOM had that too, (i vaguely saw the word DSP).
Or should i stick with the Pianos 16 bit 44.1 khz interface? I use an Acer Nitro 5 laptop with 8gb Ram.
I am most likely purchasing a premium condenser MIC with cardiod and other patterns, but perhaps with the currrent 16 bit, 44,1khz, it won't shine as it could with high sampling depth. I know cd quality is 16/44,1. But some suggest to record at highter quality then perhaps convert. But if my laptop can handle that, i dont know.
Also there is no line out on the piano. Only a headphone/loudspeaker output. Perhaps introducing an external audio card/mixer would add more noise (or latency), plus then the midi goes through there (unless the daw handles both direct usb from piano to daw AND connection via an external interface.) So many loose ends...EDIT: CUbase does not. Maybe AUdacity or Audio desk by Motu (recommended by the Samson (Q2U) guys) motu.com/products/software/audiodesk
If anyone could help me,please. Its killing me 😕
Ps: I only need to process the piano and one/ maybe 2 mics (but I am getting a mic which can be omni or 8 figure pattern to record duets). I use Cubase ai11. I subscribed.
THe reason for preferring the Steinberg over the focusrite is that the price is similar but with the Steinberg comes the DSP direct monitored Effects.
Yes the text is long but a lot of thought went into writing it. I am sure others will find the answer helpful if any answer. Txs
Hey Dino, did you ever an answer to your questions?
@@rtosborne4 Hi RTO. I decided that the only purpose of an external audio interface, would be for having one or more mics recorded simultaneously at the same time at a higher resolution. I tested the Steinberg Audio interface and it was nice but I decided to stick with the old simpler setup, in order not to complicate things too much.
I still run two microphones through the Pianos mic inlet with some passive mic signal combiner. HOwever I can not separate them from each other which makes sense since there is only one mic input: Not two.
SO I cannot regulate the relative volume of them. MAybe later I will get some Steinberg interface anyway, if it becomes more necessary. Anyway, as mentioned, I got some high quality microphone with 8 figure and omni modes, so if for duets that'll do I think.
@@Dyonysus777 Glad to hear you got it sorted out for the time being!
need to make a more thorough comparison and see if this ranking holds:
Motu M2, Volt 2, SSL-2, Scarlett 2i2, Behringer UMC202HD, Macki Onyx 2x2, Arturia Minifuse 2, M-Audio Air 192, NI Komplete Audio 2 & RME Babyface Pro 2
Where did you get the metal shelving in the background?
I don’t know, I didn’t install them.
i bought the Steinberg one...perfect.
Instead of these two, I just bought a MOTU M2 (v2 - after 2021 version) and I am SOOOO HAPPPYY with it
hi , i've just purchased the volt176 and it's for me the best choice for the budget , Ed thx for the cool contents .
That’s great! Glad you’re enjoying it!
Hi. I think you mistakenly sais iOS instead of macOS. There are devices supported on iOS and that can be quite confusing.
Volt is supported on iOS iPhones and iPads 👌
In a nother UA-cam Video a guy said the Headphone output of the Volt compared to the apollo twin x is more weak in quality/ that the apollo twin x let you hear much more details. Do you know if thats true/ is the headphone quality of the volt really that worse?
It’s not the same HP amp as in the Apollo series. There is a level/quality difference but it’s still very good on the Volt.
@@EdThorne thank you for response.
i haven't used UA, but focusrite - it works hardly for an year, then start to show issues one by one ( USB Audio Interfaces)
I’m sorry to hear that. This seems to be a common problem, although my gen 1 still works.
am i just paying for a pre amp?
cuz i already have the Golden Age Project Pre-73
i wont be using the preamp features on these interfaces
i just need a great interface
Sounds like your main concern is conversion. The only interfaces (I’m aware of) that you can bypass the preamps but still use the inputs for conversion is the Apollo Xs. Or maybe a stand alone converter unit but they’re often multi-I/O making them very expensive.
@@EdThorne thank you for your reply! ill look into that tonight
Say Less you made it all better for me to really to buy the Volt 2 because it should be perfect for me recording in mpc beats and fl studio.
The 2i2 does not have midi however the 2i4 does and it power up my sm7b and my previous akg p420 so it’s one for both. I have 1st 2i2 second gen 2i4, I don’t have the usbc feature in this video. But I do recommend my 2i4 with mono mode and audio out and midi in the back. Not sure why they cut the feature in the usbc version. U need the balance xlr though dont use the unbalanced 1/4jack.
It might be worth mentioning that the Volt does not have DSP chips built in, so if you are trying to run UAD plugins, your computer will have to do the work.
This very true 👌
@@stuff4826 why don't you teach us, master?
What would be the practical implications of this? Does this mean my laptop would be pushed a little harder by the Volt?
@@criticalbil1 Well no, not by the Volt, but by the fact that the Volt doesn't have its own processing power. So far, UADs plugins only ran on their interfaces. If you wanted to use these reverbs, compressors, preamp emulations etc., you had to use an Apollo or one of their satellites. With their new "Spark" technology, you can run them on your computer, I assume using any interface without internal DSP, including the Volt. But the advantage of DSP was that the Apollo did all the processing of those plugins, letting your computer "focus" on the actual recording. There are people who think that with the new powerful Macs, this has become obsolete, and there's no problem letting the computer do everything. I guess it depends how new your computer is. Does this help?
@@JohannesLabusch Very clear！thanks a lot
Be wary on this 2i2 model..Had a line mic XLR in an input with my sm57 and pressed phantom power by accident, it blew out the preamp completely. The sm57 line portion still works but the inst pre-amp side for 1/4 input jack is almost inaudible with max gain. Garbage.
I've used a Presonus Audiobox for 7 years and have had zero issues AND it has MIDI. It's been an amazing product.
Yeah I dunno, people on youtube seem to underrate these. I heard little about the MOTU audio interfaces until the recent M2 & M4 as well. I also like the IK Multimedia Rig if you're an electric guitarist. Far better than any of these for you in that case.
Same here. The Audiobox is great.
Me too, have had an Audiobox 96 for years ad it has served me well. I'm giving it to my 14 yo son, who recently got into beat making so I'm going to move to a Volt 2 for my portable solution; I like what I'm hearing about the Volt.
In my opinion, the UA VOLT sounds slightly more musical than the Focusrite Scarlett.
I don’t get the title of the video.
The volt 2 sounds better I've owned both but I screwed up. When you put those together it sounded great
I recorded my album using a cheap m-audio from 2005 and published in 2017 in vinyl, everybody was amazed by the sound. Get a cheap sound card, but just don't buy the cheapest and don't go too crazy about it. Focus on making good music.
Uad thank you for the midi inputs
I used a scarlet solo for years, the headphone monitor out wasn't working for about a year and I just replaced it with a behringer umc204hd. The difference in sound quality was shocking to me. The behringer was so much clearer and seemed to be more dynamic as well, guitar and mic. Also the amount of i/o and options on this compared to any other brand at the same price is not even comparable.
something that I thought after using it for about a week or so is that focusrite is the "apple" of interfaces and behringer is the android, i have no idea where UA fits in but it's too expensive for me anyways lol
@@justinbouchard I disagree, i believe M-Track Duo sounds way better than the UMC absolutely
@@justinbouchard It does not only record a little bit clearer but also improves a lot on the low end.
@@TheSideProject how bored are you? This video was comparing Scarlett to UA audio volt, my comment compared my Scarlett to my umc 204. I have no idea what m track duo is, nor how you somehow took my comment and created this scenario in your head where I compared anything to an m track audio.
@@TheSideProject I had to look it up. I cannot believe you're coming here out of fucking nowhere comparing an Amazon interface to Behringer.
Clean your house or something if your this bored.