Universal Audio Volt 2 Review: Hands-on insights into this budget-friendly interface with vintage tones and pro-quality preamps. Perfect for music creators!
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OUR VERDICT
The Universal Audio Volt 2 brings professional features into a more accessible price range. Recording vocals through its vintage preamp mode revealed nice harmonics that typically require external processing to achieve.
The solid metal construction and intuitive controls make it a reliable daily driver for home studios. When you need UA’s preamp quality without stretching your budget too far, the Volt 2 delivers consistent results, particularly for recording musicians and content creators who value sound quality.
Best Deal
Universal Audio Volt 2
| Key Features
- Inputs: 2x XLR/TRS/Hi-Z combo
- Outputs: 2x balanced TRS + 1x stereo headphone
- Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
- Compatibility: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
- Connectivity: USB-C (USB 2.0 compatible)
- Plus: Vintage preamp mode, Direct monitoring, Bus-powered, MIDI I/O, software bundle
| Pros
- Recording acoustic guitar and vocals simultaneously with separate gain staging
- Direct guitar recording with vintage preamp coloration
- Dual-microphone podcast setup with zero-latency monitoring
- Mobile recording with laptop power only
- High-quality audio streaming with mix-minus capability
- iPad and iOS users
| Cons
- Multi-person podcast sessions requiring separate headphone mixes
- Professional studios requiring digital I/O expansion
| Best Deal
Volt 2: A Fresh Take on Home Recording
The Volt 2 represents Universal Audio’s successful translation of their pro-audio expertise into a compact format. During vocal recording sessions, I’ve found its preamps match the quality of interfaces twice its price. While interfaces like the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 and PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 have set the standard for home recording, the Volt 2 carves its own path with unique features you’ll actually use.
The preamps deliver 60dB of gain – plenty for gaining up quiet sources like ribbon mics. What sets this interface apart is its Vintage mode, bringing UA’s analog expertise to the entry level. This feature transforms the Volt 2 from a simple audio interface into a recording tool that even seasoned engineers will appreciate.
Universal Audio Volt 2 Features
Let’s break down its standout features:
XRL/TRS/Hi-Z Input
Connect microphones, guitar, bass and other instruments
USB-C
Connect to your computer.
Balanced outputs, connect to studio monitors
Connect to yor studio monitors
Headphones Output
Real time monitoring
Direct Monitor
Hear yourself with no delay
Phantom Power
Supports condenser microphones
Vintage Mode
UA's 610 tube preamp replica
MIDI I/O
Connect virtual instruments and controllers
2x XLR/TRS/Hi-Z Combo Inputs
- What It Means for You: You can use combo inputs to connect microphones for vocals, guitar and bass directly into the interface, or keyboard and other instruments. The Hi-Z option ensures your electric guitar or bass retains its full tone and richness without distortion.
2x balanced TRS Outputs
- What It Means for You: Balanced outputs minimize hum and interference, ensuring a clean signal to your speakers.
Vintage Preamp Mode
- What It Means for You: Recording acoustic guitar or voice through the vintage UA’s 610 tube preamp replica mode adds body to the midrange and smoothed out harsh transients – effects that typically require careful EQ and compression to achieve.
Direct Monitoring
- What It Means for You: While recording vocals over dense tracks, you can dial in the perfect balance between voice and the backing track. The direct signal remained clear and immediate, essential for staying in time with the music.
24-bit/48 kHz Resolution
- What It Means for You: When recording guitar, every nuance come through clearly – from the squeak of fingers on strings to the body resonance. The high sample rate handling means you can slow down recordings for detailed editing without losing quality.
Bus-Powered Design
- What It Means for You: The MiniFuse 1 comes with a comprehensive software suite, including Ableton Live Lite, Analog Lab Intro, Guitar RIG 6 LE, Auto-Tune Unlimited Trial and Splice Creator Plan.
Best Deal
Universal Audio Volt 2
Specs Table: The Full Picture
| Feature | Specification | Practical Benefit |
|---|---|---|
Simultaneous I/O |
1 in/2 out |
For recording and monitoring |
XLR Mic Input |
1 combo input |
For mic or instrument like keyboards, synthesizers |
Hi-Z Inputs |
1 combo input |
For guitars and basses |
Line/Monitor Outputs |
2 balanced outputs |
Connection to studio monitors. |
Headphone Output |
1/4″ Jack |
Independent volume control for monitoring. |
Compatibility |
macOS, Windows, iOS |
Connect anywhere |
Preamps |
Professional High-Res |
Pro-grade quality |
Resolution |
24-bit/192kHz |
Studio quality sound. |
Phantom Power |
Yes (48V) |
Supports condenser microphones |
Direct Monitor |
Yes |
Hear yourself with no delay |
Connectivity |
USB-A/USB-C |
Extended connectivity |
Bundle Software |
Ableton Live Lite, Analog Lab Intro, Native Instruments GUITAR RIG 6 LE, Auto-Tune Unlimited Trial and Splice Creator Plan |
Complete tools for music and podcast production. |
Performance: Volt 2 in Action
Recording through the Volt 2 shows its true capabilities. The preamps handle quiet ribbon mics with minimal noise – I measured consistently clean gain up to 55dB before any noise became noticeable. Compared to my Focusrite Scarlett 2i2, the preamps deliver an extra 5dB of usable gain.
The Vintage mode transforms vocal recordings in a way that outperforms its price point. When tracking a female vocalist, switching to Vintage mode brought out chest resonance that usually requires careful EQ to achieve. Electric guitars recorded directly benefit from this mode too – the added harmonics help prevent the thin sound often associated with DI recording.
My latency tests showed consistent performance at 128 samples buffer size – about 6ms round trip in Logic Pro. The drivers remained stable through long sessions, with no dropouts or connectivity issues.
5. Design and Usability
The metal chassis weighs just enough to stay put on the desk. Each knob turns with deliberate resistance – no accidental bumps will change your settings. The wooden side panels aren’t just aesthetic; they provide solid grip points for desktop positioning.
Front panel controls follow logical signal flow, from left to right. The LED meters respond quickly to transients, making it easy to set proper gain. One thoughtful detail: the headphone jack sits on the front right corner, keeping cables away from your mouse hand.
Best Deal
Universal Audio Volt 2
Creative Tools Included
One of the standout features highlighted in this Universal Audio Volt 2 Review is the comprehensive software bundle that comes with it. This package offers a range of creative tools to kickstart your music production journey or enhance your existing setup.
LUNA Recording System (macOS)
Exclusive to macOS users, LUNA is a fully integrated recording system designed by Universal Audio. It offers seamless integration with UA hardware, providing a smooth workflow for tracking, mixing, and even virtual instrument production. With its intuitive interface and built-in analog emulation features, LUNA feels like a professional-grade DAW tailored for UA users.
Softube Marshall Plexi Classic
Guitarists will like the Marshall Plexi Classic plugin. This amp simulation recreates the legendary Marshall Plexi sound, delivering rich, dynamic tones perfect for rock, blues, and more. I particularly value the Marshall Plexi plugin – it pairs perfectly with the Hi-Z inputs for direct guitar recording. The UA Volt Bundle includes compression and EQ tools that complement the interface’s preamps. Find the Best Audio Interface for Guitar: AXE IO Full Guide 2025
Ampeg SVT-VR Classic
Bassists aren’t left out, thanks to the inclusion of the Ampeg SVT-VR Classic plugin. This virtual bass amp captures the powerful, punchy tones of the iconic Ampeg SVT, known for its deep lows and aggressive mids. Find the Best Audio Interface for Bass Guitar: Bassist’s 10 Picks 2025
UA Volt Bundle
The UA Volt Bundle includes a selection of mixing and mastering tools designed to complement the Volt 2’s pristine preamps. You’ll find essential plugins for compression, EQ, and more, making it easy to polish your recordings right out of the box. These tools are simple to use but powerful enough to deliver professional results.
Ableton Live Lite
Ableton Live Lite provides a robust introduction to the world of electronic music production. With its fast, intuitive workflow and built-in instruments, this DAW is ideal for creating beats, loops, or full songs. Whether you’re new to production or need a lightweight DAW for quick projects, Ableton Live Lite is a great addition.
Why the Software Bundle Matters
The software bundle transforms the Volt 2 from a standalone interface into a complete production package. These tools allow users to experiment with a wide range of sounds and recording techniques without needing to invest in additional plugins or software upfront.
For those considering to buy the Volt 2 audio interface should take in consideration that the combination of hardware and software makes it an exceptional value, delivering a comprehensive recording experience that stands out in its price range.
Universal Audio Volt 2 Review: Final Thoughts
The Volt 2 bridges the gap between entry-level interfaces and professional gear. Its preamps deliver clean gain when needed, while the Vintage mode offers creative coloration options. Build quality surpasses expectations at this price point, creating a device that should last through years of recording.
7. FAQ
How does the Universal Audio Volt 2 compare to the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2?
The Volt 2’s preamps provide an extra 5dB of usable gain. While both interfaces deliver clean sound, the Volt’s Vintage mode adds tonal options the Scarlett doesn’t offer. The Volt’s metal construction feels more substantia.
Can I use the Universal Audio Volt 2 with an iPad?
Yes, it works directly with iPads using a USB-C connection, or through the Camera Connection Kit for older iPads. The bus-powered design means no extra power supply needed – perfect for mobile recording.
Does the Universal Audio Volt 2 work well for streaming?
The direct monitoring feature makes it ideal for streaming – you’ll hear yourself without delay while maintaining separate control over stream mix levels. The preamps provide enough gain for dynamic broadcast mics like the Shure SM7B without an additional gain booster.
Check also: Focusrite Vocaster One: Best Audio Interface for Podcasters
Is the Vintage mode on the Universal Audio Volt 2 worth it?
The Vintage mode adds specific, measurable changes to your signal. On vocals, it introduces second-order harmonics that enhance presence. With guitars, it rounds out harsh transients and adds subtle compression – particularly useful when recording directly through the Hi-Z inputs.
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Bassist, guitarist and producer with a long history in bands, I’ve spent more than 20 years immersed in music and gear. When I’m not playing, I’m writing about audio music, studio setups, recording and everything that helps musicians sound their best.