Steinberg UR12 Review

Are you looking for a reliable and versatile audio interface? Look no further than the Steinberg UR12!

This tiny yet powerful device is perfect for both home studios and mobile recording.

With its 24-bit depth and a maximum sample rate of 192 kHz, the UR12 offers a dynamic range of 101 dB (A-weighted) and a Class-A D-PRE microphone preamp with a gain range of +10 dB to +54 dB.

You can be sure of capturing high-quality audio with this device.

So, if you’re looking for a reliable and versatile audio recording solution, the UR12 is a great choice!

Key Takeaways

  • The Steinberg UR12 is a reliable and versatile audio interface with a maximum sample rate of 192 kHz and a dynamic range of 101 dB (A-weighted).
  • It features a Class-A D-PRE microphone preamp with a gain range of +10 dB to +54 dB, providing transparent and neutral sound performance.
  • The interface offers two XLR and 1/4 inch inputs with dedicated gain controls, as well as LED lights to indicate signal clipping.
  • With its small and well-built design, the Steinberg UR12 is suitable for both home studio and mobile recording setups, and it also includes a headphone output and loopback function for zero-latency streaming.

I/O and Controls

What controls does the Steinberg UR12 offer?

Located on the front panel are XLR and 1/4 inputs with dedicated gain controls, LED lights to indicate clipping in the signal, and a headphone output.

On the rear panel is a 5V DC socket, power switch, and USB 2.0 socket. Additionally, the XLR input has a 48V phantom power switch.

The UR12 provides plenty of control options for users to take advantage of.

Recording Quality

Moving on to recording quality, the UR12 has an A/D resolution of 24-bit depth and a maximum sample rate of 192 kHz, which provides enough headroom for most scenarios. It has a dynamic range of 101 dB (A-weighted), which is good for a unit in this price range, but some other interfaces may perform better.

Pros include a transparent and neutral performance from the Class-A D-PRE microphone preamp with a gain range of +10 dB to +54 dB.

Cons include a lack of serious issues but no standout features compared to other units in the same price range.

Preamps

Continuing from the recording quality, the UR12 features a Class-A D-PRE microphone preamp, providing a transparent and neutral performance. The preamp offers a gain range of +10 dB to +54 dB, which is sufficient for most scenarios.

Overall, the preamp performance is adequate, but not the best in its price range. There are no serious issues with the preamp, but the gain range may not be enough for more demanding applications.

However, with its transparent and neutral sound, the UR12’s preamp offers good value for the money.

At Home Studio

For the home studio, the UR12 is an ideal choice due to its small and well-built design. It features two XLR and 1/4 inch inputs with dedicated gain controls, LED clipping indicators, a headphone output, and a rear panel 5V DC socket, power switch, and USB 2.0 socket. Its simple and straightforward interface makes it easy to use, especially for beginners.

One of the standout features of the UR12 is its convenient loopback function for zero-latency streaming. This allows for seamless recording and playback without any noticeable delay.

In terms of recording capabilities, the UR12 offers a 24-bit depth and a maximum sample rate of 192 kHz. It also has a dynamic range of 101 dB (A-weighted) and a Class-A D-PRE microphone preamp with a gain range of +10 dB to +54 dB.

Mobile Recording

Building on its small and portable design, the Steinberg UR12 is perfect for mobile recording, allowing users to capture audio on the go with their iOS devices. The lightweight unit provides users with convenient portable options and is compatible with iOS devices, making it easy to record wherever inspiration strikes.

The UR12 has a loopback function for zero-latency streaming, so users can easily capture their ideas without any delay. The two inputs can also be set to record to either the left or right channel, providing users with more flexibility.

The UR12 is a great choice for users who want to record on the go without sacrificing sound quality.

Pros & Cons

Seconding the idea of mobile recording, the UR12 also comes with its own set of pros and cons.

Advantages include:

  • Lightweight and portable design
  • Compatibility with iOS devices
  • The ability to capture inspiring moments from anywhere
  • Simple and straightforward interface, suitable for beginners
  • Loopback feature for zero-latency streaming

Disadvantages of the UR12 include:

  • A/D resolution of 24-bit depth and maximum sample rate of 192 kHz, which may not be sufficient for some users
  • Adequate, but not the best preamp performance in its price range
  • Lack of the same level of headroom as other units in the same price range

Summary

Overall, the Steinberg UR12 is a good choice for those looking for a basic audio interface. It has the features and quality to get the job done, while its small size and portability make it ideal for mobile recording.

With its Class-A D-PRE microphone preamp, 24-bit depth, and 101 dB dynamic range, the UR12 provides enough headroom and clarity for most recording scenarios. Compared to other units in its price range, it may not be the best performer, but it still offers an adequate performance.

Its pros and cons make it suitable for beginners in the home studio, as well as those looking for an audio interface to take on the go.

Conclusion

The Steinberg UR12 is an ideal audio interface for both home studios and mobile recording.

It’s easy to use, with convenient features like a Class-A D-PRE microphone preamp, LED lights to indicate clipping, and a dynamic range of 101 dB (A-weighted).

Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned artist, the UR12 is a great choice that won’t let you down.

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