Introduction
The Behringer U-Phoria UMC204HD is a compact audio interface designed for musicians and content creators seeking high-quality audio recording. In this review, we’ll explore its features, performance, and overall usability.
Build and Design
- Sturdy metal construction ensures durability.
- Compact and portable design for on-the-go recording.
- Front-panel layout for easy access to controls.
Audio Quality
- 24-bit/192kHz resolution for crisp and clear audio.
- MIDAS-designed preamps deliver studio-grade sound.
- Low-latency monitoring enhances real-time recording.
Connectivity
- Two combo XLR/TRS inputs for versatile instrument and microphone compatibility.
- MIDI I/O for connecting external MIDI devices.
- USB 2.0 connection for high-speed data transfer.
Ease of Use
- Plug-and-play setup for quick installation.
- Direct monitoring for zero-latency recording.
- Compatible with major recording software.
Pros
- Affordable price point for budget-conscious users.
- Solid build quality ensures longevity.
- Versatile connectivity options cater to various recording needs.
- Exceptional audio quality with MIDAS preamps.
- Compact design makes it ideal for portable setups.
Cons
- Phantom power shared between channels may limit certain microphone choices.
- Lack of dedicated gain control for the headphone output.
- USB 2.0 may be a con for users seeking USB-C compatibility.
Performance
The UMC204HD is really good at recording sound, giving you clear audio. The special preamps designed by MIDAS make the sound high-quality, picking up all the details in your voice or instruments. It has a 24-bit/192kHz resolution, making the audio meet professional standards. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user, this is a great choice for you.
Connectivity and Compatibility
The connection options on the interface are good, with two combo XLR/TRS inputs and MIDI I/O. This makes it useful for different types of recording, whether you’re working alone or with others. The USB 2.0 connection allows for quick data transfer, but if you want USB-C compatibility, you might find it a bit limited.
Build and Design
Built with durability in mind, the UMC204HD features a robust metal construction that can withstand the rigors of travel. Its compact design is perfect for those working in tight spaces or frequently on the move. The front-panel layout is intuitive, giving quick access to necessary controls.
Ease of Use
It’s super easy to get the UMC204HD up and running because you can just plug it in and start using it. The direct monitoring feature lets you record without any delays, which is really important for getting the best results in your sessions. Plus, it works well with popular recording software, making it even easier to use.
Conclusion
In summary, the Behringer U-Phoria UMC204HD is a great choice for musicians and content creators who are looking for a budget-friendly, high-performance audio interface. It’s well-built, produces impressive sound, and is easy to use. Despite some small cons like shared phantom power and no separate headphone gain control, its overall value makes it a reliable option for both beginners and experienced users.
Mason Family –
I had some trouble finding interfaces that are clearly marked for use with iOS devices such as iPhone and iPad. So I took a chance on this item to use for this. It obvious works for PC & MAC, but I wasn’t sure about iOS.
The PROS: it works great, super sturdy, sounds great, pretty easy to use, and great price for this type of interface, very low latency but has direct monitoring blend so latency isn’t even an issue anyhow
The CONS: headset volume pot is a little noisy and crackles (but only when adjusting the headset volume knob, so it’s not really an issue), and the iOS device volume needs to be at 50% or higher in order to get a playback signal back to the interface that you can actually hear. Once I figured this out, it wasn’t an issue, but at first I thought I wasn’t getting any playback audio being sent back to the interface and I spent over an hour trying to figure out what was wrong. Honestly, this may be a GarageBand software or iOS device issue anyhow, rather than anything to do with the interface. I’m not certain either way, but overall it seems to be a great unit! I have an iPhone 8, and a 5th gen iPad, and my primary DAW is Garageband.
misterg –
I’m an audiophile using the Behringer UMC204HD with Windows 10 Pro for converting my huge collection of LP’s to digital formats (literally a retirement project). The following information may be useful to someone finding the docs a bit sparse or who is using an audio interface such as this for the first time.
1 – The two front inputs are MONO (studio microphones being catered for) but can be used as Left/Right stereo pair. You’ll need an adaptor on each input to accommodate RCA connectors or for a stereo mini-plug. The mini will require a splitter (check your drugstore or supermarket electronics dept.) to provide independent L/R. It would have been nice if they’d included RCA sockets. Note you have what amounts to only ONE analog stereo input on this unit. That’s enough for me but maybe not some others.
2 – You must first download and install the Behringer drivers. Unlike Soundblaster Extigy and possibly some other units of this type, it will not work with Windows Classic Wave Driver. You’ll have poke around for the drivers at the Behringer site.
Installation is a no-brainer. Unzip the download, run the executable and you are done. You’ll also need a sound recording/playback application. Behringer claims you are entitled to a free copy of “Tracktion” but I couldn’t find it. Anyway, I have Soundforge and there are plenty of others, over a wide range of prices.
Once the drivers are installed it’s a good idea to unplug the UMC204HD, then plug it back in. Also, restart the application if you had launched it already.
3 – The Line/Inst button, when depressed, engages a microphone amp. You won’t need this for standard line inputs.
4 – Works great with Soundforge Pro 12 and previous versions. You must first go into Soundforge Options/Preferences/Audio and manually choose “UMC ASIO Driver” (after installing the driver) for proper routing of Input/Playback channels. Takes just a few seconds. You will probably have to do this with other software too and possibly every time it is launched.
5 – Documentation could be better. It would be especially helpful having explanations for how to accomplish various recording/playback tasks. They seem to think everyone knows the audio industry lingo, acronyms and practices. At this price, a lot of amateurs will be interested and many could probably use some help.
6 – Takes all power from the USB bus. If you have other USB powered devices on the same controller you could run out of juice. A simple, inexpensive solution … get a USB power dongle or power bar with a USB socket at any place that sells electronics, computers or even hardware. My supermarket has them.
7 – Takes some digging to find technical specs. On instruments in my lab looks excellent. I couldn’t find any audible shortcomings with flat frequency response and vanishingly low distortion (no distortion figures in the docs). Even with inputs turned up almost all the way with no sources connected, you still get noise around 90dB down, which is inaudible. I measure a small amount of cross-talk but you’ll never hear that either.
I have used pro audio gear over the years and this unit is in that class of performance. Some recordists will want more inputs/outputs. Behringer has bigger units but, of course, you pay more.
Yu –
Buena interfaz de sonido, ya que por el precio da un buen sonido en las grabaciones. Esta constriudo de metal y los botones se sienten bien al tacto y lo importante para mà eran las conexiones midi ya que asà puedo conectar mi pedalera para bajos. Recomendado.
misterg –
Es una gran interfase para su precio. Tiene una gran respuesta de frecuencia y muy buena funcionalidad. La entrada de lÃnea suena excelente con el preamp pero con un micrófono de condensador si le hace falta más punch. Si eres cantante, tocas teclado, guitarra, bajo o usas midi esto es el equipo básico que debes de tener.
Lo único que no me encanta es que no se apaga cuando la computadora está apagada aunque tampoco se calienta.
CUIDADO! para instalar debes bajar los drivers de la página, desconectar la interfaz y conectarla hasta después de reiniciar. Si la interfaz está conectada durante la instalación te va a marcar error. Solo hay que desinstalar e instalar de nuevo.
mountainmama –
I am setting up a small music workstation/recording outfit for my kids at home. Setup with this box was extremely easy, worked from the get-go. Played very well with Windows (WDM) system sound- no problems, just worked. I was leery of buying this box because the specs seemed too good to be true. That and a hit and miss past with Behringer products. As of late though, I’ve been quite impressed with the new products they’re putting out. This is no exception.
The build quality isn’t only as good as much more expensive products, but it exceeds them. The chassis is a very sturdy metal, really chunky and solid (which is good). The knobs, while plastic, are also solid and attached to incredibly smooth pots. Honestly, you’d be hard pressed to find a smoother throw on a knob in any product, regardless of price. I am a professional musician/producer and own audio interface products by Apogee, RME, Motu, Presonus, and Avid. As far as build quality, this box is on par. My limited experience with the sound quality of this box thus far leaves me with the impression that the box is certainly adequate if not excellent. The mic pres are clean with plenty of gain. The conversion is also clean and absolutely not getting in the way of creativity or a great performance.
Beyond build and sound quality, one of my biggest concerns with this box was latency as I am setting up a workstation that will be primarily built around virtual instruments (VSTi’s) and Cubase. I currently have the ASIO latency buffer set at 64 and that’s producing about 6-7ms of round trip latency. When playing virtual instruments it’s about half that. The box also has a playback/monitor mix knob for zero latency monitoring when recording live instruments/voice. So far the latency performance is excellent and has far exceeded my expectations.
Bottom line: You won’t come close to finding something this well built and functional among any of the lower priced audio interfaces. The value for what you’re getting is amazing.
JHzlwd –
It is among the best audio interface in the msrket. Sound quality is crisp and without noise as well as preamp is also of good quality. 5 pin midi in/out is another positive factor for external midi device. Insert and A B monitors are plus points. Above all the mono and stereo button works well.It would have been better if it had a digital signal display.
Yu –
It’s very easy to use 😉
Michael –
Simply said, the U-PHORIA UMC204HD is packed with features at an amazing price point. The initial setup in Windows 10 was 100% hassle-free. Just connect the included USB cable, let Windows do it’s thing, and in less than a minute, the unit is fully functional. Simply open your DAW or streaming app source list and select “Microphone (2-UMC204 HD 192K)”. Ready to go! The audio quality is super clean. With dual mic/line/instrument inputs (both will accept XLR or 1/4″ TRS) and individual gain controls (plus PAD option), you can connect just about anything and easily match up your levels. For monitoring/analog output, the unit offers consumer type RCA jacks plus 1/4″ TRS, and of course a headphone jack (and MIX adjustment) I personally don’t use MIDI, but it’s there if needed. As for build quality, the knobs and buttons feel great, and the metal enclosure is rock solid. Honestly, when compared to similarly priced products (Focusrite, PreSonus, etc), the Behringer delivers more bang-for-the -buck. Definitely worthy of your consideration.