Steinberg UR12 USB Audio Interface

By | December 16, 2014

If you’ve been looking for a compact and portable audio interface, you should take a look at the new Steinberg UR12. This is a 2 x 2 USB 2.0 audio interface with a single Yamaha D-PRE microphone preamplifier and 192 kHz support. The D-PRE, from the highly acclaimed series, gives users transparent sound that catches even the smallest of sonic details. All of the inner workings of the UR12 are housed in a tough, yet sleek metal casing. It’s durable and can withstand the usual wear and tear that comes with gear transportation. Best of all, the UR12 has iPad and computer connectivity, making it easy to plug in and play.

The Steinberg UR12 audio interface is relatively small and manages to fit all of its features on the front and rear panels without overcrowding the design. The front panel offers two input connectors: an XLR input for microphones and a TS input for instruments like guitars. The XLR input has +48V phantom power, so it can be used with both dynamic microphones and condenser microphones. Each input has a dedicated gain knob, as well as a peak LED indicator. The two outputs on the front panel are main output and headphone output, respectively. These outputs share one volume control knob. The front panel also features a Direct Monitor button, which allows the user to directly monitor all input signals going into the audio interface.

Front of the Steinberg UR12 USB Audio Interface UR 12

The rear panel has two main stereo output RCA connectors, one USB 2.0 port, one min USB port and the power supply port. The two main stereo RCA connectors are available for speakers and active monitors to be plugged into. The USB 2.0 port allows connection of a computer or iPad. The mini USB port can be used with power adapters and battery packs.

Rear of the Steinberg UR12 USB Audio Interface UR 12

On top of all of these great features, Steinberg has decided to include a copy of the Cubase AI DAW! How generous! The UR12 interface is digitally recreated when connected to a computer running the Cubase AI software. Although this doesn’t keep the UR12 as a Cubase-only compatible device. In fact, the UR12 audio interface can be used with any other DAW or audio software available today.

The Steinberg UR12 audio interface is perfect for recording on the go. It can be used by vocalists, bands, independent musicians, composers, producers etc.