The US-200 from Tascam is a 2-input/4-output USB audio interface with MIDI connectivity. It features Mac and Windows compatibility, resolution up to 24-bit/96kHz, and a lightweight portable chassis.
The US-200's dual microphone preamps have 1/4" TRS & XLR Combo connectors, and can supply Phantom power for use with condenser microphones. Four, rear panel unbalanced RCA outputs are available, as well as a MIDI input and output for controlling synthesizers and drum machines.
Input 1 will also accept an instrument input for use with an electric guitar or bass, or any other Hi-Z source. Individual gain controls are available for both inputs. A direct monitoring path avoids the inherent delay that is otherwise caused when monitoring through computer software. The unit is USB bus-powered.
Cubase LE 5 software is included, allowing the user to immediate begin working. This version of Steinberg's workstation software features 48-track and VST plug-in support, while automated mixing and MIDI tracks allow the user to craft large productions without adding any other software.
The US-200 supports most other software for Mac and Windows, including Logic Pro, Live, Nuendo, Digital Performer, Fruity Loops, and Pro Tools 9.
| Converters | 24-bit |
| Sample Rates | 44.1, 48, 88.2 and 96kHz |
| Analog Input | 2 x 1/4" TRS/XLR Combi Microphone/Line (Input 1 also accepts 1/4" TS phone Instrument) |
| Input Impedance |
Microphone: 2.2kΩ Line: 15kΩ Instrument: 1MΩ |
| Input Level |
Microphone Nominal: -14dBu (0.15Vrms) Minimum: -57dBu (0.001Vrms) Maximum: +2dBu (0.98Vrms) Line Nominal: +4dBu (1.23Vrms) Minimum: -39dBu (0.008Vrms) Maximum: +20dBu (7.75Vrms) Instrument Nominal: -13dBu (0.22Vrms) Minimum: -56dBu (0.001Vrms) Maximum: +3dBu (1.41Vrms) |
| Analog Output |
4 x RCA phono 1 x 1/4" TRS phone Headphone |
| Output Impedance | 200Ω |
| Output Level |
Line Nominal: -10dBu (0.32Vrms) Maximum: +6dBu (2.0Vrms) Headphone Maximum: 18mW + 18mW (1kHz, 0.1%, 32Ω) |
| Digital Input | No |
| Digital Output | No |
| Other Connectors | 1 x 4-pin USB type B (USB 2.0 high speed, 480MHz) |
| MIDI In/Out | 2 x 5-pin DIN |
| Sync In/Out | No |
| Headphone Output | Yes |
| THD | 0.0045% or less (Line In to Line Out with minimum gain, 44.1kHz, JEITA) |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 98dB or higher (Line In to Line Out with minimum gain, 44.1kHz, JEITA) |
| Frequency Response |
20Hz to 20kHz, +0.5/-1.0dB (44.1/48kHz, JEITA) 20Hz to 40kHz, +0.5/-1.5dB (88.2/96, JEITA) |
| Power Requirements |
Supplied via USB (5V, maximum current 500mA 2W power consumption |
| Operating Temperature | 41°F to 95°F (5°C to 35°C) |
| System Requirements |
Mac PowerPC G4 1GHz or faster, or Intel processor OS X 10.5.8 or later, 10.6.3 or later 1GB RAM PC Pentium IV 1GHz or faster AMD Athlon 1GHz or faster, or equivalent processor Windows XP SP3 32-bit, SP2 16-bit or later/Vista SP2 32- or 64-bit or later/Windows 7 32- or 64-bit 1GB RAM |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 6.8 x 5.9 x 1.6" (172 x 151 x 41mm) |
| Weight | 1.1 lb (0.48kg) |
| Specialties | Includes Cubase LE 5 software for Mac OS X and Windows |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
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Reviewed by 7 customers
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Pros
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Comments about Tascam US-200 - USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface:
I like that is simple to connect & provides clean powered mic level input.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tascam US-200 - USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface:
I bought this product because I needed 4 outputs. I found out that the driver is not compatible with windows 8. Hopefully Tascam will release w8 driver soon.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tascam US-200 - USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface:
This is my first USB Audio Interface device and I'm happy to say it works like a charm. High quality audio. Downloaded drivers from the TASCAM web site and they installed flawlessly on my Windows 7 64-bit system.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tascam US-200 - USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface:
I am using this as an interface between my Gibson guitar, effects pedal and computer. Everything works and so far all is good. Drivers from CD loaded smoothly. I don't use the Cubebase software as my wife bought me Mixcraft 6 for Christmas. The TASCAM interfaces perfectly with it. Delivery to Ontario was within three days. Impressive. Thanks again B and H.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tascam US-200 - USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface:
I wanted an audio/MIDI interface to use with my VST synthesizers in Windows XP. Something simple but effective without all the pricey gadgets or FX some other manufacturers bundle in their interfaces. I found exactly what I was looking for in the TASCAM US-200. It is easy to install, works very well and gives me a very good sound quality. And since it combines both MIDI in/out, RCA outputs and is USB powered, I don't need other interfaces in my set up.I don't use my US-200 for recording, so I can't say if its inputs and preamps are good or bad, but the unit being a TASCAM, I would trust their quality.The unit seems to be well built even though it is made of plastic and is very light. The only thing I would have wished for is a more elaborate latency setting in the control panel (you have only 3 settings: Low, Normal and High) and a LED for monitoring the MIDI signal. But overall, I would say that TASCAM has once again done an excellent job. For me, the US-200 is worth every buck I paid for.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tascam US-200 - USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface:
The Tascam US-200 is a fantastic product, and it's providing EXACTLY what you need for 2 ins and 4 outs. Configured with a program like the DJ software Traktor, you're able to have a dedicated Stereo out (via RCA) for your monitor as well as a stereo headphone out for your preview (via 1/4"). Exactly what you need for live shows. It's also easy to configure with programs like QLab for 4 outputs (cueing for Theatre and Installations).
Upsides / Downsides: Knobs on the front control outputs, but you can't use them to control individual outs (easily at least). The first two knobs are for gain and output, the second two are pre-gain for Mics and Ins. Be warned: the software utility isn't very good. It does the basics, but that's all. If you're a sound nerd, you'll be a little upset here -- not a deal-breaker though. You should be able to easily patch controls differently, but the only built in ability is to change what software channels go to what outputs -- and 1+2 are always paired with 3+4. You can always change this manually with programs like Soundflower or QLab, but Tascam should work on its stuff. The audio quality is great @ 16 and 24, but if you have too much stuff going on with your computer, the interface starts to act up with a delay or with gritty feedback. I'm not sure if this is a computer specific issue or the interface itself. My guess is that it's just maxing out. A restart or a simple unplug, replug seems to fix it.
Unlike other interfaces, this is true 4 out. The stereo output in the front is tied to channels 1+2, so even though there is technically 6 physical outputs, there are only 4 actual channels. Again - not a deal-breaker.
I don't do much recording, so haven't tested the inputs. I'm sure they're great (it's Tascam).
Would also like to see a levels indicator for outputs AND inputs on the interface like the old 410s (with green, yellow and red). That, along with knob configuration via the utility, would turn this "B" interface into an "A+." Definitely worth the money and probably the best thing on the market at this price range.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tascam US-200 - USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface:
I bought this as an audio interface for my home studio month ago. First I was considering buying Tascam US-800 but just because of i didn't need so much inputs and outputs and i was concerned about place US-800 could take on my desk i went with US-200. At the moment I was buying US-200 there was an MIR from TASCAM for 15$ - will see how fast I will get it.
It's my first interface so it took me a while to understand how to setup device with my laptop (i have os: win 7 64bit) and with the Cubase LE. But if you just follow instructions from manual provided with the item you should be ok to setup all stuff for a max of 20 minutes.
US200 came with Cubase LE which is nice recording soft. I was able to plugin Native instruments VST as well as NI Guitar Rig to it so I am pretty satisfied with one.
Overall I think US200 is good and not expensive choice for not professional music makers. At least It fully satisfies my unprofessional music recording needs - I can plugin midi controller, guitar, mic and record all of that stuff in Cubase LE and monitor output with headsets or active monitors.
Displaying reviews 1-7
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 7 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-7
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tascam US-200 - USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface:
I like that is simple to connect & provides clean powered mic level input.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tascam US-200 - USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface:
I bought this product because I needed 4 outputs. I found out that the driver is not compatible with windows 8. Hopefully Tascam will release w8 driver soon.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tascam US-200 - USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface:
This is my first USB Audio Interface device and I'm happy to say it works like a charm. High quality audio. Downloaded drivers from the TASCAM web site and they installed flawlessly on my Windows 7 64-bit system.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tascam US-200 - USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface:
I am using this as an interface between my Gibson guitar, effects pedal and computer. Everything works and so far all is good. Drivers from CD loaded smoothly. I don't use the Cubebase software as my wife bought me Mixcraft 6 for Christmas. The TASCAM interfaces perfectly with it. Delivery to Ontario was within three days. Impressive. Thanks again B and H.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tascam US-200 - USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface:
I wanted an audio/MIDI interface to use with my VST synthesizers in Windows XP. Something simple but effective without all the pricey gadgets or FX some other manufacturers bundle in their interfaces. I found exactly what I was looking for in the TASCAM US-200. It is easy to install, works very well and gives me a very good sound quality. And since it combines both MIDI in/out, RCA outputs and is USB powered, I don't need other interfaces in my set up.I don't use my US-200 for recording, so I can't say if its inputs and preamps are good or bad, but the unit being a TASCAM, I would trust their quality.The unit seems to be well built even though it is made of plastic and is very light. The only thing I would have wished for is a more elaborate latency setting in the control panel (you have only 3 settings: Low, Normal and High) and a LED for monitoring the MIDI signal. But overall, I would say that TASCAM has once again done an excellent job. For me, the US-200 is worth every buck I paid for.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tascam US-200 - USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface:
The Tascam US-200 is a fantastic product, and it's providing EXACTLY what you need for 2 ins and 4 outs. Configured with a program like the DJ software Traktor, you're able to have a dedicated Stereo out (via RCA) for your monitor as well as a stereo headphone out for your preview (via 1/4"). Exactly what you need for live shows. It's also easy to configure with programs like QLab for 4 outputs (cueing for Theatre and Installations).
Upsides / Downsides: Knobs on the front control outputs, but you can't use them to control individual outs (easily at least). The first two knobs are for gain and output, the second two are pre-gain for Mics and Ins. Be warned: the software utility isn't very good. It does the basics, but that's all. If you're a sound nerd, you'll be a little upset here -- not a deal-breaker though. You should be able to easily patch controls differently, but the only built in ability is to change what software channels go to what outputs -- and 1+2 are always paired with 3+4. You can always change this manually with programs like Soundflower or QLab, but Tascam should work on its stuff. The audio quality is great @ 16 and 24, but if you have too much stuff going on with your computer, the interface starts to act up with a delay or with gritty feedback. I'm not sure if this is a computer specific issue or the interface itself. My guess is that it's just maxing out. A restart or a simple unplug, replug seems to fix it.
Unlike other interfaces, this is true 4 out. The stereo output in the front is tied to channels 1+2, so even though there is technically 6 physical outputs, there are only 4 actual channels. Again - not a deal-breaker.
I don't do much recording, so haven't tested the inputs. I'm sure they're great (it's Tascam).
Would also like to see a levels indicator for outputs AND inputs on the interface like the old 410s (with green, yellow and red). That, along with knob configuration via the utility, would turn this "B" interface into an "A+." Definitely worth the money and probably the best thing on the market at this price range.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tascam US-200 - USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface:
I bought this as an audio interface for my home studio month ago. First I was considering buying Tascam US-800 but just because of i didn't need so much inputs and outputs and i was concerned about place US-800 could take on my desk i went with US-200. At the moment I was buying US-200 there was an MIR from TASCAM for 15$ - will see how fast I will get it.
It's my first interface so it took me a while to understand how to setup device with my laptop (i have os: win 7 64bit) and with the Cubase LE. But if you just follow instructions from manual provided with the item you should be ok to setup all stuff for a max of 20 minutes.
US200 came with Cubase LE which is nice recording soft. I was able to plugin Native instruments VST as well as NI Guitar Rig to it so I am pretty satisfied with one.
Overall I think US200 is good and not expensive choice for not professional music makers. At least It fully satisfies my unprofessional music recording needs - I can plugin midi controller, guitar, mic and record all of that stuff in Cubase LE and monitor output with headsets or active monitors.
Displaying reviews 1-7