The UA-25EX from Cakewalk is a 2 input, 2 output USB audio and MIDI interface for Mac and Windows computers. It features two XLR inputs with preamps and phantom power for professional microphones, and a button that allows you to plug in guitars for direct recording. Analog dynamics processing is built directly into the UA-25EX, which is an unusual bonus for an entry-level interface. The analog limiter helps to control spikes in volume and reduce clipping and digital distortion, and the analog compressor can enhance your tracks with its adjustable threshold and variable attack settings.
Windows users can take advantage of the included Cakewalk Production Plus Pack software (the UA-25EX is fully compatible with Apple computers, however, the included software is not). The software bundle includes SONAR LE (a powerful audio recording and sequencing workstation), Dimension LE (a software instrument with over 400 sounds), and Project5 LE (virtual instrument host, audio recorder, and drum programming software).
The back panel of the UA-25EX features 2 balanced TRS outputs, 2 RCA outputs, two channels of optical S/PDIF digital audio I/O, and MIDI in and out ports. Whether you're recording rock musicians, solo or acoustic ensembles, voice overs for video production, or creating electronic music, the UA-25EX offers an ultra-compact form factor with excellent sound. The built-in analog processing and powerful software bundle really opens the door for you to create dynamic sounding productions.
| Inputs |
2 x Balanced XLR & 1/4" TRS Combo Inputs 1 x Optical Toslink 2 Channel S/PDIF Input 1 x MIDI In |
| Outputs |
2 x Balanced 1/4" TRS Outputs 1 x Optical Toslink 2 Channel S/PDIF Output 1 x 1/4" Headphone Output 1 x MIDI Out |
| Input Level |
XLR Input (Left/Right): -60 to -20 dBu
1/4" TRS Input (Left/Right): Maximum Input level: + 12 dB |
| Output Level |
1/4" TRS Output (Left/Right): +4 dBu (balanced)
RCA Output (Left/Right): Maximum Output level: Nominal Output Level + 12 dB |
| Connectivity | USB 1.1 (Compatible with USB 2.0 Ports) |
| Sampling Frequency |
Digital Output: 44.1/48/96 kHz
Digital Input:
AD/DA Conversion:
|
| Signal Processing |
Computer Interface: 24-bit (ADVANCE SWITCH=OFF: 16-bit)
AD/DA Conversion: |
| Residual Noise |
Output (1-8): -97 dBu |
| Audio S/N Ratio | 105 dB (input terminated with 1 k O, OUTPUT VOLUME: max., INPUT MONITOR: min., IHF-A, typ.) |
| Frequency Response |
96 kHz: 20 Hz to 40 kHz (+0 dB/-2 dB)
48 kHz:
44.1 kHz: |
| System Requirements |
Windows: OS: Microsoft Windows Vista / WindowsXP Home / XP Professional SP2 or later* Computer: Windows compatible PC equipped with a USB port CPU: Pentium Processor 1 GHz or higher Memory (RAM): 256 MB or more (1 GB or more is recommended) * This product does not support Windows XP Media Center Edition or Windows XP Professional x64 Edition * Macintosh computers running Microsoft Windows are not supported
Macintosh: |
| Hard Disk Space | USB Bus Power |
| Maximum Current Draw | 480 mA |
| Dimensions | 6 1/2 x 5 1/4 x 2 9/16" (164 x 133 x 64mm) |
| Weight | 1 lbs 4 oz (0.6 kg) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
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Reviewed by 5 customers
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Comments about Roland UA-25EX - 2 x 2 USB Audio & MIDI Interface:
Works well
Pros
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Best Uses
Comments about Roland UA-25EX - 2 x 2 USB Audio & MIDI Interface:
Clean package, positive controls, great software... can't reflect on durability yet but it works just fine out of the box
Pros
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Comments about Roland UA-25EX - 2 x 2 USB Audio & MIDI Interface:
I have a Macbook running Snow Leopard, with all the latest updates on all my software. I just do basic recordings of ideas with my setup, that includes a small mixer, my macbook, Cakewalk UA-25EX, Keyboard, bass. The Cakewalk unit works with Snow Leopard right from the get-go, no messing around. Quality of sound so far is very good. Midi control also very good. I recommend having a mixer, it makes your life easier, not that the Cakewalk unit needs it. I tried other units from M-Audio and Native Instruments in Snow Leopard without success, I guess they're still working on their driver updates. So, if you want something that works on Snow Leopard now! This is a very good choice!
Pros
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Comments about Roland UA-25EX - 2 x 2 USB Audio & MIDI Interface:
I am using the product for home recordings using MIDI, a mic, and guitar. The product is the only one of its type that I found that explicitly says they support 64-bit Windows 7. I have been using it with no obvious problems.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Roland UA-25EX - 2 x 2 USB Audio & MIDI Interface:
*I am an amateur singer-songwriter with a somewhat nice guitar, a Fishman pic, and a medium level condenser mic.
*I run windows EX sp2 on a laptop.
*The software and drivers installed quickly and without a problem.
*The unit is rugged. It really feels solid, which sets it apart from other boxes in this price range.
*I plugged in my gear, and was recording in minutes.
*Sounds great. Only complaint is the 96k recording/playing. You have to set the box to In and record in 96k. But then to play, you have to literally unplug the unit, switch to playback, plug the unit back in, and then listen. It only is this way at the 96k level, so its not really too bad. Still kinda annoying.
Displaying reviews 1-5