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Sound Devices USBPre 2 USB-B Audio Interface

BH #SOUSBPRE2 • MFR #USBPRE 2
 42 reviews
Sound Devices USBPre 2 USB-B Audio Interface
Key Features
  • Field Mixers & Location Sound Recordists
  • Bus Powered, Mac/Windows/Linux
  • 2 Mic Preamps, 2 Line In, Stereo Aux In
  • 2 Headphone, 2 Mic/Line, 2 Aux Out
With topology from the award-winning 788T recorder, field-tested reliability, and class-compliant operation, the Sound Devices USBPre 2 portable 2x2 USB audio interface offers field mixers and location sound recordists a rugged, simple, and high-resolution device that connects professional microphones, line-level sources, consumer audio electronics, and S/PDIF digital sources with Mac, Windows, or Linux computer systems.
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Sound Devices USBPre 2 Overview

  • 1Description
  • 2Portable High-Resolution Audio Interface
  • 3Precision Microphone Preamplifiers
  • 4Computer Connectivity
  • 5Flexible I/O
  • 6Informative Metering
  • 7Field-Tested Reliability
  • 8Standalone Operation
By B&H Photo's

With topology from the award-winning 788T recorder, field-tested reliability, and class-compliant operation, the Sound Devices USBPre 2 portable 2x2 USB audio interface offers field mixers and location sound recordists a rugged, simple, and high-resolution device that connects professional microphones, line-level sources, consumer audio electronics, and S/PDIF digital sources with Mac, Windows, or Linux computer systems.

From its two high-gain discrete-transistor microphone preamps to its 24-bit / 192 kHz converters, the USBPre 2 is made for quality you can take with you. Unlike most 2x2 interfaces, it boasts peak limiters, high-pass filters, and input pads to prevent overloads and ensure clean signal recording. Balanced XLR mic/line outputs, unbalanced RCA aux outputs, S/PDIF digital outs, and two headphone ports (1/4" and 3.5mm) give you the connectivity you need for optimal monitoring and routing. The USBPre 2 can even function in standalone mode for situations that require an additional mic preamp or AD/DA converter without a computer.

Portable High-Resolution Audio Interface
The USBPre 2 is a portable class-compliant high-resolution USB audio interface for Mac- and Windows-based computers. It boasts professional sonic performance and flexible connectivity for dynamic/condenser microphones, line-level sources, consumer audio electronics, and S/PDIF digital sources.
Precision Microphone Preamplifiers
USBPre 2 includes two discrete-transistor microphone preamps with 24-bit converters and sampling rates up to 192 kHz. These preamplifiers provide immense gain up to 80 dBu and ultralow noise of -127 dB EIN. Their topology is shared with Sound Devices' award-winning 744T digital audio recorder. Peak limiters, high-pass filters, and a -15 dB pad provide overload protection. All analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog conversion is performed by the USBPre 2 for superior audio performance.
Computer Connectivity
The interface allows simple plug-and-play connection to computers running macOS, Windows, and Linux via the included USB Type-B to Type-A cable. There are no drivers to install for the USBPre 2 and there are no software-only features. All additional controls and settings are available on back panel DIP switches. The USB port also provides power to the unit, both when connected as an audio interface and when used in standalone operation.

As a class-compliant audio device, the USBPre 2 is limited to a maximum data rate of 24-bit / 48 kHz in Windows, Linux, and Mac OS versions 10.4 to 10.5.7. Mac OS 10.5.8 or later support the audio class 2.0 device and can address the USBPre 2 up to 24-bit / 192 kHz.
Flexible I/O
To ensure flexible input connectivity, the USBPre 2 offers balanced XLR mic inputs, balanced 1/4" line inputs, an unbalanced stereo RCA aux input, and stereo S/PDIF inputs (on coaxial and optical ports).

Its primary outputs include balanced mic- or line-level on XLR, unbalanced consumer line-level on RCA, and S/PDIF (on coaxial and optical ports). Additionally, there is an onboard headphone amplifier that feeds 1/4" and 3.5mm headphone outputs. Two output controls are provided—one controls the RCA aux and XLR main outputs, and the other controls the headphone outputs. The headphone output can be set to mono or stereo for monitoring convenience.
Informative Metering
Accurate signal level metering is essential for any sound engineer. The USBPre 2 includes a 23-segment, multicolor LED meter for precise level indication. The meter is switchable between input signal metering and playback signal metering and it indicates both VU and peak (PPM) ballistics.
Field-Tested Reliability
Like all Sound Devices products, the USBPre 2 is designed to stand up to the most demanding environments. Its extruded aluminum chassis and panels, machined knobs, metal connectors, and laser-etched nomenclature are designed to hold up to years of abuse.
Standalone Operation
The USBPre 2 can be used in standalone mode where it operates as a high-quality portable microphone preamplifier and analog-to-digital converter. Digital signals connected to the USBPre 2 are converted to analog and available at the headphone, XLR, and RCA outputs. Standalone operation requires the unit to be connected to a USB power source. Standalone mode is a great option when an additional microphone preamplifer, A-D converter, or D-A converter is required.
UPC: 859108005505

Sound Devices USBPre 2 Specs

Key Specs
Form Factor
Desktop
Channels of I/O
Analog:
2 Inputs / 2 Outputs
Digital:
2 Inputs / 2 Outputs
Maximum Sampling Rate
192 kHz / 24-Bit
Number of Microphone Preamps
2 Preamps
Analog Audio I/O
2 x XLR 3-Pin Balanced Mic Input
2 x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Input
1 x Stereo RCA Coaxial Unbalanced Aux Input
1 x 1/4" TRS Unbalanced Headphone Output
1 x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Unbalanced Headphone Output
2 x XLR 3-Pin Balanced Mic/Line Output
1 x Stereo RCA Coaxial Unbalanced Aux Output
Digital Audio I/O
1 x TOSLINK Optical S/PDIF Input
1 x TOSLINK Optical S/PDIF Output
1 x RCA Coaxial S/PDIF Input
1 x RCA Coaxial S/PDIF Output
Host Connection
1 x USB-B (Class-Compliant)
OS Compatibility
macOS 10.4 or Later
Windows XP
Windows Vista
Windows 7 (32/64-Bit)
Linux 2.6.0 or Later
*As of November, 2021: Check with manufacturer for the most up-to-date compatibility
Power Requirements
USB Bus Power
Display
2 x Multi-Segment LED Meter
Channels of I/O
Analog:
2 Inputs / 2 Outputs
Digital:
2 Inputs / 2 Outputs
Maximum Sampling Rate
192 kHz / 24-Bit
Number of Microphone Preamps
2 Preamps
Input Level Adjustment
2 x Knob
Expansion Slots
None
Signal Processing
Pad
Mic:
-15 dB (Switchable per Channel)
Gain/Trim Range
Mic Inputs:
Up to +80 dBu
Line Inputs:
Up to +30 dBu
High-Pass Filter
Mic Input:
80 Hz, 12 dB/Octave
Solo/Mute
None
Connectivity
Analog Audio I/O
2 x XLR 3-Pin Balanced Mic Input
2 x 1/4" TRS Balanced Line Input
1 x Stereo RCA Coaxial Unbalanced Aux Input
1 x 1/4" TRS Unbalanced Headphone Output
1 x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Unbalanced Headphone Output
2 x XLR 3-Pin Balanced Mic/Line Output
1 x Stereo RCA Coaxial Unbalanced Aux Output
Phantom Power
48 V, Selectable On/Off (Selectable on Individual Inputs)
Phantom Power Current
10 mA per Channel
Digital Audio I/O
1 x TOSLINK Optical S/PDIF Input
1 x TOSLINK Optical S/PDIF Output
1 x RCA Coaxial S/PDIF Input
1 x RCA Coaxial S/PDIF Output
Host Connection
1 x USB-B (Class-Compliant)
Host Connection Protocol
USB 2.0
USB (Non-Host)
None
Sync I/O
None
Network I/O
None
MIDI I/O
None
Performance
Frequency Response
10 Hz to 40 kHz ±0.5 dB (at 96 kHz, 1 kHz)
Maximum Input Level
Mic Inputs:
-10 dBu
+4 dBu (with Pad)
Line Inputs:
+28 dBu
Aux Inputs:
+9 dBu
Maximum Output Level
Aux Outputs:
+8 dBu
Headphone Outputs:
+11 dBu
XLR Outputs:
+18 dBu (Balanced)
Impedance
Aux Inputs:
80 Kilohms (Balanced)
Aux Outputs:
660 Ohms (Balanced)
Line Inputs:
60 Kilohms (Balanced)
Mic Inputs:
4 Kilohms (Balanced)
XLR Outputs:
500 Ohms (Balanced, Line Level)
5 Ohms (Balanced, Mic Level)
Dynamic Range
A/D Converters:
114 dB (A-Weighted, 22 Hz to 22 kHz)
D/A Converters:
112 dB (A-Weighted, 22 Hz to 22 kHz)
THD+N
System:
0.05%
Aux Outputs:
0.009%
Headphone Outputs:
0.05%
EIN
Mic Inputs:
-127 dBu (150-Ohm Source)
Digital Audio
Sample Rates
8 / 16 / 32 / 44.1 / 48 / 96 / 192 kHz
Sample Rate Conversion
None
Bit Depths
8 / 16 / 24-Bit
Sync Sources
Internal or S/PDIF
Audio Storage & Playback
Memory Card Slot
None
Compatibility
OS Compatibility
macOS 10.4 or Later
Windows XP
Windows Vista
Windows 7 (32/64-Bit)
Linux 2.6.0 or Later
*As of November, 2021: Check with manufacturer for the most up-to-date compatibility
Included Software
None
Compatible Software (Not Included)
Any Core Audio (Mac) Compliant Software
Supported Drivers/API & Plug-Ins
macOS Class-Compliant (No Driver Needed)
Windows Class-Compliant (No Driver Needed)
Mobile Device Compatibility
None
Required Hardware
Available USB 1.1 Port or USB 2.0 Port
USB Cable (Included)
Power
Power Requirements
USB Bus Power
Physical
Dimensions
7.25 x 4.25 x 1.7" / 18.41 x 10.79 x 4.3 cm
Weight
1.1 lb / 0.5 kg
Packaging Info
Package Weight
2.385 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
10.45 x 7.4 x 4.15"

Sound Devices USBPre 2 Reviews

Best USB Audio Interface you can buy

By Robert
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-01-02

That is a bold statement, but it is true. I upgraded from a Steinberg UR22 to this Sound Devices USBPre 2 and the differences are stunning. Everything about this is first rate. The head phone amp is so quite, I thought maybe it wasn't working. I no longer need by FetHead to boost my Electro Voice RE 20, the Sound Devices has more than enough phantom power. Every recording I've done with this audio interface is amazing for the lack of color it imparts compared to my Steinberg. Expensive, yes. Worth it? Absolutely.

Excellent!

By Brian
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2020-11-01

I LOVE this interface. Sounds amazing, well thought out controls on the front that do not require additional software to access. Seems like a very durable build. The meter section is outstanding. Going to be hard to go back to using other interfaces now.

Rugged & Reliable

By UnderCurrents
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2020-06-02

We've used the USBPre2 every day for thousands of public radio broadcasts and its performance has always been A+. It usually lives in the studio plugged optically into a TC Electronic Clarity M meter which makes a killer combo for postproduction. But I've also taken it out into the field and on international trips where it always got the job done with flexibility and ease. If you're serious about audio, this is an excellent investment.

The cable does not work

By Daniel
Rated 2 out of 5
Date: 2019-11-25

The interface has a USB 3.0 connection but in the box came a USB 2.0 cable.

USBPre2

By Jason A T.
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2017-03-15

Excellent, compact, portable addition for doing interviews and other recordings right into my computer. Makes an impressive difference in the quality of the audio.

Love it, love it, love it.

By Anonymous
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2017-02-22

Best I have used to date.

Cleanest Audio Interface you can buy

By Robert
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-01-02

I upgraded from a Steinberg UR22 to the Sound Devices USBPre 2 and the difference is like night and day. With the Steinberg I had my Electro Voice RE 20 connected to a FetHead to boost the mic, but that is not needed with the Sound Devices USBPre 2. I really appreciate the well laid out external controls as well as the very clean headphone amp. With my Sony MDR-7506's the output is virtually noise free. I've listened to a number of recordings I've made using this setup and they are much quieter than with the Steinberg. You really get what you pay for and this is a winner of an audio interface.

Very good audio interface

By Robert
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-03-23

I had a Steinberg UR22 interface that was getting a little old, and did not have the flexibility I wanted. I also thought that the headphone amplifier on the USBPre 2 might be better. I was right about the headphone amp--it does a really good job of driving my Sennheiser HD-650 headphones (which require more current than many headphones). And the metering and multiple connections are an improvement too. Further, the quality of the microphone pre-amps is excellent--I can use a Shure SM7B mic without a cloudlifter, with excellent results. Highly recommended.

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Can I connect the USBPre 2 to an iPad?

Can I connect the USBPre 2 to an iPad?
Asked by: Autumn
I haven't tried it, but it should be possible with the camera connection kit. The USBPre 2 is Class-compliant.
Answered by: Peter
Date published: 2020-03-30

Will this act somewhat like a soundcard/DAC and ...

Will this act somewhat like a soundcard/DAC and output audio from a Mac with its outputs over USB, or do the outs only playback what is coming directly connected into the USBPre 2?
Asked by: Phillip
Ye it will accept the computers audio output via USB.
Answered by: Mark
Date published: 2019-05-06

How does this compare to the MixPre? Can't those ...

How does this compare to the MixPre? Can't those do just about everything and more?
Asked by: Allen
The Sound Devices USBPre 2 Portable 2x2 USB Audio Interface has some similar features to the Sound Devices MixPre Series, and some notable differences. The USBPre 2 is limited to an interface only, where the MixPre line are primarily recorders with interface functionality that offer 32-bit recording in both modes of operation. The USBPre 2 has digital audio I/O functionality via S/PDIF and TOSLINK where the MixPre's do not. There is some overlap in functionality between this interface and the MixPre series, but many unique features to each as well.
Answered by: Matt Z
Date published: 2022-06-07

Has anybody compared the preamps of this ...

Has anybody compared the preamps of this interface with the MP-1 or MM-1? Are they the same preamps?
Asked by: Jordi
Both have the same high headroom and low noise features you'd expect on a Sound Devices pre-amp. The biggest difference is the USBPre2 can max out it's gain at 80db. The MM-1 has gain options selectable up top 66db.
Answered by: Daniel
Date published: 2020-07-20

Why does this cost more than a mixpre 6?

Why does this cost more than a mixpre 6?
Asked by: Jared
This usb interface is a predecessor to the mixpre series. This built more "mission critical" in terms of durability, much like the 6 series. As well, this unit has digital i/o, and the same preamps and converters found in recorders like the 6 series.
Answered by: Daniel
Date published: 2020-12-16

How much mic gain does this unit offer? I'm ...

How much mic gain does this unit offer? I'm considering it versus the UA Apollo Twin. Looking for quiet and powerful mic preamps in an interface.
Asked by: Charlie
Hi Charlie, I see the following in the manual under specifications: Analog Gain • Mic: 80 dBu max • Mic: (15 dB pad) 65 dBu max • Line: 30 dBu max • Aux: 13 dBu max
Answered by: Sound Devices Specialist
Date published: 2020-05-05

question

Can I use this to record additional ISOs on a Sound Devices 633 via the line level input?
Asked by: Anonymous
The Sound Devices USBPre 2 can be used as a standalone preamplifier and connected to the line inputs of the 633 for recording.
Answered by: Jeff P.
Date published: 2018-08-28

Can this be used to control volume on both ...

Can this be used to control volume on both headphones and external speakers?
Asked by: David
Hi David, The headphone volume control know may be configured—via a DIP switch setting—to adjust XLR and AUX output levels instead of headphone gain.
Answered by: Sound Devices Specialist
Date published: 2020-05-31
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