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.
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.
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.