Bro how do this video has so little likes and views.. great video man! Great job explaining the features of each interface it really helped me to choose which one may be more useful for me!
Hi Jonathan. Thank you very much, I'm very glad the video helped. I wasn't planning on making it until I got my M-Track solo and realized it wasn't very good, thought I'd warn everyone! In regards to your question about "so few likes," I don' t know, I've just been working on building my channel this year and plan on continuing to build it in 2022!! Again, I'm very glad the video helped you decide, good luck, and happy recording :)
hi Marcus. I'd like to thank you for making this review very clear and easy to understand. I decided to buy Behringer UM2 because of your video, and turns out, this is my best purchase for this year. Solid, easy to use, and very compact. Lot of thanks! Subscribed.
Hi there Awan. Awesome! Thank you for the kind words, and I'm very glad this video helped you, and that you're happy with your selection. Happy Recording and streaming, cheers!
Great video, I'm glad to see that you focus on every little detail, most people don't care about these details but professionals do care about these things, glad you addressed it into your video.
Hi there, thank you so much, I really appreciate it. I always try to get down to the nitty-gritty, as I actually am USING the gear day-to-day, and I've been in audio/video production for a while, so, even though I do get to work with some higher end gear, I still also use budget gear where applicable. I'm glad the video helped, cheers!
when i use the M-Audio Track Solo with my MX8500 it has the same issue. I only found one way to get rid of that static noise and big jump. I installed the driver for the interface and set the gain to around 9. Making sure that there is no static or the jump happening. And install the software for the Interface. Inside the interface i maxed out the buffersize and set the sample rate to 48000. Then i c=go to my sound settings in control panel and select the interface and max out the levels. This has worked for me, not sure if anyone else has done this?
Insane review. Let’s bybpass the incredible video quality n the crisp audio 😬🫣😳👏🏽 The review itself is INCREDIBLE. Just came here for this video but I just subscribed. Behringer UM2 does it for me. Thx man!
this is very helpful. i bought the Behringer UM2 in 2018 as a backup interface to Mbox mini which is now possibly causing some unwanted noise in my voiceover recordings but my Rode NT1 A is oldish too. started this home studio in 2013. wanting to upgrade my 2013 mac air to new M1 fanless/noiseless and want to keep my chain simple. 👍 trying to figure out thunderbolt ports now...
Hi Marcus, I'm setting up a studio in my house cheaply and this video helped me a lot, I chose um2, thank you very much for making such a nice and explanatory video
Wish i found this review earlier.....the m-track solo is super-jumpy..i have a scarlett that is perfect, but the m-track solo was unusable for most of my mics..the audiobox-GO has the same issue! I was able to peg the gain to 10 and use the Sennheiser E835, a happy coincidence. The den is noisier than the booth so a stage dynamic is perfect. To do it all again, I would get the behringer UM2 or jump up to the Scarlett. M=track solo Note: with input-1 all the way up, turning down input-2 keeps the noise on input-1 way down.
I am glad I found this comparison. A musician friend is looking for a beginner's podcasting interface. I was going to recommend the Focusrite 2i2 interface/headphone/mic set, but that wouild cost him at least $300. Then I saw the M-Audio but decided to check out reviews. That noisy pre-amp issue is a dealbreaker. Thank you.
Hi Marcus, UM2 & UMC22 has their own issues, and the main one is a lack of ASIO drivers for these cards. You can try ASIO4all, but it fails after some Windows updates, and there's no way to make it work any longer. Sure, it doesn't matter on Mac or Linux. But there I faced another disadvantage: on my UMC22 there wasn't enough gain to directly plug my guitar with Gold Foil pickup so I need to amplify it first, and it still required about 80% gain of the soundcard though the amp output sounded loudly in my headphones.
@@LuizFeijotheGuitar I'm not sure about noise, it rather depends on your microphone. Some soundcards are known to work noisy with dynamic ones. ASIO has been used to lower the latency.
@@LuizFeijotheGuitar yes, it's dynamic, and I don't know how does UM2 handle it. I can hardly suggest anything yet, using UMC22 and Rode NT-1A on a Linux machine.
Purchased a UM2 two years ago, Works fine with Audacity but can't get the drivers for REAPER, and discover Behringer don't supply them!? For this reason I'm saving up for another unit... Anybody want to buy a UM2?
Hi there Richmond. Unfortunately in my tests of (2) different M-Track Solo units, both preamps were noisy when turning the gain knob, and they both had that sudden jump in gain at the end. Another user also commented that they experienced the same thing. So, because I tested 2 different units and they both displayed the same noisy preamp, I can only conclude that this model is just that way - cheap and noisy, or M-Audio has a quality control problem. Either way though, it still means there's most likely more of a chance that people will receive an M-Track solo that DOES have a noisy preamp. Whereas I've used about 15-20 different UM2 units in the past year and NONE of them have any issues, none of them have any noise in the preamps, and they all work great, so, Behringer seems to at least be shipping a more consistent product. However, I AM very glad that your version of the M-Track solo is working well for you. I wish mine didn't have the noisy issues and I would have kept it. Cheers!
@@MarcusHutsell Oh yeah the big jump of the noise in the gain knob's present and it's an issue that really is m track's big downside, I have that in my unit too. But it's not a big deal for me at least. I'm more concerned with sound quality of the preamp and that's where m audio's Crystal Preamp is a big win over Behringer Xenyx for me. But I hope so too that M Audio's 3rd iteration of the M Tracks will fix the issue of the gain knob. Thanks for your reply, man! Happy New Year!
And a purist would never "want" to use the pre-amp gain because there is a sweet spot for the pre-amp and if you need more pre-amp gain it's probably because you need to compensate for a weak mic/instrument signal. So assuming you don't, what you say applies.
@Maxotics @Maxotics Yeah, like I said in the video, no one should really ever "need" to be up that high on the preamp, but, if you did need to, it shouldn't behave that way. lways best to have plenty of headroom.
@@MarcusHutsell Thanks, yes, great video! Enjoyed it! My guess is we both agree, if you can't deliver, don't do it ;) I've never used any M-Audio stuff but have always thought my Behringer stuff great value for the money and works well.
I got a M-Track solo, plugged it in with my condenser microphone with my phantom power on, and both clip lights went red and wouldnt work, only heard a buzz coming from it, looked it up and other people had the same problem when using phantom power, it is unfixable and i had to return it and get a um2
Hi there. Honestly, based on the fact that I ALSO returned 2 m-track Solo's, I would return it. I haven't had any issues with the UM2. Seems like M-Audio quality has gone down hill. It never was really excellent-quality, but it was OK. Seems now it's just bad.
I solder my own cable and totally forgot about ground and would not gettin any signal... I was just wondering around then I saw your video not left right.... INSTANT LIKE AND SUBSCRIBE... Thank you!!!
Excellent video! I am torn between the Behringer UM2 and UMC22 at the moment, would love your opinion on the UMC22 as well . I personally don't see the UMC22 being worth the extra 30€, because its pretty much identical to the UM2 in terms of sound quality
Thanks Marcus for this! Great video and I learned a lot. I didn't know the UM2 exists and is way better that the M-Audio Solo which I am eyeing for a while as I am just a beginner. I plan to only record guitar parts though. Just noticed too that I am the 1000th subscriber haha More power and keep it up! Thanks again!
Hi there Don. You are welcome, I'm so glad the video helped. I've got a couple of UM2's, and I use them a lot for work as well, it's one of the best little interfaces for $45! And YES, You are my 1,000th subscriber!! This is awesome, thank you so much!! I'm hoping this TH-cam thing can continue to take off for me and that I can provide valuable information to all of you, thank you again! 🎉🎈🍾🥳
I think a very important part that was missed in this video is that the Mtrack solo has it own dedicated drivers where as the UM2 doesnt, so the m track has much more stable and lower latency operation
whoa whoa whoa.. balanced != stereo. I thought I understood what balanced was and clearly I was COMPLETELY wrong. It may seem basic to you creative people but wading into this sphere this revelation kinda changes my understanding of what will and won't work for me. That little snippet was very useful thanks. Off to research land with me.
Hi there. Correct: Balanced audio signals on a single TRS 1/4" cable are NOT stereo audio signals......to get a balanced STEREO signal, you would need (2) independent cables going into (2) independent balanced inputs: Signal 1 = Left (XLR or TRS balanced), and Signal 2 = Right (XLR or TRS Balanced). And, to get a properly balanced signal the equipment SENDING the signal has to balance it first before sending out of a 3-wire shielded cable. So, yep, I'm glad that little snippet helped, good luck!
What headphones will you recommend for me? I’m using the beringer um2 and AT2020 microphone and I’m trying to get a headphone to just start my home studio
Thanks for the video. Is it possible to use a mic on the Line 2 port of the M-Track, using a XLR to jack cable? Or will a mic only work on the XLR port? Best greetings! :-)
Hi there. It's never great to try to adapt an XLR microphone to 1/4" connections. 1/4" inputs generally don't have the same mic-pre circuitry as an XLR mic-pre. For instance, on the UM2, trying to plug in an SM58 to the 1/4 instrument input with an adapter, I CAN get a signal if I turn the gain ALL the way up, but it's very weak. ON the m-Track Solo, the 2nd input is expecting a line-level signal (AKA a high/loud signal with high voltage amplitude and lots of current/push) or an instrument level signal (same amplitude of voltage usually, but very little current/push). But a microphone sends a low amplitude/voltage with a decent amount of current/push, and this just isn't "line" or "instrument" signal type, so, input 2 won't handle it well.....long story short, you'll probably get a signal if you use an XLR>1/4" adapter and gain up input 2, but you will most likely add more noise than you want, even if you boost in post, and it won't work with mics that need phantom power.
Hello! I've been planning on buying a Behringer UMC22 interface (which a lot of reviews said it's better than the UM2). I would like to ask if the UMC22 is any better (or worse) than the M-Track Solo? I read a handful of reviews that the audio quality of M-Track Solo is much better than UMC22, but I'm pretty doubtful of it's build quality and longevity since it is full-on plastic, while on the other hand the UMC22 is much sturdier with its metal casing. Taking also into account the all-plastic casing of M-Track Solo would pretty much capture a lot of background interferance. Thanks in advance for your response 🫡
In the video he states his opinion that the UM2 is better than the M-audio solo. So if you think the UMC22 is better than the UM2 you've answered your own question.
Hi there. Long story short, yes, the Focusrite Solo is going to do you much better. In general, the focusrite Scarlett's are "better" overall in terms of build-quality, can have lower noise (depending on your mic, etc), but I also have a Behringer UM2 and UMC-22, and both sound great, and I also have a 2i2, and the Behringer's sound fine next to them. The Behringer UM2 and UMC22 only do 16-bit depth, while the 202HD/404HD and the 2i2 will all do 48 bit. The Behringer models are less rugged, especially the UM2, as it's all plastic. Check out Julian Krause's channel he does a lot of testing with these interfaces and has a lot more stats. www.youtube.com/@JulianKrause The 2i2 has a different Analog-to-Digital converter in terms of this: The clip-light on most of the Behringer interfaces will CLIP-out before the software meters clip out. So, if you're ONLY watching your software (Adobe Audition, any DAW/recording software), then you may think you're find and NOT clipping, but your preamp on the interface may be in full-clip and you might not notice, and your audio would be ruined......so, always a reminder to keep an eye on the physical preamp's clip light on the interface, and never clip it out. And this means the Behringers will record a *slighly lower level into the computer overall. not much, but a bit lower than the Focusrite scarlett series. All that to say, the Focusrite's are the better interface for durability, features, build-quality, and its preamps clip when the digital signal clips in software, so it's easier to NOT mess up with the Focusrite models As long as you pay attention to gain structure and know how to route signal, you can avoid clipping, and then amplify your audio a bit in post or even live through software like OBS. I hope that makes sense, cheers!
But as far as noise goes… I wouldn’t worry too much about a huge noise difference between a Beringer and a Scarlett, You’re going to be more limited by the microphone you choose then adding a lot of noise from either of these preamps
Hi there. In my opinion the Behringer is the better unit, simply because of the issue that I found on multiple versions of the M-Audio M-Track Solo. The gain on the M-Track solo "jumps" way up at the end/top of the gain knob, so, you may run into problems with your level jumping and clipping out. The UM2 doesn't have that problem and is clean all the way to maximum gain. So, I'd go for the UM2. Of course, then, you can use whatever XLR microphone you want. Good luck!
Hi ... really insightful video im also a drummer still a bit confused i have roland td4kp and for that im thinking to buy one will they be good for an electronic drum or i should go for midi ones .....
Hi there. If you want to run your drums into your computer and get stereo sound, I'd go for one of the other versions, specifically at least the Behringer UMC202HD, amzn.to/3U7mQW2, as that will give you (2) true, line-level inputs, which is best if you feed the Left/Right outputs from your td4kp over to an audio interface. The only reason you'd need an interface with MIDI is if you want to use your Roland drum kit to cue sounds inside your audio software via MIDI.....using your electronic drums as a controller for other drum sounds that live in software on your computer. If you just want to use the onboard sounds from the td4kp and record that......you don't need MIDI on your audio interface. I hope that helps
Hi there. If your electronic drum kit has a stereo (left/right) output, I'd probably get the next higher model, the Behringer UMC202 HD, as it has (2) proper mic/line inputs. The UM2, although it has a 2nd 1/4" input. that input is "meant" for plugging in a guitar or bass directly. Granted, I have used input 2 to run a line-level signal into and, to my ears, it sounds fine, so, you may get by with the UM2, but the UMC202HD has (2) matching inputs which is better if you're trying to feed a stereo input into a USB interface. Happy drumming and recording! This one: amzn.to/3CLv7tp
Good job! What audio interface did you use to make this video (sounds great?) Also, would you recommend the Behringer for just recording vocals for podcast videos because that's the ONLY thing I'll be using it for. Thanks and keep the videos coming!
HI there Josh. Thank you. And, oddly enough, I didn't use either one to record this video. I probably should have, but my typical setup is this: Rode VideoMic NTG running 1/8" cable out directly into my Panasonic GH5. So, my mic gets recorded directly into my camera and baked into the video file. I do, however, apply some post processing in Premiere like a little noise reduction, EQ, compression, and sometimes a De-Esser. I primarily use my Um2 for virtual meetings at my office at work, where i have an inexpensive shotgun mic running into input 1, and I use the output for headphones. I also use the UM2 if I need to record some guitar.......which isn't often b/c I'm not a good guitar player! But, at least it offers that feature. Cheers!
Yeah, sounds really good. A friend gave me his Rode Podmic, so I'll probably just pair that with the Behringer and a Klark Teknik MIC BOOSTER CM-1 Dynamic Microphone Booster and see what I can come up with. Thanks!
Hi Paulino. For my daily meetings at my office at work, I use a LyxPro CMG-50. I made a video about that mic. It's cheap enough, but sounds pretty good. Definitely has a decent amount of self-noise, but, I also show in my video how much the meeting platform can clean it up. It's perfect for my internal meetings where I need to sound better than my laptop mic, but not "radio broadcaster" good. Link to my video on the LyxPro CMG-50: th-cam.com/video/HTON13FnLzw/w-d-xo.html
Hi there. Thank you. I haven't used the Presonus interfaces (in a long time). Not sure *exactly what you mean when you say "Makes Pops when clips," but if the red "clip" light lights up on the front when you're using your mic, you're obviously clipping out the preamp, and yes, that will absolutely mean you get "pops" and "clips/clicks" in your audio. Watch that clip light and never go into red/clipping. If you turn down your input gain to where that red light NEVER comes on when you're talking into your mic and you STILL Get pops-and-clips in your audio, it could be a driver issue (if using Windows) or a sample-rate mismatch somewhere. Hard to tell, but keep testing
Hi there. I'd go with the Behringer UM2. The "gain jump" issue that I talk about concerning the M-Audio M-Track Solo makes it worse in my opinion. The UM2 doesn't have any issues like that, so I'd go with the UM2. As far as condenser mics go, for starting out, the Audio Techica AT2020 is a great condenser mic for only $100. It's been around a while, it's not expensive, and has a great sound.
Hi there Samson. I honestly think that the Behringer UM2 is a much better unit, mainly because of that "gain jump" issue I talk about in the video. I have a mic that I use with the UM2 that requires a lot of gain, so I have to have the input gain on the UM2 way up near the top end. And I wouldn't be able to do that with the M-Audio M-Track solo because I'd be up near that 95% mark and the gain might "jump" and ruin my recording or meeting. So, if you're choosing between these 2 models, go with the UM2.
Hi Marcus, If I want to listen thru my amps, should I connect it using it's headphone port or output port and why? If it's outpout, is it left or right side?
Hi there. I would always try to use the output port first, so, the RCA, or 1/4" outputs on the back. Headphone output ports can have different output impedances meant for headphones and that *Can (not always) affect the frequency response depending on what you have the headphone output going TO. It should still work using the headphone output, but I'd always start with the mains-outputs. Secondarily.....You ask if you should use the left OR the right side output.......but, what "amp" are you going TO? What kind of "amp" are you talking about exactly? And, is it a mono-input or does it only have a single audio input? If it only has a single/mono input, I'd get a Y-cable that takes the left-right out of the interface and joins it (properly) as a mono input on the other side of the y cable......but the specific cable you would need depends on the type of input your amp has.
Hi Marcus. I'm going to create home studio for recording my music. Now I'm looking for USB interface for home recording (to record vocal, guitar, bass) . Did Behringer UM2 good enough for my need? Or should I save more to buy Focusrite Scarlett Solo? Thank you
Hi there. The focusrite’s Scarlet interfaces are great as well. They are definitely better-built with metal exteriors. I have heard that they have issues with Windows computers, and that they are better on Apple computers, mainly due to not needing drivers with Apple computers. I’m an Apple-guy, and I do use Scarlett’s at work some. But honestly, the UM2 is a great little interface for only $45. The Scarlet Solo is more than twice the price and also does NOT have a combo 1/4”/XLR input on input 1. On the Scarlet solo, input 1 is XLR-only, but, most people are using input 1 for an xlr mic, but if you need to run a line level input into either the UM2 or scarlet solo, the UM2’s input 1 allows that more easily by using a 1/4” cable on input 1, because it’s expecting line level on input 1 when you use a 1/4” cable instead of an XLR Cable. So you do have that option with the UM2, however, with the Scarlet solo, you have the option on input 2 to do the same with the line/instrument switch. The scarlet May last you longer if you plan to move or take the interface with you, since it’s metal it’s more road worthy, and it has flashier lights, but a lot of that is cosmetic. I totally like the look of the Scarlet interfaces, but, I went with a UM2 because it does exactly what I need for $45, and the preamp is clean.
HI there. Yes, but here are some notes: Most guitar amplifier OUTPUTS are line-level outputs. So, you might be better getting the M-Track Solo in this case because the M-Track Solo's 1/4" input is selectable between "Line" or "Guitar," and you'd want the "line" option on your interface if going from Amp-Output-to-USB-Interface. The Behringer's 1/4" input is "instrument" only, and, although it usually works with a "line level" signal, it's best to try to match signal types if possible. You CAN also put a microphone in front of your amp and use the XLR input on either interface. This is very common in studio recording and you can also capture natural reverb of your room (if you want). I've done both, and often when recording you CAN do both, record the direct output/signal from the amp-output, AND add in some audio from a microphone sitting in front of that amp. Long story short, the M-Track solo would be better for you in your case. If you wanted an interface that's just a bit more robust, I'd get the Focusrite Scarlett Solo, much better built, will last you longer.
Hi there Kauser. If i were you and you were choosing between these 2 interfaces, I'd get the UM2. The UM2 will have less noise on the preamp and should be more effective in recording clean vocals. Godspeed, and good luck on your recording!
Hi there Ege. You should be just fine using this interface on a Windows computer. You'll just need to install the driver from Behringer, you can download it for free from the Behringer website, and you should be good to go after installing the driver. www.behringer.com/downloads.html Good luck!
Good morning sir, i want to buy best budget best qwality audio interface sir.. Give me A Suggestion sir..!! & I'm using behringer C3 microphone sir is it worth or suggeste me any other microphone sir.
Hi there. If you're just starting out, the UM2 is a very good first choice for an audio interface. Otherwise, the Behringer UMC202HDamzn.to/3U7mQW2 is a very quiet, clean interface, and will keep a lot of noise out of your recordings. The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is also very good. As far as microphones go, the best thing to do is just decide if you like the sound of your current microphone. If you like the sound you're getting, there's no need to change mics. I've never used the Behringer C3 mic, but again, if it's working for you, keep using it!
@@MarcusHutsell Thank you so much for you are valuable Reply sir. I have aproched many channels but no one replied to my comment but you given the valuable answer sir. From INDIA..
I think the youtube algorithm gods bless me, found this video amid online shopping for one LOL. I hope I wont encounter those driver issues since i am using a windows machine
Hi Marcus (or anyone else reading), super late so I doubt I'll receive a response, but worth a shot I suppose. Recently my living situation has changed and I can no longer play my amp out loud. My amp doesn't have a headphone jack but it does have a line out. I'm looking to monitor and rarely record via this line out. I was initially drawn to the focusrite 2i2, but then read someone say the m-audio was better on a guitar forum. Then i started looking at the m-audio and saw the line level and instrument level switching and thought that was a nice feature. Now after this video I'm not so sure what to do. Do you know if the focusrite can receive line level from an amp? I can't seem to find this info and I don't know where to look or who to listen to as this is my first interface. Thanks
Hi there Lepus. Between the m-audio and focusrite, I would go with Focusrite. Much better built unit. M-audio seems to have gotten cheaper and cheaper. The company I work for.......we have about (30) Foscrite 2i2's on our shelf that get used very often for lots of stuff, and no complaints there, they work great and are metal so they can travel (a bit) better (although always use a case for transport). It's been a LONG time since I've tried running a guitar amp into an audio interface, so I can't remember the exact output type of an amp,.......however, the 2i2 still has the switchable line/instrument on both inputs. So, honestly, I'd go with the 2i2. You can use the XLR input on either of the XLR-1/4" combo inputs if you're using a microphone, you can use the 1/4" input (again, on EITHER of the XLR-1/4" combo inputs) if your guitar amp is sending a balanced signal, and you can then switch it to "instrument" if you want to plug your guitar in directly. As far as line-vs-instrument coming out of your guitar amp, it really depends on what type of signal your amp is actually sending out: Balanced Line-level, or unbalanced line level, or unbalanced instrument level. But I think the 2i2 would be able to handle any of those 3 options. The 2i2 is going to last you a lot longer, and I think ultimately you'd be happier with it. I hope that helps, cheers!
Hi there. I'm not familiar with the ST interfaces, but I tend not to trust "no name" brands, but it may be just fine. I don't have any issues with the Behringer UM2 or UMC22, despite the fact that they're "only" 16 bit. 16 bit is fine for most things. If you really want 24 bit, I'd save up and just get the Focusrite Scarlett Solo. You can still find the Gen3 Scarlett Solo for around $100 (whereas the Gen 4 is about $140). Or, there are other Behringer Interfaces that do 24 bit: the UMC202HD, the UMC204HD, and the UMC404HD: I'd steer clear of the UMC202HD because the "direct monitor" feature is ONLY in stereo, so if you only have a mic in input 1, it will ONLY be in your left headphones. But the 204HD has a stereo/mono button for direct monitor, AND, the 204HD is only $80. Yes, more than $50, but less than a Scarlett Solo. But, personally, I'm staying away from M-Audio at this point, mainly b/c of that Gain-jump issue, preamps should NOT do that.
Behringer is Great hardware BUT THIRD CLASS WHEN IT COMES TO DRIVER SUPPORT: website provided drivers dosent work. TH-cam user provided works but Wont detect it as Line-in
Hi there. Yes, absolutely, the interface itself should work just fine, you may just want to use a mic, like a condenser mic, that doesn't need as much gain so you aren't at the top of that gain knob range. And this particular "gain jump" issue is another important reminder to always "avoid extremes," with your gear. If you HAVE to be up at that top-end (or bottom-end) of a control dial......maybe something else is wrong and it's something to investigate. I talk about that in this video: th-cam.com/video/H9G5TR4m5gQ/w-d-xo.html Cheers!
HI there. Both the headphone outputs on these devices are fine and can drive almost any headphones. I'm currently using the UM2 with my Beyer Dynamic DT770, 80-ohm headphones, and it gets way louder than I'll ever need (if I want to keep my hearing). You should be just fine with either, but I do recommend the UM2 over the M-Track solo because of the input-gain issue on the M-Track solo. Good luck!
Hey marcus I'm a rapper and producer and i need a interface for my home studio setup and recently i bought behringer c1 which is a better microphone for my home studio but I'm bit confused for the interface i want to buy um but can you please tell me which one I'll chose ??
Hi there! Honestly, for longterm use and rock-solid quality, I'd spend just a bit more money and go with at least the Focusrite Scarlett Solo. They have quiet preamps, have a metal-housing, have more modern USB-C ports, and will last you longer. If you want a separate volume knob for the main output and one for your headphones, then go with the Scarlett 2i2. The UM2 is great if you really are on a tight budget, but I have had at least one have some breakaage inside, but that was due to it being tossed around in a road case when traveling. Good luck!
Help me please. I'm using an unbalanced cable (only two wires instead of three) with XLR mic connectors. I have one wire connected to hot, the second is connected to cold and shorted with shielding. Can I use this cable with an audio interface to connect a dynamic microphone? I just read somewhere that it is not recommended to short the cold and ground wires due to the peculiarity of the phantom power supply. But for a dynamic microphone, I don't need to turn it on. If I use this cable with phantom power off, will I break the audio interface?
Hi there. Well, you're right, I certainly would't turn the phantom power ON while using that cable. But you won't break the audio interface by just using that cable. It may not work as you think it would, because the XLR input is looking for a balanced signal, but as long as phantom power isn't on, you shouldn't hurt anything. Question, why exactly are you using an unbalanced cable?
I have NOOOOOO idea. I gave up on trying to be a Linux guy around the year 2003 when I got it all installed on a 2nd partition on my computer......but couldn't do much with it at that time due to there just not being a lot of drivers or software for anything......so,........great! I have Linux installed, but now what?!?! ha! Good luck :)
Hi there. I didn't thoroughly test the headphone output, especially since I sent the M-Audio back really quickly because I wasn't going to keep it with that "gain jump" issue I talk about. But, I don't recall the headphone outputs being any different in sound quality.
Hi there. I would not get the M-Audio at all. Also, I've heard the Behringer drivers for PC can be a pain sometimes. Honestly, I'd probably try to save up and go for at least the Focusrite Scarlett Solo. But, if you're choosing between these 2, I'd go for the UM2.
@@MarcusHutsell thank you, I think I will have to go with a field recorder then but I worry about the power and the battery. If you have any recomandation for an other all in one solution (including an interface), pleas let me know. Thank you
Hi there. I'd always choose the Behringer UM2 over the M-Track Solo. The M-Track solo has a gain-jump issue near the top-end of each of the gain knobs, whereas the Behringer is clean all the way up. You can plug the electric guitar directly into input 2 for a clean elec. gtr sound. Of course, if you're playing through an amplifier with distortion, reverb, etc, then just put a microphone on the amp (SM57) and run that mic into input 1 to record. Either way, I'd always choose the UM2 as a great budget audio interface.
hi, I've bought a while ago the UM2 (and unfortunately I'm over the return window). I use it only to connect my headphones to different consoles since they don't require any driver, but I've noticed that if put the audio at more than 50%, I can hear some white noise in the background (it's not a "spike" whenever I'm turning the knob, it's constantly in the background) is this to be expected or would you suggest buying another one? I'm sorry if I'm not really know a lot about technical terms!
Hi there Alessio. So, it depends, and it's hard for me to tell how that noise sounds since I can't listen. But, it could be coming from a few different places or issues. I'm also curious as to exactly how you're hooking up the UM2 to a console. Are you just using the USB Port to provide POWER To the UM2 and then feeding in an XLR or 1/4" to the UM2 from your console? Let me know, I'm curious. So, as far as noise goes, it could be a couple of things: #1. If your gain structure on your audio console is low on the input preamps of your channels.....then your audio signals running through your console may be very low and close to the console's noise floor, and as they get bussed-around in the console and processed (compressor, EQ, buss-sends, stereoo left/right buss,, etc), then you could just have improper gain structure at your inputs.......aka, noisy audio in the console, and if that's the case, and then you send that out of the console, you'll be boosting the console's noise, as well as any more noise added by the UM2 (depending on if you're using the 1/4" or XLR option on Input 1 of the UM2). #2, there might be a problem with your UM2. Oddly enough, I started having a strange issue in ONE of the several UM2's that I use (we have about 15 of them at my work for live/virtual event production). And, I just happened to plug one in the other day and I heard this noise that shouldn't be there, it was kind of this, always-present interference noise. So, I tried changing some things and even used a different computer, but the same results, this unwanted noise. And this wasn't just white or pink noise or hiss, it was much more of a kind of mix of white noise with some garbled stuff, sounded like some sort of wireless interference. So I grabbed another UM2 and it did not have the same problem. Then I started searching and came across this video (different model, the UMC22, but I was experiencing the same issue on the UM2): th-cam.com/video/aTa2B21qGAY/w-d-xo.html Now, that guy had to replace a resistor, and for a $45 UM2, I'm not that good at soldering those small parts! So, check your gain structure first. If you are hearing the noise even without anything plugged in to the UM2, the UM2 might be broken. And, this is one of the things I touch on briefly in this video, that the UM2, being made of plastic, *might not be as road-worthy as other interfaces if it gets tossed around. And I think the one that I'm having issues with was probably just that: It got tossed around a lot in our shop, in/out of road cases, and something inside just broke. If you're going to replace it and are transporting it around.....I'd probably go with a little more sturdy interface, maybe a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2, they've got a metal housing and can be a bit more robust.....but I'd still transport it in a case either way. Let me know your signal flow and if you have any noise with the UM2 WITHOUT an audio input plugged into it.
hi am new to this .i just got m audio duo ..and i find out it only record stereo which the sound only come out either left or right ..am using i just want mono ..i dont play instrument only record vocal..so if i buy the um 2 it wont have this problem right ??as it only have one chanel....
Hi there. Actually, you can record in mono using the m-audio Duo, you don't need to return it. Recording into your computer and getting either mono or stereo recordings, depends on the software you're using and HOW you set it up. For instance, if you are using Garageband or Adobe Audition (or really any software), you have to tell that input track WHICH input to use. Sometimes if you add a "stereo" audio track, and hit record, that stereo audio track is most likely using "input 1" as the left and "input 2" as the right. So, that's most likely how you are hearing audio "only on the left." Again, it depends on the software you're using and setting up the inputs correctly. You can tell any software to use input 1 only, and record a mono track. The UM2 also technically has 2 inputs, an XLR input and a 1/4" instrument input, so, it will behave the same way.........you can select input 1 or 2, or both if you're recording into a stereo track. So, try to check all the settings in your software, you should be able to select "input 1" only.
@@MarcusHutsell Thank you so much for the reply.My situation is I'm no professional on this and I just want to record video use my cellphone I have condenser USB mic That works without any problem. But I just want to try out the dynamic if I use xlr to USB cable the mic is not loud enough, so I need to have interface, but with interface if I just use cellphone am not able to setup mono, so How u record video with dynamic mic? record video use camera or dslr AND using professional software record vocal only so u can set mono and after everything match the video AND audio? Is there any way I can record the video and the audio at the same time and using dynamic mic?
Yeah, I'm pretty much done with M-Audio gear. I used it for a while about 10 years ago because Pro Tools and M-Audio partnered so you could use M-Audio hardware with Pro Tools. Worked well for me back then and I had a much more expensive M-Audio 8-channel Firewire mic preamp for my drums, but these small interfaces seem to just be low quality now.
First of all you have to intsall the drivers from Behringer. This is one thing about using PC's/Windows.....you have to install drivers for many audio cards. You can search for your model on the Behinger website here www.behringer.com/downloads.html and download the .exe ASIO drivers. Start there, then reboot your PC,
Hi there. If your synth has a balanced 1/4" line-out, then yes. Or, if your synth has a headphone jack then you can get a splitter cable and use the (stereo) headphone jack on the synth to go into inputs 1 and 2 of either device.
Hello sir .... Is there any Sound Card only dedicated for Studio Monitors ? Which is the best cheapest Audio interface for monitors ..... I can't afford those hilariously expensive interfaces like 200$ just to power up monitors
Hi Natalie. Well, if you're using studio monitors that have a built-in amplifier in the speaker (like most studio monitors do), you actually *don't Need an additional interface. Since the amplifier is in the speakers, they are expecting a line-level signal, and, you can just use the 1/8" headphone jack of your computer and get proper cable to take the stereo signal from the 1/8" headphone jack on your computer and get to the left, and right speakers accordingly. Then, you can just use the volume buttons on your computer to control the operating system volume, which will send signal out of the headphone jack and to the speakers, then, the speakers will amplify the signal just fine. Again, assuming your speakers are regular studio monitors with built-in amplifiers. So, if I were going to do this, I have the Presonus Eris E5's, which have RCA, 1/4", or XLR inputs. Therefore, I could get a 1/8" (3.5mm) to dual XLR cable like this amzn.to/3MATEmm, and just go directly to the speakers. That's because this cable will properly send the left signal to one of the XLR-ends on the cable, and the right signal to the other XLR-end. And I'd be just fine, and I could use the volume on my laptop to control the overall volume coming out of the speakers. The only thing you need to worry about is to not run these cables to far, because the signal is unbalanced with this splitter cable, and the longer the cables, the more noise can get into the signal and end up at your speakers. The second option would just be to use something like the Behringer UM2 as a master controller for your speakers. For $45, you can use the outputs of the UM2 (RCA outputs on the back of the UM2), and then run an RCA cable over to your speakers. Then just use the output knob of the UM2 to control the volume to the speakers. You'd just, obviously, have to tell your computer to use the UM2 as your master audio-output device. If your spekaers have RCA inputs, that's easy. If they do NOT have RCA inputs, you'd just need cables that are RCA-to-1/4" or RCA-to-XLR to ensure you can actually get your signal into your computer. RCA to RCA: amzn.to/3kpHdhe RCA to 1/4" amzn.to/3s1YlxN RCA to XLR: amzn.to/3KvmqDA So, you do NOT need a $200 audio interface. Technically you don't need one at all just for audio output to your studio monitors. But, if you want one to have a dedicated volume knob that's NOT on your computer, then I'd go with the UM2, it's only $45. I hope that helps, cheers!
@@MarcusHutsell thank you so much for replying me , sir ... I'm actually beginner muisc producer , looking forward to shifting to monitors from Headphone .... So I guess Having Interface is Ideal for music production which Every producers recommend ... Your recommendations were helpful and detailed.. Thank you for giving your time , I'm looking for to buying Yamaha HS series Monitor along with the One you mentioned , UM2 interface ... Thanks again
Good question, but, it appears that no, you cannot do that. I just tried it with 2 different USB power sources (USB Power Strip, and USB power brick), and neither would power on the unit.
Hi there. I have never used Bias FX2, but, the UM2 (or any USB audio interface) should work with any audio software. As long as the computer can see the interface, so should the software running on that computer
Hi there Alfred. Assuming the cloudlifer devices do their jobs and provide the amplified signal before it gets to the M-Track solo, then yes, that would work, because the louder/stronger signal from the cloudlifter will mean you won't have to gain up the input as much, never reaching that upper range and not getting into that "gain jump" area on the m-track solo's preamp.
is the pre-amp/gain issue really that bad though? when plugging a guitar or bass for example, most of the time you wouldnt be above 80% or so because you will be clipping anyways. Im using an UMC22 (not the um2 of this video) and its a great interface but I have issues with my clean guitar signal it doesnt sound as clear as it should, when strumming hard, it kind of distorts (not a problem when using amp sims for metal which is weird), also drivers issues, if you look at youtube with umc22 drivers there's a lot of issues. which is why i was looking at a replacement and the M-AUDIO looks like the best second option. i would of liked to see a guitar or bass with metal amp sims to see if the gain and signal is clear enough
Hi there. For me, yes the preamp noise and gain issue is something that just should NOT be there in any preamp. Again, the UM2 doesn't have any of those bad characteristics, and it's about the same price. So, if one company (Behringer) can do it for $50 and sound clean, then a competitor should be able to do the same. If you can't even slightly change the gain up/down without it introducing audible noise, then I wouldn't use that preamp. Maybe not every single M-Track solo does this, but at least 2 units that I tried had the same problems: the gain-jump at the higher end of the gain knob, and they added a dirty/fuzzy noise when simply turning the gain knob anywhere else along its path of travel. And you're right, if you're pushing any preamp above 80%, we all should be asking ourselves "why" and possibly look at a different mic, or any problems in the signal chain, but, occasionally we need to gain that high.......like for an SM58, it needs a lot of gain from ANY preamp, recording or in a live-environment. An SM58 is my go-to mic (mostly because I come from the live-audio world, concerts, corporate events, etc), and I always have a 58 around for quick testing, and since it needs a lot of gain, if a preamp is bad-quality, then testing it with an SM58 will immediately tell me if the preamp is noisy b/c I'm going to have to boost it way up and hear what the preamp is doing. As far as your issues with the UMC22, I'm not sure about that. I'm sure you're plugging it into the instrument input which has a higher impedance and should be able to more properly gain an instrument-level signal from your guitar. Not sure if you're using acoustic or electric guitar, but, obviously check simple things like the 9V battery (if acoustic guitar), and watch that clip-indicator on the UMC22, you might be clipping out the input and not know it. As far as drivers go, I'm in the Apple-Ecosystem, which usually means no drivers!! That's one thing I hate about using Windows and PC's. Cheers!
Hi there Antonio. According to the spec sheets, I believe you are right, the UM2 is only 16 bit. Good catch, that's not something I was looking at or testing, but definitely worth knowing.
I'd say it's not "who" boosts up to 95%, but, what equipment NEEDS to be boosted that much? In my case, for my office at work, I have an, albeit, cheap LyxPro CMG-50 shotgun mic that i use for virtual meetings. I have it boomed up just out of frame, which puts it about 14" away from me, and, with that mic, at that distance, with the UM2, my gain is DEFINITELY up near 95%. That combination needs that much gain to get a good signal into my computer. If I were to use the M-Track Solo, I'd run into that gain jump issue and probably wouldn't be able to use that combination. Other mics may required the same amount of gain like dynamic mics. The point is......yes, like you asked "Who gains to 95%???" And while it's not somewhere I ever LIKE to be on a gain knob......if I find that I NEED to be there, the preamp shouldn't "jump" up in level like the M-Track Solo. If Behringer can make their $45 preamp/interface clean all the way to 100%, there's no reason M-Audio can't do the same for $50. Yes, most of my setup at work is certainly budget, but that's all I needed. I'm not doing voiceovers for an audio book, I'm just having virtual meetings to get work done. And, for me, my set up with my UM2 works great. Hope that helps to answer "why" or "who" boosts that much ;)
Yeah, I’ve been hearing that. I haven’t been a Windows user for a long time, despite the fact that I still occasionally use windows for my work with live streaming and V-Mix, but we usually use Scarlet Solos & 2i2’s for audio input for work instead of the cheaper UM2. Good to know, thanks for the info.
Well, that means it is a generic usb audio device and works with other gear, too, and I would buy it exactly for that. In Win I use Asio4all for almost 20 years now and with the right tweaking and a bit of experimentation it works good.
@@georgeclarksonpenge You mean browsing in the background ? Yes, that won't work (with audio), and I am not unhappy about it. But apart from that, I rarely experienced crashes with or by Asio4all. I work with Reaper, Ableton Live, Cubase and Flstudio, from winXP to 11.
"Zero Direct Latency" is kind of a BIG lie, right? I mean musicians dont buy an audio interface to use as a "Headphone Amp". We want/need an interface for multitrack recording which is impossible with a 2 second delay. Im not sure if it matters if you buy a top o the line $500 interface. Nobody will be able to use this for multitrack. Ive been a musician for 50 yrs and made thousands of multitrack recordings and none of them were with my top of the line laptop w a videocard and 30 gigs of memory. I can playback 5 video sources with no lag with audio but just audio, No Way!!! what is up with that?
Hi there Richie. No, zero-direct-latency is not a big lie. Almost every USB audio interface I've owned in the past 18 years has a direct-monitor feature that allows you to hear your live, incoming mic signal in real-time, with legitimately zero latency. That's because all of those audio interfaces are sending/bussing the incoming mic signal directly to the headphone output on THE SAME interface, internally, in the interface itself. So, there's a hard-wired buss that goes from the input, directly to the headphone output (and usually the main outputs as well) of the interface. That's because those interfaces (and companies making them) realize that there's no way to monitor THROUGH the computer or software without latency. So, yes, in Adobe Audition, I can turn on the "monitor channel" and it will send my mic back to my headphones, but that's listening through the software, and it WILL be delayed, so I can't really monitor in real-time that way, but I can at least verify the signal is still clean when it gets to the software. I usually check there, then turn off the monitor feature in the software, and then turn ON the direct monitor feature on my interface if I need to hear myself. The Behringer Um2 has this, all the Scarlett interfaces, even my original Digidesign MBOX (Circa 2004) had a direct monitor feature. So, yes, and no. You can't monitor your effects from your software in real-time, but you CAN monitor your incoming, dry signal, in real time. I've multitracked my drums with M-Audio 8-channel input interfaces for years, and I play back my session from pro tools/audition, etc through the interface, and I also have the direct monitor feature on so I could hear my drums in real time, and that all worked and has worked just fine for many years. Again, just ensuring I don't have the "monitor" button pressed inside pro tools/audition. I'm not sure why you're getting a 2-second delay, I'm assuming you're monitoring through the software (?) and not using the direct monitor feature. I hope that has helped :)
Are you saying you're sorry about MY views and opinions in this video? I bought the M-audio M-track solo from Amazon, wasn't planning on even doing a video on it, but since I found the "gain jump" issue with the M-audio and since I have used several UM2's, figured I'd talk about it. Nobody sent me anything. This is my free time (currently). Granted, yes, I have affiliate links in the description which can help me out financially, but everyone has to put a roof over their heads......plus I really like filming, editing, and talking about audio, so, there's that. Cheers. :)
Behringer um2 tavsiye ederim ucuz ve kalitelidir referans kulaklıklar da monitörlerde öyle ucuz olduğu için sizi yanıltmasın her şeyin iyi pahalı olmak zorunda değildir stüdyom behringer markalı memnunum
better spend 50-75 dollars more and get a real entry level interface.. I think those both are not more than a toy.. I had the m audio and it was totally crap without monitor output
Yes, I've had an issue with (1) UM2 (out of about 20 that I've had access to), but, for a beginner who doesn't want to spend a lot of money, it's a good first choice that won't break the bank. And, I still use one weekly in my office at work for virtual meetings, so, for me, it still works great, going over 3 years for $25. Sure, there are more professional models that have more features and are more road worthy, but for fixed locations it's probably the best choice for a low price.
I Had Both They’re Trash 🚮 I Saved A Extra! $70 And And Got Something Better The Scarlett Solo Gen 3 Haven’t Looked Back Get You One You’ll Thank Me Later 😂☝️
Yes, I agree, the Focusrite's are a lot better in overall quality, (sound quality and build quality). But for some people just starting out, they're just looking for anything/something that can get them started, and for $45, it's hard to beat the UM2. I remember a long time ago when my budget was slim.......down-to-the-dollar every single month, and I think it's important for everyone to get what they can afford, as well as pick something that's at least decent, which is why I made this video, because yes, these are definitely BOTH budget (M-Audio, Behringer). I really just wish the Scarlett solo had a combo 1/4"/XLR jack for input 1 so you could feed mic-or-line level properly into input 1, But, I guess you do get the 1/4" jack on input 2. Aaaanyway, cheers!
Bro how do this video has so little likes and views.. great video man! Great job explaining the features of each interface it really helped me to choose which one may be more useful for me!
Hi Jonathan. Thank you very much, I'm very glad the video helped. I wasn't planning on making it until I got my M-Track solo and realized it wasn't very good, thought I'd warn everyone! In regards to your question about "so few likes," I don' t know, I've just been working on building my channel this year and plan on continuing to build it in 2022!! Again, I'm very glad the video helped you decide, good luck, and happy recording :)
Exactly
Read my mind. Great video.
hi Marcus. I'd like to thank you for making this review very clear and easy to understand. I decided to buy Behringer UM2 because of your video, and turns out, this is my best purchase for this year. Solid, easy to use, and very compact. Lot of thanks! Subscribed.
Hi there Awan. Awesome! Thank you for the kind words, and I'm very glad this video helped you, and that you're happy with your selection. Happy Recording and streaming, cheers!
Very nice review! Everything we need and nothing we don't! Thank you! :)
Glad it was helpful! And you’re welcome. :)
Great video, I'm glad to see that you focus on every little detail, most people don't care about these details but professionals do care about these things, glad you addressed it into your video.
Hi there, thank you so much, I really appreciate it. I always try to get down to the nitty-gritty, as I actually am USING the gear day-to-day, and I've been in audio/video production for a while, so, even though I do get to work with some higher end gear, I still also use budget gear where applicable. I'm glad the video helped, cheers!
I'm confusing which one to choose. Very helpful,thankful!
The crazy volume jump near 10 was also demonstrated in the other review I saw.
when i use the M-Audio Track Solo with my MX8500 it has the same issue. I only found one way to get rid of that static noise and big jump. I installed the driver for the interface and set the gain to around 9. Making sure that there is no static or the jump happening. And install the software for the Interface. Inside the interface i maxed out the buffersize and set the sample rate to 48000. Then i c=go to my sound settings in control panel and select the interface and max out the levels. This has worked for me, not sure if anyone else has done this?
Insane review. Let’s bybpass the incredible video quality n the crisp audio 😬🫣😳👏🏽
The review itself is INCREDIBLE. Just came here for this video but I just subscribed. Behringer UM2 does it for me. Thx man!
Thank you! I appreciate it. I'm glad the video helped, and thank you for the kind words. Happy recording and streaming!
This 1st good compare on youtube I ever see... Keep it up bro to make other compare video 🔥🔥🔥💪🏼
Hi there. thank you so much!! I'm glad the video helped. :)
Great video, Marcus. Definitely buying the UM2.
Thank you Abdulwahab! Have fun!
this is very helpful. i bought the Behringer UM2 in 2018 as a backup interface to Mbox mini which is now possibly causing some unwanted noise in my voiceover recordings but my Rode NT1 A is oldish too. started this home studio in 2013. wanting to upgrade my 2013 mac air to new M1 fanless/noiseless and want to keep my chain simple. 👍 trying to figure out thunderbolt ports now...
Awesome! Wow, the M-box! I also had one of those, I think we all did ;) Good luck on your upgrades!
Thanks for the very thorough review and comparison 👍
Glad it was helpful!
What's the best if you only record using your Android phone?
Hi Marcus, I'm setting up a studio in my house cheaply and this video helped me a lot, I chose um2, thank you very much for making such a nice and explanatory video
Hi there. That's great, I'm so glad the video helped! Good luck with your studio!
@@MarcusHutsell Thank you for your best wishes
Wish i found this review earlier.....the m-track solo is super-jumpy..i have a scarlett that is perfect, but the m-track solo was unusable for most of my mics..the audiobox-GO has the same issue! I was able to peg the gain to 10 and use the Sennheiser E835, a happy coincidence. The den is noisier than the booth so a stage dynamic is perfect. To do it all again, I would get the behringer UM2 or jump up to the Scarlett. M=track solo Note: with input-1 all the way up, turning down input-2 keeps the noise on input-1 way down.
Thanx Jaimes. Good tip on making sure input 2 is turned down if not using it. Happy Recording!
You pointed out the main issue. Nobody mentioned that 🔥👍🏼
;)
I am glad I found this comparison.
A musician friend is looking for a beginner's podcasting interface. I was going to recommend the Focusrite 2i2 interface/headphone/mic set, but that wouild cost him at least $300. Then I saw the M-Audio but decided to check out reviews. That noisy pre-amp issue is a dealbreaker. Thank you.
No problem!
Hi Marcus, UM2 & UMC22 has their own issues, and the main one is a lack of ASIO drivers for these cards. You can try ASIO4all, but it fails after some Windows updates, and there's no way to make it work any longer. Sure, it doesn't matter on Mac or Linux. But there I faced another disadvantage: on my UMC22 there wasn't enough gain to directly plug my guitar with Gold Foil pickup so I need to amplify it first, and it still required about 80% gain of the soundcard though the amp output sounded loudly in my headphones.
i get one um2, what did you think bout highnoise, using the native drivers from windows, and also using Asio4all that happens the gain disappears?
@@LuizFeijotheGuitar I'm not sure about noise, it rather depends on your microphone. Some soundcards are known to work noisy with dynamic ones. ASIO has been used to lower the latency.
@@Ardolynk i am using one sm57.
@@LuizFeijotheGuitar yes, it's dynamic, and I don't know how does UM2 handle it. I can hardly suggest anything yet, using UMC22 and Rode NT-1A on a Linux machine.
Purchased a UM2 two years ago, Works fine with Audacity but can't get the drivers for REAPER, and discover Behringer don't supply them!? For this reason I'm saving up for another unit... Anybody want to buy a UM2?
I used both. M Track Solo's Crystal Preamp blows Behringer away.
Hi there Richmond. Unfortunately in my tests of (2) different M-Track Solo units, both preamps were noisy when turning the gain knob, and they both had that sudden jump in gain at the end. Another user also commented that they experienced the same thing. So, because I tested 2 different units and they both displayed the same noisy preamp, I can only conclude that this model is just that way - cheap and noisy, or M-Audio has a quality control problem. Either way though, it still means there's most likely more of a chance that people will receive an M-Track solo that DOES have a noisy preamp. Whereas I've used about 15-20 different UM2 units in the past year and NONE of them have any issues, none of them have any noise in the preamps, and they all work great, so, Behringer seems to at least be shipping a more consistent product. However, I AM very glad that your version of the M-Track solo is working well for you. I wish mine didn't have the noisy issues and I would have kept it. Cheers!
@@MarcusHutsell Oh yeah the big jump of the noise in the gain knob's present and it's an issue that really is m track's big downside, I have that in my unit too. But it's not a big deal for me at least. I'm more concerned with sound quality of the preamp and that's where m audio's Crystal Preamp is a big win over Behringer Xenyx for me. But I hope so too that M Audio's 3rd iteration of the M Tracks will fix the issue of the gain knob. Thanks for your reply, man! Happy New Year!
And a purist would never "want" to use the pre-amp gain because there is a sweet spot for the pre-amp and if you need more pre-amp gain it's probably because you need to compensate for a weak mic/instrument signal. So assuming you don't, what you say applies.
@Maxotics @Maxotics Yeah, like I said in the video, no one should really ever "need" to be up that high on the preamp, but, if you did need to, it shouldn't behave that way. lways best to have plenty of headroom.
@@MarcusHutsell Thanks, yes, great video! Enjoyed it! My guess is we both agree, if you can't deliver, don't do it ;) I've never used any M-Audio stuff but have always thought my Behringer stuff great value for the money and works well.
I got a M-Track solo, plugged it in with my condenser microphone with my phantom power on, and both clip lights went red and wouldnt work, only heard a buzz coming from it, looked it up and other people had the same problem when using phantom power, it is unfixable and i had to return it and get a um2
Hi there. Honestly, based on the fact that I ALSO returned 2 m-track Solo's, I would return it. I haven't had any issues with the UM2. Seems like M-Audio quality has gone down hill. It never was really excellent-quality, but it was OK. Seems now it's just bad.
I solder my own cable and totally forgot about ground and would not gettin any signal... I was just wondering around then I saw your video not left right.... INSTANT LIKE AND SUBSCRIBE... Thank you!!!
Hi there Amhmet. Awesome, thank you so much, I'm glad some of my content helped you, cheers!
Excellent video! I am torn between the Behringer UM2 and UMC22 at the moment, would love your opinion on the UMC22 as well . I personally don't see the UMC22 being worth the extra 30€, because its pretty much identical to the UM2 in terms of sound quality
Thanks for the review. A comment and a like for the algorithm.
You are welcome, I'm very glad the video helped, and thank you!
Thanks Marcus for this! Great video and I learned a lot. I didn't know the UM2 exists and is way better that the M-Audio Solo which I am eyeing for a while as I am just a beginner. I plan to only record guitar parts though. Just noticed too that I am the 1000th subscriber haha More power and keep it up!
Thanks again!
Hi there Don. You are welcome, I'm so glad the video helped. I've got a couple of UM2's, and I use them a lot for work as well, it's one of the best little interfaces for $45! And YES, You are my 1,000th subscriber!! This is awesome, thank you so much!! I'm hoping this TH-cam thing can continue to take off for me and that I can provide valuable information to all of you, thank you again! 🎉🎈🍾🥳
I think a very important part that was missed in this video is that the Mtrack solo has it own dedicated drivers where as the UM2 doesnt, so the m track has much more stable and lower latency operation
whoa whoa whoa.. balanced != stereo. I thought I understood what balanced was and clearly I was COMPLETELY wrong. It may seem basic to you creative people but wading into this sphere this revelation kinda changes my understanding of what will and won't work for me. That little snippet was very useful thanks. Off to research land with me.
Hi there. Correct: Balanced audio signals on a single TRS 1/4" cable are NOT stereo audio signals......to get a balanced STEREO signal, you would need (2) independent cables going into (2) independent balanced inputs: Signal 1 = Left (XLR or TRS balanced), and Signal 2 = Right (XLR or TRS Balanced).
And, to get a properly balanced signal the equipment SENDING the signal has to balance it first before sending out of a 3-wire shielded cable.
So, yep, I'm glad that little snippet helped, good luck!
What headphones will you recommend for me? I’m using the beringer um2 and AT2020 microphone and I’m trying to get a headphone to just start my home studio
Thanks for the video.
Is it possible to use a mic on the Line 2 port of the M-Track, using a XLR to jack cable? Or will a mic only work on the XLR port?
Best greetings! :-)
Hi there. It's never great to try to adapt an XLR microphone to 1/4" connections. 1/4" inputs generally don't have the same mic-pre circuitry as an XLR mic-pre. For instance, on the UM2, trying to plug in an SM58 to the 1/4 instrument input with an adapter, I CAN get a signal if I turn the gain ALL the way up, but it's very weak. ON the m-Track Solo, the 2nd input is expecting a line-level signal (AKA a high/loud signal with high voltage amplitude and lots of current/push) or an instrument level signal (same amplitude of voltage usually, but very little current/push). But a microphone sends a low amplitude/voltage with a decent amount of current/push, and this just isn't "line" or "instrument" signal type, so, input 2 won't handle it well.....long story short, you'll probably get a signal if you use an XLR>1/4" adapter and gain up input 2, but you will most likely add more noise than you want, even if you boost in post, and it won't work with mics that need phantom power.
Excellent review
Thank you :)
Bruh is detailed about it . Subscribed!!!
Thank you Mahid!
Thank you for this video.
You’re welcome:)
Great video nice keep the good work up! God bless bro
Thank you Tavia!
Hello! I've been planning on buying a Behringer UMC22 interface (which a lot of reviews said it's better than the UM2). I would like to ask if the UMC22 is any better (or worse) than the M-Track Solo? I read a handful of reviews that the audio quality of M-Track Solo is much better than UMC22, but I'm pretty doubtful of it's build quality and longevity since it is full-on plastic, while on the other hand the UMC22 is much sturdier with its metal casing. Taking also into account the all-plastic casing of M-Track Solo would pretty much capture a lot of background interferance. Thanks in advance for your response 🫡
In the video he states his opinion that the UM2 is better than the M-audio solo. So if you think the UMC22 is better than the UM2 you've answered your own question.
Hi. I only worry about noise while recording. Is the focusrite solo gen 3 much better than the behringer. Thanks for the review man
Hi there. Long story short, yes, the Focusrite Solo is going to do you much better.
In general, the focusrite Scarlett's are "better" overall in terms of build-quality, can have lower noise (depending on your mic, etc), but I also have a Behringer UM2 and UMC-22, and both sound great, and I also have a 2i2, and the Behringer's sound fine next to them. The Behringer UM2 and UMC22 only do 16-bit depth, while the 202HD/404HD and the 2i2 will all do 48 bit. The Behringer models are less rugged, especially the UM2, as it's all plastic.
Check out Julian Krause's channel he does a lot of testing with these interfaces and has a lot more stats. www.youtube.com/@JulianKrause
The 2i2 has a different Analog-to-Digital converter in terms of this: The clip-light on most of the Behringer interfaces will CLIP-out before the software meters clip out. So, if you're ONLY watching your software (Adobe Audition, any DAW/recording software), then you may think you're find and NOT clipping, but your preamp on the interface may be in full-clip and you might not notice, and your audio would be ruined......so, always a reminder to keep an eye on the physical preamp's clip light on the interface, and never clip it out. And this means the Behringers will record a *slighly lower level into the computer overall. not much, but a bit lower than the Focusrite scarlett series.
All that to say, the Focusrite's are the better interface for durability, features, build-quality, and its preamps clip when the digital signal clips in software, so it's easier to NOT mess up with the Focusrite models
As long as you pay attention to gain structure and know how to route signal, you can avoid clipping, and then amplify your audio a bit in post or even live through software like OBS.
I hope that makes sense, cheers!
But as far as noise goes… I wouldn’t worry too much about a huge noise difference between a Beringer and a Scarlett, You’re going to be more limited by the microphone you choose then adding a lot of noise from either of these preamps
Wow. Thanks for the fast and detailed replies. Really appreaciate it man
Anyway thanks for the review of both them
You are welcome. :)
I am an aspiring voice actor, I'm still confused which is best for voice recording? Both are great though.
Hi there. In my opinion the Behringer is the better unit, simply because of the issue that I found on multiple versions of the M-Audio M-Track Solo. The gain on the M-Track solo "jumps" way up at the end/top of the gain knob, so, you may run into problems with your level jumping and clipping out. The UM2 doesn't have that problem and is clean all the way to maximum gain. So, I'd go for the UM2. Of course, then, you can use whatever XLR microphone you want. Good luck!
Hi ... really insightful video im also a drummer still a bit confused i have roland td4kp and for that im thinking to buy one will they be good for an electronic drum or i should go for midi ones .....
Hi there. If you want to run your drums into your computer and get stereo sound, I'd go for one of the other versions, specifically at least the Behringer UMC202HD, amzn.to/3U7mQW2, as that will give you (2) true, line-level inputs, which is best if you feed the Left/Right outputs from your td4kp over to an audio interface.
The only reason you'd need an interface with MIDI is if you want to use your Roland drum kit to cue sounds inside your audio software via MIDI.....using your electronic drums as a controller for other drum sounds that live in software on your computer.
If you just want to use the onboard sounds from the td4kp and record that......you don't need MIDI on your audio interface.
I hope that helps
I am on a search for beginner AI and i found this videos. Thank you! I wonder if UM2 will work great to record from e drum. Thanks again.
Hi there. If your electronic drum kit has a stereo (left/right) output, I'd probably get the next higher model, the Behringer UMC202 HD, as it has (2) proper mic/line inputs.
The UM2, although it has a 2nd 1/4" input. that input is "meant" for plugging in a guitar or bass directly. Granted, I have used input 2 to run a line-level signal into and, to my ears, it sounds fine, so, you may get by with the UM2, but the UMC202HD has (2) matching inputs which is better if you're trying to feed a stereo input into a USB interface.
Happy drumming and recording!
This one: amzn.to/3CLv7tp
Thank you for the reply. I will look at the link
Awesome. Thank you a lot!
You're welcome, I'm glad the video helped :)
Which of the two is the best audio interface sir
Which one is better for dt 770 pro 250ohm
Ps : i use it to mix/mastering
I need help please
Good job! What audio interface did you use to make this video (sounds great?) Also, would you recommend the Behringer for just recording vocals for podcast videos because that's the ONLY thing I'll be using it for. Thanks and keep the videos coming!
HI there Josh. Thank you. And, oddly enough, I didn't use either one to record this video. I probably should have, but my typical setup is this:
Rode VideoMic NTG running 1/8" cable out directly into my Panasonic GH5. So, my mic gets recorded directly into my camera and baked into the video file. I do, however, apply some post processing in Premiere like a little noise reduction, EQ, compression, and sometimes a De-Esser.
I primarily use my Um2 for virtual meetings at my office at work, where i have an inexpensive shotgun mic running into input 1, and I use the output for headphones. I also use the UM2 if I need to record some guitar.......which isn't often b/c I'm not a good guitar player! But, at least it offers that feature. Cheers!
Yeah, sounds really good. A friend gave me his Rode Podmic, so I'll probably just pair that with the Behringer and a Klark Teknik MIC BOOSTER CM-1 Dynamic Microphone Booster and see what I can come up with.
Thanks!
@@joshpankey1184 mm
@@MarcusHutsell hey Marcus what shotgun mic do you use for your meetings?
Hi Paulino. For my daily meetings at my office at work, I use a LyxPro CMG-50. I made a video about that mic. It's cheap enough, but sounds pretty good. Definitely has a decent amount of self-noise, but, I also show in my video how much the meeting platform can clean it up. It's perfect for my internal meetings where I need to sound better than my laptop mic, but not "radio broadcaster" good.
Link to my video on the LyxPro CMG-50: th-cam.com/video/HTON13FnLzw/w-d-xo.html
Great video. I have a Presonus Audiobox USB 96 interface and makes pops when clips, any idea of this issue, or the unit is just defective ?
Hi there. Thank you. I haven't used the Presonus interfaces (in a long time). Not sure *exactly what you mean when you say "Makes Pops when clips," but if the red "clip" light lights up on the front when you're using your mic, you're obviously clipping out the preamp, and yes, that will absolutely mean you get "pops" and "clips/clicks" in your audio. Watch that clip light and never go into red/clipping.
If you turn down your input gain to where that red light NEVER comes on when you're talking into your mic and you STILL Get pops-and-clips in your audio, it could be a driver issue (if using Windows) or a sample-rate mismatch somewhere. Hard to tell, but keep testing
Hey I'm confused... which audio interface should I buy which is budget friendly.. And suggest a good condenser mic also less budget..😁
Hi there. I'd go with the Behringer UM2. The "gain jump" issue that I talk about concerning the M-Audio M-Track Solo makes it worse in my opinion. The UM2 doesn't have any issues like that, so I'd go with the UM2. As far as condenser mics go, for starting out, the Audio Techica AT2020 is a great condenser mic for only $100. It's been around a while, it's not expensive, and has a great sound.
Hallo Markus! If I only record some podcasts for live streaming which one would be the best possible choice? Tnx buddy!
Hi there Samson. I honestly think that the Behringer UM2 is a much better unit, mainly because of that "gain jump" issue I talk about in the video. I have a mic that I use with the UM2 that requires a lot of gain, so I have to have the input gain on the UM2 way up near the top end. And I wouldn't be able to do that with the M-Audio M-Track solo because I'd be up near that 95% mark and the gain might "jump" and ruin my recording or meeting. So, if you're choosing between these 2 models, go with the UM2.
Thank you!
Hi Marcus, If I want to listen thru my amps, should I connect it using it's headphone port or output port and why? If it's outpout, is it left or right side?
Hi there. I would always try to use the output port first, so, the RCA, or 1/4" outputs on the back.
Headphone output ports can have different output impedances meant for headphones and that *Can (not always) affect the frequency response depending on what you have the headphone output going TO.
It should still work using the headphone output, but I'd always start with the mains-outputs.
Secondarily.....You ask if you should use the left OR the right side output.......but, what "amp" are you going TO? What kind of "amp" are you talking about exactly? And, is it a mono-input or does it only have a single audio input? If it only has a single/mono input, I'd get a Y-cable that takes the left-right out of the interface and joins it (properly) as a mono input on the other side of the y cable......but the specific cable you would need depends on the type of input your amp has.
Hi Marcus. I'm going to create home studio for recording my music. Now I'm looking for USB interface for home recording (to record vocal, guitar, bass) . Did Behringer UM2 good enough for my need? Or should I save more to buy Focusrite Scarlett Solo? Thank you
Hi there. The focusrite’s Scarlet interfaces are great as well. They are definitely better-built with metal exteriors. I have heard that they have issues with Windows computers, and that they are better on Apple computers, mainly due to not needing drivers with Apple computers. I’m an Apple-guy, and I do use Scarlett’s at work some. But honestly, the UM2 is a great little interface for only $45. The Scarlet Solo is more than twice the price and also does NOT have a combo 1/4”/XLR input on input 1. On the Scarlet solo, input 1 is XLR-only, but, most people are using input 1 for an xlr mic, but if you need to run a line level input into either the UM2 or scarlet solo, the UM2’s input 1 allows that more easily by using a 1/4” cable on input 1, because it’s expecting line level on input 1 when you use a 1/4” cable instead of an XLR Cable. So you do have that option with the UM2, however, with the Scarlet solo, you have the option on input 2 to do the same with the line/instrument switch.
The scarlet May last you longer if you plan to move or take the interface with you, since it’s metal it’s more road worthy, and it has flashier lights, but a lot of that is cosmetic. I totally like the look of the Scarlet interfaces, but, I went with a UM2 because it does exactly what I need for $45, and the preamp is clean.
Can you plug an amp connected to a guitar into the interface and record that way? Or do I need a mic? I’m a bit of a beginner haha
HI there. Yes, but here are some notes:
Most guitar amplifier OUTPUTS are line-level outputs. So, you might be better getting the M-Track Solo in this case because the M-Track Solo's 1/4" input is selectable between "Line" or "Guitar," and you'd want the "line" option on your interface if going from Amp-Output-to-USB-Interface. The Behringer's 1/4" input is "instrument" only, and, although it usually works with a "line level" signal, it's best to try to match signal types if possible.
You CAN also put a microphone in front of your amp and use the XLR input on either interface. This is very common in studio recording and you can also capture natural reverb of your room (if you want). I've done both, and often when recording you CAN do both, record the direct output/signal from the amp-output, AND add in some audio from a microphone sitting in front of that amp.
Long story short, the M-Track solo would be better for you in your case.
If you wanted an interface that's just a bit more robust, I'd get the Focusrite Scarlett Solo, much better built, will last you longer.
I am a rap artist, so bro please suggest ,which should I buy to record my vocals? M track or Um2 ????????
Hi there Kauser. If i were you and you were choosing between these 2 interfaces, I'd get the UM2. The UM2 will have less noise on the preamp and should be more effective in recording clean vocals. Godspeed, and good luck on your recording!
I want to buy this sound card for my electric guitar, but my computer has windows 11 operating system, will it cause a problem?
Hi there Ege. You should be just fine using this interface on a Windows computer. You'll just need to install the driver from Behringer, you can download it for free from the Behringer website, and you should be good to go after installing the driver.
www.behringer.com/downloads.html
Good luck!
Good morning sir, i want to buy best budget best qwality audio interface sir.. Give me A Suggestion sir..!! & I'm using behringer C3 microphone sir is it worth or suggeste me any other microphone sir.
Hi there. If you're just starting out, the UM2 is a very good first choice for an audio interface. Otherwise, the Behringer UMC202HDamzn.to/3U7mQW2 is a very quiet, clean interface, and will keep a lot of noise out of your recordings. The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is also very good.
As far as microphones go, the best thing to do is just decide if you like the sound of your current microphone. If you like the sound you're getting, there's no need to change mics. I've never used the Behringer C3 mic, but again, if it's working for you, keep using it!
@@MarcusHutsell Thank you so much for you are valuable Reply sir.
I have aproched many channels but no one replied to my comment but you given the valuable answer sir.
From INDIA..
I think the youtube algorithm gods bless me, found this video amid online shopping for one LOL. I hope I wont encounter those driver issues since i am using a windows machine
M AUDIO WINS... TRIED BOTH
Great! If it works for you, then it's the right tool. Cheers!
Hi Marcus (or anyone else reading), super late so I doubt I'll receive a response, but worth a shot I suppose. Recently my living situation has changed and I can no longer play my amp out loud. My amp doesn't have a headphone jack but it does have a line out. I'm looking to monitor and rarely record via this line out. I was initially drawn to the focusrite 2i2, but then read someone say the m-audio was better on a guitar forum. Then i started looking at the m-audio and saw the line level and instrument level switching and thought that was a nice feature. Now after this video I'm not so sure what to do. Do you know if the focusrite can receive line level from an amp? I can't seem to find this info and I don't know where to look or who to listen to as this is my first interface. Thanks
Hi there Lepus. Between the m-audio and focusrite, I would go with Focusrite. Much better built unit. M-audio seems to have gotten cheaper and cheaper. The company I work for.......we have about (30) Foscrite 2i2's on our shelf that get used very often for lots of stuff, and no complaints there, they work great and are metal so they can travel (a bit) better (although always use a case for transport).
It's been a LONG time since I've tried running a guitar amp into an audio interface, so I can't remember the exact output type of an amp,.......however, the 2i2 still has the switchable line/instrument on both inputs. So, honestly, I'd go with the 2i2. You can use the XLR input on either of the XLR-1/4" combo inputs if you're using a microphone, you can use the 1/4" input (again, on EITHER of the XLR-1/4" combo inputs) if your guitar amp is sending a balanced signal, and you can then switch it to "instrument" if you want to plug your guitar in directly.
As far as line-vs-instrument coming out of your guitar amp, it really depends on what type of signal your amp is actually sending out: Balanced Line-level, or unbalanced line level, or unbalanced instrument level.
But I think the 2i2 would be able to handle any of those 3 options.
The 2i2 is going to last you a lot longer, and I think ultimately you'd be happier with it.
I hope that helps, cheers!
hi, there is one that its called st if2 soundtrack 24 bit do you recommend that? or the behr?
Hi there. I'm not familiar with the ST interfaces, but I tend not to trust "no name" brands, but it may be just fine. I don't have any issues with the Behringer UM2 or UMC22, despite the fact that they're "only" 16 bit. 16 bit is fine for most things.
If you really want 24 bit, I'd save up and just get the Focusrite Scarlett Solo. You can still find the Gen3 Scarlett Solo for around $100 (whereas the Gen 4 is about $140).
Or, there are other Behringer Interfaces that do 24 bit: the UMC202HD, the UMC204HD, and the UMC404HD:
I'd steer clear of the UMC202HD because the "direct monitor" feature is ONLY in stereo, so if you only have a mic in input 1, it will ONLY be in your left headphones. But the 204HD has a stereo/mono button for direct monitor, AND, the 204HD is only $80. Yes, more than $50, but less than a Scarlett Solo.
But, personally, I'm staying away from M-Audio at this point, mainly b/c of that Gain-jump issue, preamps should NOT do that.
@@MarcusHutsell yes i returned the m audio i did have a weird cut sound and in the headphones,do You hear super difference between the 16 vs 24 bit?
Behringer is Great hardware BUT THIRD CLASS WHEN IT COMES TO DRIVER SUPPORT: website provided drivers dosent work. TH-cam user provided works but Wont detect it as Line-in
hey marcus i already bought the maudio interface,can i make it work?
Hi there. Yes, absolutely, the interface itself should work just fine, you may just want to use a mic, like a condenser mic, that doesn't need as much gain so you aren't at the top of that gain knob range.
And this particular "gain jump" issue is another important reminder to always "avoid extremes," with your gear. If you HAVE to be up at that top-end (or bottom-end) of a control dial......maybe something else is wrong and it's something to investigate.
I talk about that in this video: th-cam.com/video/H9G5TR4m5gQ/w-d-xo.html
Cheers!
hi marcus which one of those has good headphones output?? can um2 drive 80 ohms headphones ??
HI there. Both the headphone outputs on these devices are fine and can drive almost any headphones. I'm currently using the UM2 with my Beyer Dynamic DT770, 80-ohm headphones, and it gets way louder than I'll ever need (if I want to keep my hearing). You should be just fine with either, but I do recommend the UM2 over the M-Track solo because of the input-gain issue on the M-Track solo. Good luck!
Hey marcus I'm a rapper and producer and i need a interface for my home studio setup and recently i bought behringer c1 which is a better microphone for my home studio but I'm bit confused for the interface i want to buy um but can you please tell me which one I'll chose ??
Hi there! Honestly, for longterm use and rock-solid quality, I'd spend just a bit more money and go with at least the Focusrite Scarlett Solo. They have quiet preamps, have a metal-housing, have more modern USB-C ports, and will last you longer. If you want a separate volume knob for the main output and one for your headphones, then go with the Scarlett 2i2.
The UM2 is great if you really are on a tight budget, but I have had at least one have some breakaage inside, but that was due to it being tossed around in a road case when traveling.
Good luck!
Help me please. I'm using an unbalanced cable (only two wires instead of three) with XLR mic connectors. I have one wire connected to hot, the second is connected to cold and shorted with shielding. Can I use this cable with an audio interface to connect a dynamic microphone?
I just read somewhere that it is not recommended to short the cold and ground wires due to the peculiarity of the phantom power supply. But for a dynamic microphone, I don't need to turn it on.
If I use this cable with phantom power off, will I break the audio interface?
Hi there. Well, you're right, I certainly would't turn the phantom power ON while using that cable. But you won't break the audio interface by just using that cable. It may not work as you think it would, because the XLR input is looking for a balanced signal, but as long as phantom power isn't on, you shouldn't hurt anything.
Question, why exactly are you using an unbalanced cable?
Do they work on Linux?
I have NOOOOOO idea. I gave up on trying to be a Linux guy around the year 2003 when I got it all installed on a 2nd partition on my computer......but couldn't do much with it at that time due to there just not being a lot of drivers or software for anything......so,........great! I have Linux installed, but now what?!?! ha!
Good luck :)
Sir can I use behringer/ m- audio with shure sm 58 / se electronics v7 ...? Please reply 🙏
Hi there. Yes, you can use any audio interface that has a mic preamp with a Shure SM58 or the V7. I use an SM58 with my UM2 all the time.
Difference 4: does that mean one of them gives a clearer output for your headphones or both are equally clear with headphones sound?
Hi there. I didn't thoroughly test the headphone output, especially since I sent the M-Audio back really quickly because I wasn't going to keep it with that "gain jump" issue I talk about. But, I don't recall the headphone outputs being any different in sound quality.
@@MarcusHutsell thanks a lot, I appreciate your answer!
@@emperomassinencambio...9941 You're welcome :)
İm going to use on my mic what should i pick
Hi there. I would not get the M-Audio at all.
Also, I've heard the Behringer drivers for PC can be a pain sometimes.
Honestly, I'd probably try to save up and go for at least the Focusrite Scarlett Solo.
But, if you're choosing between these 2, I'd go for the UM2.
Can we record internally with these units?
No these are not standalone audio recorders. They’re just way to digitize audio to get into your computer then you can record with software.
@@MarcusHutsell thank you, I think I will have to go with a field recorder then but I worry about the power and the battery. If you have any recomandation for an other all in one solution (including an interface), pleas let me know. Thank you
Hello there! Cn u help me what to choose for elec.guitar recording ? Tnx
Hi there. I'd always choose the Behringer UM2 over the M-Track Solo. The M-Track solo has a gain-jump issue near the top-end of each of the gain knobs, whereas the Behringer is clean all the way up. You can plug the electric guitar directly into input 2 for a clean elec. gtr sound. Of course, if you're playing through an amplifier with distortion, reverb, etc, then just put a microphone on the amp (SM57) and run that mic into input 1 to record. Either way, I'd always choose the UM2 as a great budget audio interface.
hi, I've bought a while ago the UM2 (and unfortunately I'm over the return window). I use it only to connect my headphones to different consoles since they don't require any driver, but I've noticed that if put the audio at more than 50%, I can hear some white noise in the background (it's not a "spike" whenever I'm turning the knob, it's constantly in the background)
is this to be expected or would you suggest buying another one? I'm sorry if I'm not really know a lot about technical terms!
Hi there Alessio. So, it depends, and it's hard for me to tell how that noise sounds since I can't listen. But, it could be coming from a few different places or issues.
I'm also curious as to exactly how you're hooking up the UM2 to a console. Are you just using the USB Port to provide POWER To the UM2 and then feeding in an XLR or 1/4" to the UM2 from your console? Let me know, I'm curious.
So, as far as noise goes, it could be a couple of things:
#1. If your gain structure on your audio console is low on the input preamps of your channels.....then your audio signals running through your console may be very low and close to the console's noise floor, and as they get bussed-around in the console and processed (compressor, EQ, buss-sends, stereoo left/right buss,, etc), then you could just have improper gain structure at your inputs.......aka, noisy audio in the console, and if that's the case, and then you send that out of the console, you'll be boosting the console's noise, as well as any more noise added by the UM2 (depending on if you're using the 1/4" or XLR option on Input 1 of the UM2).
#2, there might be a problem with your UM2.
Oddly enough, I started having a strange issue in ONE of the several UM2's that I use (we have about 15 of them at my work for live/virtual event production). And, I just happened to plug one in the other day and I heard this noise that shouldn't be there, it was kind of this, always-present interference noise. So, I tried changing some things and even used a different computer, but the same results, this unwanted noise. And this wasn't just white or pink noise or hiss, it was much more of a kind of mix of white noise with some garbled stuff, sounded like some sort of wireless interference. So I grabbed another UM2 and it did not have the same problem. Then I started searching and came across this video (different model, the UMC22, but I was experiencing the same issue on the UM2): th-cam.com/video/aTa2B21qGAY/w-d-xo.html
Now, that guy had to replace a resistor, and for a $45 UM2, I'm not that good at soldering those small parts!
So, check your gain structure first. If you are hearing the noise even without anything plugged in to the UM2, the UM2 might be broken.
And, this is one of the things I touch on briefly in this video, that the UM2, being made of plastic, *might not be as road-worthy as other interfaces if it gets tossed around.
And I think the one that I'm having issues with was probably just that: It got tossed around a lot in our shop, in/out of road cases, and something inside just broke.
If you're going to replace it and are transporting it around.....I'd probably go with a little more sturdy interface, maybe a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2, they've got a metal housing and can be a bit more robust.....but I'd still transport it in a case either way.
Let me know your signal flow and if you have any noise with the UM2 WITHOUT an audio input plugged into it.
hi am new to this .i just got m audio duo ..and i find out it only record stereo which the sound only come out either left or right ..am using i just want mono ..i dont play instrument only record vocal..so if i buy the um 2 it wont have this problem right ??as it only have one chanel....
Hi there. Actually, you can record in mono using the m-audio Duo, you don't need to return it. Recording into your computer and getting either mono or stereo recordings, depends on the software you're using and HOW you set it up. For instance, if you are using Garageband or Adobe Audition (or really any software), you have to tell that input track WHICH input to use. Sometimes if you add a "stereo" audio track, and hit record, that stereo audio track is most likely using "input 1" as the left and "input 2" as the right. So, that's most likely how you are hearing audio "only on the left." Again, it depends on the software you're using and setting up the inputs correctly. You can tell any software to use input 1 only, and record a mono track. The UM2 also technically has 2 inputs, an XLR input and a 1/4" instrument input, so, it will behave the same way.........you can select input 1 or 2, or both if you're recording into a stereo track.
So, try to check all the settings in your software, you should be able to select "input 1" only.
@@MarcusHutsell Thank you so much for the reply.My situation is I'm no professional on this and I just want to record video use my cellphone I have condenser USB mic That works without any problem. But I just want to try out the dynamic if I use xlr to USB cable the mic is not loud enough, so I need to have interface, but with interface if I just use cellphone am not able to setup mono, so How u record video with dynamic mic? record video use camera or dslr AND using professional software record vocal only so u can set mono and after everything match the video AND audio? Is there any way I can record the video and the audio at the same time and using dynamic mic?
Greast video , I just recieved an M-Audio Duo and it does the same as what you described only worst !
Yeah, I'm pretty much done with M-Audio gear. I used it for a while about 10 years ago because Pro Tools and M-Audio partnered so you could use M-Audio hardware with Pro Tools. Worked well for me back then and I had a much more expensive M-Audio 8-channel Firewire mic preamp for my drums, but these small interfaces seem to just be low quality now.
@@MarcusHutsell Yes they are and the latency is terrible ! Will find something else !
Who uses M-Track Solo on a Windows 11 pc here? How do you run it?
First of all you have to intsall the drivers from Behringer. This is one thing about using PC's/Windows.....you have to install drivers for many audio cards.
You can search for your model on the Behinger website here www.behringer.com/downloads.html and download the .exe ASIO drivers.
Start there, then reboot your PC,
can i use these to record a syinth??
Hi there. If your synth has a balanced 1/4" line-out, then yes. Or, if your synth has a headphone jack then you can get a splitter cable and use the (stereo) headphone jack on the synth to go into inputs 1 and 2 of either device.
Hello sir .... Is there any Sound Card only dedicated for Studio Monitors ? Which is the best cheapest Audio interface for monitors .....
I can't afford those hilariously expensive interfaces like 200$ just to power up monitors
Hi Natalie. Well, if you're using studio monitors that have a built-in amplifier in the speaker (like most studio monitors do), you actually *don't Need an additional interface. Since the amplifier is in the speakers, they are expecting a line-level signal, and, you can just use the 1/8" headphone jack of your computer and get proper cable to take the stereo signal from the 1/8" headphone jack on your computer and get to the left, and right speakers accordingly. Then, you can just use the volume buttons on your computer to control the operating system volume, which will send signal out of the headphone jack and to the speakers, then, the speakers will amplify the signal just fine. Again, assuming your speakers are regular studio monitors with built-in amplifiers.
So, if I were going to do this, I have the Presonus Eris E5's, which have RCA, 1/4", or XLR inputs. Therefore, I could get a 1/8" (3.5mm) to dual XLR cable like this amzn.to/3MATEmm, and just go directly to the speakers. That's because this cable will properly send the left signal to one of the XLR-ends on the cable, and the right signal to the other XLR-end. And I'd be just fine, and I could use the volume on my laptop to control the overall volume coming out of the speakers. The only thing you need to worry about is to not run these cables to far, because the signal is unbalanced with this splitter cable, and the longer the cables, the more noise can get into the signal and end up at your speakers.
The second option would just be to use something like the Behringer UM2 as a master controller for your speakers. For $45, you can use the outputs of the UM2 (RCA outputs on the back of the UM2), and then run an RCA cable over to your speakers. Then just use the output knob of the UM2 to control the volume to the speakers. You'd just, obviously, have to tell your computer to use the UM2 as your master audio-output device.
If your spekaers have RCA inputs, that's easy. If they do NOT have RCA inputs, you'd just need cables that are RCA-to-1/4" or RCA-to-XLR to ensure you can actually get your signal into your computer.
RCA to RCA: amzn.to/3kpHdhe
RCA to 1/4" amzn.to/3s1YlxN
RCA to XLR: amzn.to/3KvmqDA
So, you do NOT need a $200 audio interface. Technically you don't need one at all just for audio output to your studio monitors. But, if you want one to have a dedicated volume knob that's NOT on your computer, then I'd go with the UM2, it's only $45.
I hope that helps, cheers!
@@MarcusHutsell thank you so much for replying me , sir ... I'm actually beginner muisc producer , looking forward to shifting to monitors from Headphone ....
So I guess Having Interface is Ideal for music production which Every producers recommend ... Your recommendations were helpful and detailed..
Thank you for giving your time , I'm looking for to buying Yamaha HS series Monitor along with the One you mentioned , UM2 interface ...
Thanks again
You're welcome. Great choice (Yamaha) for some studio monitors!
Um2 is it possible to use it without pc; stand alone use to the amplifier;
Good question, but, it appears that no, you cannot do that. I just tried it with 2 different USB power sources (USB Power Strip, and USB power brick), and neither would power on the unit.
Does m audio work with bias fx2?
Hi there. I have never used Bias FX2, but, the UM2 (or any USB audio interface) should work with any audio software. As long as the computer can see the interface, so should the software running on that computer
Thanks
You're welcome :)
Hi Marcus! Nice review man! Do you think getting a cloudlifter/mic booster would solve the issue of the m-track solo?
Hi there Alfred. Assuming the cloudlifer devices do their jobs and provide the amplified signal before it gets to the M-Track solo, then yes, that would work, because the louder/stronger signal from the cloudlifter will mean you won't have to gain up the input as much, never reaching that upper range and not getting into that "gain jump" area on the m-track solo's preamp.
is the pre-amp/gain issue really that bad though? when plugging a guitar or bass for example, most of the time you wouldnt be above 80% or so because you will be clipping anyways.
Im using an UMC22 (not the um2 of this video) and its a great interface but I have issues with my clean guitar signal it doesnt sound as clear as it should, when strumming hard, it kind of distorts (not a problem when using amp sims for metal which is weird), also drivers issues, if you look at youtube with umc22 drivers there's a lot of issues.
which is why i was looking at a replacement and the M-AUDIO looks like the best second option. i would of liked to see a guitar or bass with metal amp sims to see if the gain and signal is clear enough
Hi there. For me, yes the preamp noise and gain issue is something that just should NOT be there in any preamp. Again, the UM2 doesn't have any of those bad characteristics, and it's about the same price. So, if one company (Behringer) can do it for $50 and sound clean, then a competitor should be able to do the same. If you can't even slightly change the gain up/down without it introducing audible noise, then I wouldn't use that preamp. Maybe not every single M-Track solo does this, but at least 2 units that I tried had the same problems: the gain-jump at the higher end of the gain knob, and they added a dirty/fuzzy noise when simply turning the gain knob anywhere else along its path of travel.
And you're right, if you're pushing any preamp above 80%, we all should be asking ourselves "why" and possibly look at a different mic, or any problems in the signal chain, but, occasionally we need to gain that high.......like for an SM58, it needs a lot of gain from ANY preamp, recording or in a live-environment. An SM58 is my go-to mic (mostly because I come from the live-audio world, concerts, corporate events, etc), and I always have a 58 around for quick testing, and since it needs a lot of gain, if a preamp is bad-quality, then testing it with an SM58 will immediately tell me if the preamp is noisy b/c I'm going to have to boost it way up and hear what the preamp is doing.
As far as your issues with the UMC22, I'm not sure about that. I'm sure you're plugging it into the instrument input which has a higher impedance and should be able to more properly gain an instrument-level signal from your guitar. Not sure if you're using acoustic or electric guitar, but, obviously check simple things like the 9V battery (if acoustic guitar), and watch that clip-indicator on the UMC22, you might be clipping out the input and not know it.
As far as drivers go, I'm in the Apple-Ecosystem, which usually means no drivers!! That's one thing I hate about using Windows and PC's.
Cheers!
UM2 is 16 bit isn't it? And M-Audio is 24 bit.
Hi there Antonio. According to the spec sheets, I believe you are right, the UM2 is only 16 bit. Good catch, that's not something I was looking at or testing, but definitely worth knowing.
Who boosts 95% ?
I'd say it's not "who" boosts up to 95%, but, what equipment NEEDS to be boosted that much? In my case, for my office at work, I have an, albeit, cheap LyxPro CMG-50 shotgun mic that i use for virtual meetings. I have it boomed up just out of frame, which puts it about 14" away from me, and, with that mic, at that distance, with the UM2, my gain is DEFINITELY up near 95%. That combination needs that much gain to get a good signal into my computer. If I were to use the M-Track Solo, I'd run into that gain jump issue and probably wouldn't be able to use that combination.
Other mics may required the same amount of gain like dynamic mics. The point is......yes, like you asked "Who gains to 95%???" And while it's not somewhere I ever LIKE to be on a gain knob......if I find that I NEED to be there, the preamp shouldn't "jump" up in level like the M-Track Solo.
If Behringer can make their $45 preamp/interface clean all the way to 100%, there's no reason M-Audio can't do the same for $50.
Yes, most of my setup at work is certainly budget, but that's all I needed. I'm not doing voiceovers for an audio book, I'm just having virtual meetings to get work done. And, for me, my set up with my UM2 works great.
Hope that helps to answer "why" or "who" boosts that much ;)
@@MarcusHutsell yes that explains it. In that case I wouldn't be using that unit. Thanks for your reply.
well done bro///.....
Thank you!
9:45 Something's seriously wrong with the re-amp. It's not even gaining much as you're sweeping through. Then, that jump.
Never bought anything from Behringer that was good
I have had good-and-bad luck here and there with Behringer Equipment. But, honestly most of the time it's been pretty good for my uses.
no asio driver for the um2 although you can find an older one , that’s a dealbreaker for me on windows . solo wins
Yeah, I’ve been hearing that. I haven’t been a Windows user for a long time, despite the fact that I still occasionally use windows for my work with live streaming and V-Mix, but we usually use Scarlet Solos & 2i2’s for audio input for work instead of the cheaper UM2. Good to know, thanks for the info.
Well, that means it is a generic usb audio device and works with other gear, too, and I would buy it exactly for that. In Win I use Asio4all for almost 20 years now and with the right tweaking and a bit of experimentation it works good.
@@georgeclarksonpenge You mean browsing in the background ? Yes, that won't work (with audio), and I am not unhappy about it. But apart from that, I rarely experienced crashes with or by Asio4all. I work with Reaper, Ableton Live, Cubase and Flstudio, from winXP to 11.
"Zero Direct Latency" is kind of a BIG lie, right? I mean musicians dont buy an audio interface to use as a "Headphone Amp". We want/need an interface for multitrack recording which is impossible with a 2 second delay. Im not sure if it matters if you buy a top o the line $500 interface. Nobody will be able to use this for multitrack. Ive been a musician for 50 yrs and made thousands of multitrack recordings and none of them were with my top of the line laptop w a videocard and 30 gigs of memory. I can playback 5 video sources with no lag with audio but just audio, No Way!!! what is up with that?
Hi there Richie. No, zero-direct-latency is not a big lie. Almost every USB audio interface I've owned in the past 18 years has a direct-monitor feature that allows you to hear your live, incoming mic signal in real-time, with legitimately zero latency. That's because all of those audio interfaces are sending/bussing the incoming mic signal directly to the headphone output on THE SAME interface, internally, in the interface itself. So, there's a hard-wired buss that goes from the input, directly to the headphone output (and usually the main outputs as well) of the interface. That's because those interfaces (and companies making them) realize that there's no way to monitor THROUGH the computer or software without latency. So, yes, in Adobe Audition, I can turn on the "monitor channel" and it will send my mic back to my headphones, but that's listening through the software, and it WILL be delayed, so I can't really monitor in real-time that way, but I can at least verify the signal is still clean when it gets to the software. I usually check there, then turn off the monitor feature in the software, and then turn ON the direct monitor feature on my interface if I need to hear myself. The Behringer Um2 has this, all the Scarlett interfaces, even my original Digidesign MBOX (Circa 2004) had a direct monitor feature.
So, yes, and no. You can't monitor your effects from your software in real-time, but you CAN monitor your incoming, dry signal, in real time.
I've multitracked my drums with M-Audio 8-channel input interfaces for years, and I play back my session from pro tools/audition, etc through the interface, and I also have the direct monitor feature on so I could hear my drums in real time, and that all worked and has worked just fine for many years. Again, just ensuring I don't have the "monitor" button pressed inside pro tools/audition.
I'm not sure why you're getting a 2-second delay, I'm assuming you're monitoring through the software (?) and not using the direct monitor feature.
I hope that has helped :)
♥
Sorry to say this but I'm a bit skeptical about the "neutrality" of popular reviewers.
Are you saying you're sorry about MY views and opinions in this video? I bought the M-audio M-track solo from Amazon, wasn't planning on even doing a video on it, but since I found the "gain jump" issue with the M-audio and since I have used several UM2's, figured I'd talk about it. Nobody sent me anything. This is my free time (currently). Granted, yes, I have affiliate links in the description which can help me out financially, but everyone has to put a roof over their heads......plus I really like filming, editing, and talking about audio, so, there's that. Cheers. :)
@@MarcusHutsell I see now, you're right. I changed my mind, new follower here.
Behringer um2 tavsiye ederim ucuz ve kalitelidir referans kulaklıklar da monitörlerde öyle ucuz olduğu için sizi yanıltmasın her şeyin iyi pahalı olmak zorunda değildir stüdyom behringer markalı memnunum
Meglio la focursite ? By italy
better spend 50-75 dollars more and get a real entry level interface.. I think those both are not more than a toy.. I had the m audio and it was totally crap without monitor output
Yes, I've had an issue with (1) UM2 (out of about 20 that I've had access to), but, for a beginner who doesn't want to spend a lot of money, it's a good first choice that won't break the bank. And, I still use one weekly in my office at work for virtual meetings, so, for me, it still works great, going over 3 years for $25. Sure, there are more professional models that have more features and are more road worthy, but for fixed locations it's probably the best choice for a low price.
mihalis papakaliatis
Behringer UM2 IS NOT SUPPORTED ANY MORE NO SUPPORT IN WIN11 WIN10 SOO IF YOU BUY IT YOU ARE ON YOUR OWN LUCK
I Had Both They’re Trash 🚮 I Saved A Extra! $70 And And Got Something Better The Scarlett Solo Gen 3 Haven’t Looked Back Get You One You’ll Thank Me Later 😂☝️
Yes, I agree, the Focusrite's are a lot better in overall quality, (sound quality and build quality). But for some people just starting out, they're just looking for anything/something that can get them started, and for $45, it's hard to beat the UM2. I remember a long time ago when my budget was slim.......down-to-the-dollar every single month, and I think it's important for everyone to get what they can afford, as well as pick something that's at least decent, which is why I made this video, because yes, these are definitely BOTH budget (M-Audio, Behringer).
I really just wish the Scarlett solo had a combo 1/4"/XLR jack for input 1 so you could feed mic-or-line level properly into input 1, But, I guess you do get the 1/4" jack on input 2. Aaaanyway, cheers!
According to your opinion, which one is better from those two?
@@memoresmen16 I went with the UM2. Per my video, that "gain jump" issue on the upper end of the m-Audio is not acceptable.
hhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
Thanks
You're welcome!