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

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

Portable High-Resolution Audio Interface

The USBPre 2 is a high-resolution, portable class-compliant USB audio interface for Mac- and Windows-based computers. It boasts professional sonic performance and flexible connectivity for dynamic/condenser microphones, line-level sources, consumer audio electronics, and S/PDIF digital sources.

Precision Microphone Preamplifiers

USBPre 2 includes two discrete-transistor microphone preamps with 24-bit converters and sampling rates up to 192 kHz. These preamplifiers provide immense gain up to 80 dBu and ultralow noise of -127 dB EIN. Their topology is shared with Sound Devices' award-winning 744T digital audio recorder. Peak limiters, high-pass filters, and a -15 dB pad provide overload protection. All analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog conversion is performed by the USBPre 2 for superior audio performance.

Computer Connectivity

The interface allows simple plug-and-play connection to computers running macOS, Windows, and Linux via the included USB Type-B to Type-A cable. There are no drivers to install for the USBPre 2 and there are no software-only features. All additional controls and settings are available on back panel DIP switches. The USB port also provides power to the unit, both when connected as an audio interface and when used in standalone operation.

As a class-compliant audio device, the USBPre 2 is limited to a maximum data rate of 24-bit / 48 kHz in Windows, Linux, and Mac OS versions 10.4 to 10.5.7. Mac OS 10.5.8 or later support the audio class 2.0 device and can address the USBPre 2 up to 24-bit / 192 kHz.

Flexible I/O

To ensure flexible input connectivity, the USBPre 2 offers balanced XLR mic inputs, balanced 1/4" line inputs, an unbalanced stereo RCA aux input, and stereo S/PDIF inputs (on coaxial and optical ports).

Its primary outputs include balanced mic- or line-level on XLR, unbalanced consumer line-level on RCA, and S/PDIF (on coaxial and optical ports). Additionally, there is an onboard headphone amplifier that feeds 1/4" and 3.5mm headphone outputs. Two output controls are provided—one controls the RCA aux and XLR main outputs, and the other controls the headphone outputs. The headphone output can be set to mono or stereo for monitoring convenience.

Informative Metering

Accurate signal level metering is essential for any sound engineer. The USBPre 2 includes a 23-segment, multicolor LED meter for precise level indication. The meter is switchable between input signal metering and playback signal metering and it indicates both VU and peak (PPM) ballistics.

Field-Tested Reliability

Like all Sound Devices products, the USBPre 2 is designed to stand up to the most demanding environments. Its extruded aluminum chassis and panels, machined knobs, metal connectors, and laser-etched nomenclature are designed to hold up to years of abuse.

Standalone Operation

The USBPre 2 can be used in standalone mode where it operates as a high-quality portable microphone preamplifier and analog-to-digital converter. Digital signals connected to the USBPre 2 are converted to analog and available at the headphone, XLR, and RCA outputs. Standalone operation requires the unit to be connected to a USB power source. Standalone mode is a great option when an additional microphone preamplifer, A-D converter, or D-A converter is required.