Sound Devices USB-Pre 2

Overview

Built upon the renowned 788T recorder’s topology and tested for reliability in the field, the Sound Devices USBPre 2 is a portable 2×2 USB audio interface offering simplicity and high resolution to field mixers and location sound recordists. It seamlessly connects professional microphones, line-level sources, consumer audio electronics, and S/PDIF digital sources to Mac, Windows, or Linux computer systems.

Featuring two high-gain discrete-transistor microphone preamps and 24-bit/192 kHz converters, the USBPre 2 ensures exceptional quality wherever you go. Setting it apart from typical 2×2 interfaces, it includes peak limiters, high-pass filters, and input pads to prevent overloads and ensure pristine signal recording. With balanced XLR mic/line outputs, unbalanced RCA aux outputs, S/PDIF digital outs, and two headphone ports (1/4″ and 3.5mm), it provides comprehensive connectivity for optimal monitoring and routing. Additionally, the USBPre 2 can operate in standalone mode, serving as an additional mic preamp or AD/DA converter when a computer is not available.

Portable High-Resolution Audio Interface

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

Precision Microphone Preamplifiers

The USBPre 2 features two discrete-transistor microphone preamps with 24-bit converters and sampling rates up to 192 kHz. These preamps offer substantial gain up to 80 dBu and ultra-low noise of -127 dB EIN. They share the topology of Sound Devices’ award-winning 744T digital audio recorder. Peak limiters, high-pass filters, and a -15 dB pad provide protection against overloads. All analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog conversion is handled by the USBPre 2 for superior audio performance.

Computer Connectivity

Connection to computers running macOS, Windows, and Linux is hassle-free with the included USB Type-B to Type-A cable. No drivers are required for the USBPre 2, and there are no software-only features. All additional controls and settings are accessible via back panel DIP switches. The USB port also supplies power to the unit, whether connected as an audio interface or used in standalone mode. As a class-compliant audio device, the USBPre 2 supports 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 supports the audio class 2.0 device and can address the USBPre 2 up to 24-bit / 192 kHz.

Flexible I/O

For versatile 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).

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’s an onboard headphone amplifier feeding 1/4″ and 3.5mm headphone outputs. Two output controls are provided — one for RCA aux and XLR main outputs, and another for headphone outputs. The headphone output can be configured to mono or stereo for monitoring convenience.

Informative Metering

Accurate signal level metering is crucial for sound engineers. The USBPre 2 features a 23-segment, multicolor LED meter for precise level indication. The meter is switchable between input signal metering and playback signal metering and displays both VU and peak (PPM) ballistics.

Field-Tested Reliability

Designed to withstand demanding environments like all Sound Devices products, the USBPre 2 features an extruded aluminum chassis and panels, machined knobs, metal connectors, and laser-etched nomenclature, ensuring durability even under years of heavy use.

Standalone Operation

In standalone mode, the USBPre 2 functions as a high-quality portable microphone preamplifier and analog-to-digital converter. Digital signals connected to the USBPre 2 are converted to analog and accessible at the headphone, XLR, and RCA outputs. Standalone operation requires connection to a USB power source. It’s an ideal solution when an additional microphone preamplifier, A-D converter, or D-A converter is needed.