Steinberg UR28M 6-in/8-out USB 2.0 Audio Interface

The UR28M from Steinberg is a USB 2.0, DSP-powered digital audio interface featuring 4 inputs and 6 outputs, designed to deliver high-resolution audio. Two of the inputs consist of D-Pre microphone preamps with switchable phantom power. Hi-Z instrument inputs are also available, along with S/PDIF I/O on RCA coaxial connectors. A stereo mini input jack allows for connecting a portable audio player or other devices for use as a reference source.

Version 2 is a major firmware update from Steinberg that adds new functionality to the UR28M, such as iPad connectivity and new guitar amp simulator effects running on the DSP, as well as being bundled as VST 3 plug-ins. The update is free of charge and is available in the support area. Additionally, all registered users will be eligible for a free version of Cubase AI 7.

A single output volume knob can control the individual levels of one of three stereo output pairs, or the levels of six outputs simultaneously. Three separate monitoring mixes can be set up in the dspMixFx mixer or the included Cubase software, which are then routed to the selected outputs. Several smaller rotary knobs control signal levels of inputs 1 and 2 and the two headphone outputs.

Other controls include a Dim button for attenuating all line output signals by 20dB, along with a Mono and a Mute button for muting the selected output signal. Four-segment LED metering for the inputs and the output are also present. A USB port connects the unit to either a Mac or PC based computer, and with the included Cubase AI workstation software, recording and mixing productions can be easily achieved. Other compatible audio software can also be used.

• 24-bit/96kHz USB 2.0 audio interface
• Analog 4 inputs and 6 outputs, plus stereo input for reference source
• S/PDIF coaxial I/O
• D-Pre Class-A discrete microphone preamps supporting 48V phantom power
• Latency-free DSP-powered monitoring with one REV-X reverb and four Channel Strips with any DAW by using the latest dspMixFx technology
• Digitally controlled monitor level control with DIM, Mono, and Mute fed by a 3 x 3 monitoring matrix
• Two separate headphone buses with individual outputs
• Cubase AI music production software included
• Cross-platform compatibility for Mac OS X and Windows