Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD vs Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
Feb 9, 2022
Looking for a comparison of the Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD vs Focusrite Scarlett 2i2? If so, you've come to the right place.
There are many audio interfaces available. Two of the most popular interfaces are the Behringer U-Phoria UMC404Hd and the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2. But which of these two audio interfaces is the superior product?
In this article, you will learn:
Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD vs Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
Which One Is Best?
Read on and get an in-depth comparison and review of both the Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD and the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2.
Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD vs Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
Both the Beringer U-Phoria UMC404HD and the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 have different strengths and weaknesses. Depending on your needs, the strengths or weaknesses of each product might sway you to purchase the other. At the end of the day, the choice is up to you.
Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD
The Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD is the go-to interface for many content creators. It has a variety of great features that make it an attractive product. But is this product as good as it seems? Or, are there some issues that rear their ugly head on occasion?
Specifications and Features:
- 4 Midas-designed mic preamps
- 24-Bit/192 kHz resolution
- XLR/TRS inputs
- +48 Volt phantom power
- USB 2.0
Our Thoughts
When we first tested the UMC404HD, we were impressed by the ease at which we were able to get up and running. The documentation provided with the device was clear and easy to follow, which made it easy to locate the drivers that we needed to install to our computer.
Honestly, this interface is a fantastic product. It's affordable but doesn't sacrifice quality. The dynamic range is excellent, and the audio recordings sound very crisp. All in all, the recording experience with this product has no issues present.
Where there are some issues present is with the functionality. There is no ON/OFF switch on this interface, so it will constantly be on when it is plugged in. Also, there are no sample rate and bit depth adjuments on the device. Oh, and the device doesn't yet work with Windows 11.
Pros
- Excellent dynamic range
- Superb recording quality
Cons
- No ON/OFF button
- Lacks Windows 11 compatibility
- No native sample rate and bit depth adjustments
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 has gone through various generations over the years. Currently, the 3rd generation of this product is the most widely sold. While many people have a great experience with this product, there are some issues you should be aware of.
Specifications and Features:
- 2 3rd generation Scarlett mic preamps
- 20Hz-20kHz frequency response
- XLR/TRS inputs
- +48 Volt phantom power
- USB 2.0
Our Thoughts
Getting started with the Scarlett 2i2 was an easy process. Since this device has plug-and-play functionality, we didn't have to install any drivers on our computer, which is always a big plus. However, the bundled software made up for this ease of use by giving us countless headaches.
Upon holding this device in our hands, we were struck by how well built it felt. For such a low price, the product managed to have a premium feel. Along with this, the device has a compact design, which makes it a great space-saver.
While the captured audio on the 2i2 sounded great, we did run into some minor latency issues. Also, MIDI devices cannot be used with this interface. So, while the captured audio turned out great 99% of the time, the latency issues did spoil the experience a bit.
Pros
- Build quality
Cons
- Minor latency issues
- No MIDI
- Poor bundled software
Which One Is Best?
At this point, you're probably wondering- which of these two audio interfaces is best? Should you go with the UMC404HD or the Scarlett 2i2? Both seem to be decent products, but which one is the best option?
Overall, the Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD is the superior audio interface. This isn't to say the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a bad product- it's still fantastic. However, the UMC404HD presents a few more features and a steadier recording experience.
Keeping this in mind, it's important to recognize that the 2i2 is a very popular product. So, if you run into any issues with it, you'll most likely have no issues finding a solution after a few Google searches.
At the end of the day, it's up to you to decide which is the superior product. We found the UMC404HD to be superior, but other people only have had different experiences. Be sure to weigh the pros and cons out before coming to a decision.
Conclusion
You now know that main differences between the Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD and the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2. While they are both great audio interfaces, the UMC404HD edged out the 2i2 due to a few feature differences.
