Pros
Adjustable and effective compressor
Plug and play setup
High audio quality
Built-in vintage mic preamp mode
Durable and aesthetically pleasing design
Comes with useful free software and plugins
Clear and revealing signal for mixing
Compatible with older Mac systems
Cons
Higher price tag
Phantom power resets to off position after power cycle
Lack of detailed audio meters
Main Product Advantages
10 Compressor
The compressor on the UA Volt 1 USB Audio Interface works exceptionally well, making vocals sound fuller and easier to understand. It also acts as a limiter, providing a range of mild to intense compression depending on the gain settings.
10 Build Quality
The device is built to last, with high audio quality and aesthetics. It's seen as a solid investment for serious audio work.
9 Phantom Power
The phantom power feature is safe for modern mics, although it needs to be re-enabled each time the interface is turned on. A red light indicates when it's on, and there is a short silence when enabling phantom power to avoid pops.
9 Ease of Use
The UA Volt 1 is user-friendly, working instantly as a plug-and-play device with minimal setup. However, some users mentioned needing higher gain levels for certain applications.
9 Analog Controls
The analog controls are straightforward and intuitive, adding to the device's ease of use.
8 Audio Meters
The audio meters on the UA Volt 1 are better than many other interfaces but still lack detailed levels. However, the compressor compensates for this limitation, making it less of an issue.
8 Included Software
The interface comes with essential audio software, including $400 in UAD plug-ins. The additional software has been praised for its usefulness.
8 Portability
The device is small but built like a tank, making it portable without sacrificing durability.
7 Price
The price of the UA Volt 1 USB Audio Interface is a bit steep, especially for those requiring multiple channels. However, its performance justifies the cost.
7 Compatibility
The interface works well with Mac and older systems but is not compatible with PlayStation 5. It has good integration with cameras for high-quality audio recording.
UA Volt 1 USB Audio Interface Review
The UA Volt 1 USB Audio Interface is a versatile 1-in/2-out USB 2.0 audio interface designed for recording, podcasting, and streaming. It features professional audio conversion, a built-in Vintage Mic Preamp, and bus power, making it compatible with Mac, PC, iPad, and iPhone.
Versatile Compatibility
This audio interface works seamlessly with various devices, including Mac, PC, iPad, and iPhone. This flexibility makes it a valuable tool for musicians and content creators who need to record on the go.
Superior Sound Quality
The Volt 1 provides superior sound quality with its professional audio conversion and Vintage Mic Preamp mode. The preamp is derived from UA’s renowned 610 tube preamp, ensuring that your recordings have a classic, high-quality sound.
Portable and Convenient
Designed with portability in mind, the Volt 1 is compact and lightweight. It is bus-powered, meaning you don't need an external power supply, which adds to its convenience for mobile recording sessions.
Comprehensive Software Suite
The interface comes with essential audio software and $400 worth of UAD plug-ins. This suite of industry-leading music software allows you to enhance your recordings and achieve a professional sound with ease.
Conclusion
Overall, the UA Volt 1 USB Audio Interface is a powerful, portable, and high-quality recording solution for musicians, podcasters, and livestreamers. Its superior sound quality, versatile compatibility, and comprehensive software suite make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to produce classic recordings anywhere.
