The new U-22 from Zoom joins the U-24, and the top of the line U-44, which offers the most powerful field recording setup of the family. The U-22 delivers, says Zoom, the same excellent sound as the U-44 and U-24, with an even more compact form factor.
Presented as the essential mobile recording and performance interface, the U-22 features a high-performance, low-noise mic preamp so you can record vocals, instruments, and more with pristine sound quality—at resolutions up to 24-bit/96 kHz, like the two other models in the family.
The U-22 features a single high-performance, low-noise mic preamp—the same as the acclaimed H6 Handy Recorders—with less than -120 dBu EIN, as well as recording and playback at resolutions up to 24-bit/96 kHz. You can also use the U-22 as a studio-quality headphone amp and listen to your favorite music in full fidelity.
The U-22’s XLR/TRS combo input can be used to record with a microphone or line-level source, with 48V phantom power, and Hi-Z support for connecting a guitar or bass. The U-22 is also equipped with a mini stereo input so you can record an iPad, mixer, or other portable audio device. It should be noted thathe U-22 can record one input at a time. When recording from the LINE IN jack, the XLR/TRS combo input is disabled.
If you’re after more options, you’ll have to look at the other models. Zoom says that the U-24 is a compact, 2-in/4-out audio interface that provides all of the essential tools you need for recording and performing with high resolution, 24-bit/96 kHz audio—anywhere you go. You’ll get incredible sound quality thanks to high-quality, low-noise preamps—the same ones found on the H5 and H6 Handy Recorders. Connect to your PC, Mac, or iPad via USB and record mics, instruments, and more. The U-24 delivers the same great sound as the U-44 interface, with a more streamlined feature set.
Thanks to its 10-pin Zoom connector, the U-44 is compatible with all of Zoom’s interchangeable input capsules (sold separately), representing a powerful field recording setup. Users can choose from six capsules—X/Y, Shock Mount X/Y, Mid-Side, Shotgun, Stereo Shotgun, and Dual XLR/TRS Combo Input—each with its own unique applications. Record the audience during live performance, or connect the SSH-6 Stereo Shotgun for dialogue and sound design on your latest film project.
The U-22 can be bus-powered via USB and its compact form factor is perfect for use with a laptop or iPad. In that configuration it requires 2 AA batteries or optional AC adapter for power, plus an Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit or Lightning-to-USB Camera Adapter for connection to iPad. The innovative design provides quick access to connectors, knobs, and controls for effortless setup and operation.
For zero-latency recording and mixing, the U-22’s direct monitoring switch allows you to hear your signal before it passes through the computer. Separate RCA output jacks and an independent headphone output provide multiple options for monitoring.
- Stereo USB audio interface for PC/Mac/iPad
- Connect to iPad with Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit or Lightning-to-USB
Camera Adapter (sold separately), plus 2 AA batteries or optional AC adapter for power - XLR/TRS input with high-performance mic preamp
- High-quality recording and playback at resolutions up to 24-bit/96 kHz
- Approximately 5 hours of operation with 2 AA alkaline batteries
- Includes download code for Ableton Live 9 Lite
- Hi-Z support
- Zero-latency direct monitoring
- Dedicated RCA L/R and headphone outputs
- Gain control knob for Mic/Hi-Z input
- +48V phantom power
- Accepts standard AA alkaline or NiMH rechargeable batteries