Universal Audio’s new range of Volt USB audio interfaces promises professional, studio-quality sound at an affordable price point that puts them within reach of most bedroom producers, musicians, content creators and podcasters.
The Volt series stands out in its ability to inject character, dynamics and personality into incoming signals, thanks to a fully analogue circuit modelled on the mic/line/instrument preamp found in UA’s legendary 610 tube console, which has been used to record everyone from Ray Charles and Elvis Presley to Jimi Hendrix and Neil Young.
On top of that, the higher-tier ‘76 models boast an extra analogue compression circuit that is based upon their celebrated 1176 compressor, bringing an additional level of presence and studio tone that’s not easy to find in an affordable, entry-level audio interface.
The Volt series is made up of five separate models, all of which are capable of producing a classic, timeless studio sound with the best-in-class audio quality you’d expect from Universal Audio, straight out of the box.
At the most affordable end of the spectrum, the Volt 1 offers 1-in/2-out audio connections, with the Volt 2 doubling the available inputs. These two models, like every Volt interface, are equipped with tube emulation circuitry that, when activated, enriches signals with analogue warmth and vintage tone.
At the top end, we have the 176, 276 and 476, which offer a range of inputs and outputs, all the way up to the 476’s 4-in/4-out connectivity. All of these models feature the previously mentioned integrated analogue compressor, which should add serious impact and character to any sound source. Inspired by the classic UA 1176 Limiting Amplifier, it’s built to imbue vocals, guitar, bass and pretty much anything you throw at it with extra punch and lucidity.
The built-in compressor found in the ‘76 models can be dialled in precisely via the controls on the front of the unit, which offers three modes - Vocals, Guitar and Fast - that enable you to alter the speed of the compressor and find a sound that works for any application, quickly and easily.
Every model in the Volt range looks fantastic: the 76 models offer a wood-panelled design and vintage aesthetic that reflects the heritage and legacy of Universal Audio’s brand. The build quality is equally impressive, with durable metal construction and solid craftsmanship meaning they’re built to withstand the stresses of any home studio for decades to come.
The Volt interfaces are designed to ignite creativity the minute they’re plugged in, coming bundled with a suite of audio software and music production tools like Ableton Live and Celemony Melodyne, plus products from Softube, Plugin Alliance, UJAM, and Spitfire Audio.
Find out more about the Volt range at Universal Audio now.
