TEST: Behringer U-Phoria UMC 1820

 But oops, that took a lot of wind out of the Behringer critics' sails when the Music Group, based in Manila / Philippines under the leadership of Uli Behringer, bought the console legend Midas in 2010 and added the impressive portfolio with names like TC Electronic, Tannoy , Klark Teknik and Turbosound added.

The justified criticism of the time about the inadequate preamps and filters was suddenly gone, as Behringer cleverly set about incorporating the resources of the flagship console giant into its own product range immediately after incorporating the company. So it's not surprising that the Behringer U-Phoria UMC1820 interface adorns every single input plus the gain control with a fat Midas button. Logically, we would all do that if we were in charge of Behringer's marketing department.

The result makes you curious. A maximum of 18 plus 20 outputs including 8 Midas-supported analogue inputs for less than 200 euros retail price? Bold announcement...



Conception

The Behringer U-Phoria UMC1820 is a 1U interface with a maximum sample rate of 96 kHz at 24 bit word width, which means that the currently most popular recording format is covered. Many had already given up hope because the product was announced at the beginning of 2014, but only saw the light of day two years later.

Conceptually, the Behringer U-Phoria UMC1820 has, in addition to the above-mentioned analog inputs, ADAT and S/PDIF, which enables the number of inputs to be 18. Two push switches on the front of the housing allow activation of 48V phantom power on channels 1-4 and 5-8. All analog inputs are designed as combination sockets for XLR / TRS microphone / line operation, with all inputs also accepting high-impedance signals using a pressure switch. The extent to which you have to process 8 Hz signals during a recording session is up to the respective application, but the offering is impressive in this price range.

There is nothing to complain about in terms of workmanship. Gone are the days of “plastic boxes” that allowed for rudimentary twisting along the longitudinal axis. The Behringer U-Phoria UMC1820 is based on a solid metal housing, which gives a high-quality impression. All dials and push buttons work and glide pleasantly sluggishly and never give the impression of cheap Asian junk. Fortunately, the Behringer U-Phoria UMC1820 also has 4 rubber feet, which allow stand-alone operation without rack operation. A fact that is often forgotten by other manufacturers with the 1U concept.

A total of 10 outputs are located on the back of the housing, with 2 TRS outputs taking over the main out. It has a volume control, a dim and a mute switch on the front. The opulent number of outputs enables intensive hardware insert operation as well as operation in a surround mix, for example. Also noteworthy is the fact that the Behringer U-Phoria UMC1820 has the MIDI In/Out interfaces as well as two data flow LEDs on the front of the housing. Commendable! Oh yes, two separately controllable headphone outputs are also available. Respect!


Practice

When it comes to drivers, it's the same as it almost always is with different platforms. OS

From the sound of it, you shouldn't think that you're dealing with a product below the 200 euro mark. Even if the interface has a touch less height and shine in direct comparison to the much higher class, the use of the Midas background is clearly noticeable. The sound, handling and background noise are actually at a level that I would not have thought possible in this price range.


Conclusion

With the Behringer U-Phoria UMC1820, a long-awaited interface is entering the budget class. The wait for the interface announced at the beginning of 2014 was actually worth it. For a price of around 200 euros, you get a very solidly built, conceptually well-thought-out and good-sounding interface that offers far more than what the retail price suggests.

For beginners or upgraders in the ADAT area, for this price it seems e.g. Nothing better to give at the moment.

Be sure to check it out!

—————————

Additional Informations:

Audio interfaces are crucial components in the realms of music production, broadcasting, podcasting, and any field that requires the recording or playback of sound through computers. These devices serve as the bridge between the analog world of microphones, instruments, and the digital realm of computing devices, converting analog signals into digital data and vice versa. This comprehensive exploration delves into the evolution, functionality, types, key features, connectivity options, and the impact of audio interfaces on the audio production landscape.

Evolution of Audio Interfaces

The history of audio interfaces parallels the evolution of computer and audio technology. In the early days of digital recording, audio inputs were rudimentary, often limited to built-in sound cards with minimal capabilities. As digital audio workstations (DAWs) and recording technology advanced, the need for higher-quality, more versatile audio input and output solutions became evident. This led to the development of dedicated audio interfaces that could offer professional-grade sound quality, lower latency, and connectivity options for various audio sources and output devices.

Functionality and Core Components

An audio interface typically includes analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) and digital-to-analog converters (DACs). The ADCs convert the analog signals from microphones or instruments into digital data that a computer can process. Conversely, DACs convert digital audio data from the computer into analog signals for monitoring through speakers or headphones. Preamps are another critical component, amplifying the weak signals from microphones to a usable level. Additionally, interfaces often provide phantom power, essential for condenser microphones.

Types of Audio Interfaces

Audio interfaces come in various form factors and capabilities, catering to different user needs:

USB Interfaces: The most common type, USB interfaces, are versatile and compatible with a broad range of computers. They range from compact, portable models with a few inputs and outputs to larger units offering extensive connectivity.

Thunderbolt Interfaces: Known for their low latency and high data throughput, Thunderbolt interfaces are favored in professional studios. They can handle more channels simultaneously and provide faster data transfer rates.

FireWire Interfaces: Once popular for their speed and reliability, FireWire interfaces have largely been supplanted by USB and Thunderbolt options but are still in use in some studios.

PCIe Interfaces: These interfaces offer the lowest latency by connecting directly to a computer's motherboard. They are ideal for professional environments where maximum performance is essential.

iOS and Mobile Interfaces: Designed for portability and compatibility with smartphones and tablets, these interfaces allow for high-quality recording on the go.

Key Features to Consider

When selecting an audio interface, several features merit consideration:
Input/Output (I/O) Configuration: The number and type of inputs and outputs determine how many instruments or microphones can be connected simultaneously and how the audio can be routed.

Connectivity: Beyond audio I/O, interfaces may offer MIDI, USB, or Ethernet ports for connecting additional gear.

Latency: Lower latency is crucial for real-time monitoring and performance. The interface's drivers and connectivity technology (USB, Thunderbolt, etc.) impact latency.

Sample Rate and Bit Depth: Higher sample rates and bit depths offer better audio fidelity. Most interfaces support at least 44.1 kHz/24-bit, which is CD quality, with many capable of higher settings.

Software Compatibility: Compatibility with preferred DAWs and operating systems is essential to ensure a smooth workflow.

Connectivity Options and Considerations

Choosing the right audio interface also involves understanding the connectivity options that best match one's studio setup:

USB is nearly universal, offering good speed and compatibility with most computers.
Thunderbolt provides superior speed and low latency, ideal for larger projects and professional studios.

FireWire, though less common, is still used in some setups for its stable performance.
PCIe offers the best performance for desktops with available slots.

Impact on the Audio Production Landscape

Audio interfaces have democratized music production, making high-quality recording accessible to home studios and hobbyists. They have enabled a proliferation of independently produced music, podcasts, and multimedia content. The continuous innovation in this field, including advancements in preamp quality, converter technology, and software integration, has raised the bar for audio quality and creative possibilities.

The Future of Audio Interfaces

Emerging technologies, such as networked audio over Ethernet, promise to further revolutionize audio interfaces by enabling scalable, low-latency audio distribution across studios and live sound environments. Additionally, the integration of DSP (Digital Signal Processing) capabilities allows for real-time audio processing without taxing the computer's CPU, opening new horizons for creativity and efficiency.

In exploring the future trends and technological advancements in audio interfaces, we're witnessing a dynamic shift towards more integrated, intelligent systems that cater to an increasingly diverse and technologically savvy user base. The evolution of audio interfaces isn't just about improving the fidelity of sound conversion or expanding connectivity options; it's also about enhancing the creative workflow and making sophisticated recording techniques more accessible to a broader audience.

### Integration with Software and Cloud-Based Solutions

One of the significant trends in audio interface development is deeper integration with software, including DAWs and cloud-based platforms. This integration extends beyond basic compatibility, offering features like automatic configuration, remote control capabilities, and seamless access to online sound libraries and collaboration tools. Future interfaces might come with AI-driven functions to assist with mixing, mastering, and even sound design, learning from the user's preferences and habits to suggest adjustments or automate routine tasks.

### Advanced DSP and Machine Learning

The inclusion of powerful DSP chips in audio interfaces is not new, but the potential applications of these processors are expanding. With advancements in machine learning algorithms, DSP can be used for more than low-latency monitoring and running basic effects. Future interfaces could offer real-time adaptive noise cancellation, room correction, and even voice or instrument separation for live performances, all processed locally on the interface's DSP.

### Networked Audio and Scalability

Audio over IP (AoIP) technologies like Dante, AVB, and AES67 are making inroads into the studio environment, previously dominated by live sound and broadcast applications. These networked audio protocols allow for high-quality, low-latency audio to be sent over standard Ethernet networks, simplifying cabling and making audio setups more scalable and flexible. As home networks become faster and more reliable, we might see a rise in audio interfaces that leverage AoIP for both professional and home studios, enabling easy expansion of I/O and integration with networked audio devices.

### Enhanced Portability and Mobile Integration

As creators increasingly work on the go, the demand for highly portable yet powerful audio interfaces is growing. Future devices will likely emphasize compactness without sacrificing quality, offering features like wireless connectivity to computers and mobile devices, rechargeable batteries, and integrated microphones and speakers. The integration with mobile devices will become smoother, with apps that offer comprehensive control over the interface's features and possibly even DAW-like functionalities for on-the-spot editing and mixing.

### Sustainability and User-Centric Design

Sustainability is becoming a crucial consideration in the manufacturing and design of electronic devices, including audio interfaces. Future designs may focus on energy efficiency, the use of recycled materials, and longer product lifecycles. Additionally, as the user base diversifies, there's a growing need for interfaces that are not only powerful but also intuitive and accessible to beginners. This could lead to more customizable interfaces, with modular designs and user-friendly software that can adapt to various skill levels and needs.

### Conclusion

The future of audio interfaces is intertwined with the broader trends in technology, including artificial intelligence, networked devices, and sustainability. As these devices become more integrated into our creative and collaborative workflows, they will continue to evolve, offering new possibilities for audio production, performance, and sharing. The challenge for manufacturers will be to balance the technical advancements with the need for interfaces that are accessible, intuitive, and inspiring to use for creators at all levels. The next generation of audio interfaces will likely transform not just how we record and produce sound but also how we think about and interact with audio in our digital world.