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.

Features at a Glance

• 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