Essential Information About the Behringer U-Phoria UMC1820 USB Audio Interface
- 18x20 I/O for multitrack recording: 8 XLR/TRS combo inputs, line and digital outputs for a complete 1U studio setup.
- MIDAS Preamps transparent with +48 V phantom power, pads, and gain control per channel for clean and musical recordings.
- 24-bit / 96 kHz Conversion and direct stereo/mono monitoring for latency-free listening.
- Expandable Connectivity via ADAT/S/PDIF (optical and coaxial) and MIDI to integrate synths, controllers, and expansions.
The Rack-Mount Flagship of the U-Phoria Range
Designed for serious setups, the
UMC1820 is the most comprehensive 19-inch rack model in the U-Phoria family. It carries forward the series' "plug-and-play" philosophy while adding extensive connectivity and studio-inspired monitoring controls, offering a robust solution for musicians, producers, and sound engineers.
Who Is It For and What Are Its Uses?
Ideal for ambitious home studios, rehearsal rooms, and live setups requiring backing tracks, the UMC1820 suits singers, multi-instrumentalists, and bands looking to capture vocals, guitars, keyboards, and line sources simultaneously. Its compatibility with major DAWs on Mac and Windows allows quick integration into any workflow.
Key Features for a Modern Workflow
MIDAS Preamps and Studio-Quality Conversion
The eight microphone preamps designed by
MIDAS deliver clean and musical gain reserves, with +48 V phantom power for condenser microphones. The combo inputs accept microphones, instruments, and line-level signals, each channel featuring a dedicated pad and gain control. Converters up to
24-bit / 96 kHz ensure faithful and detailed capture.
Digital I/O and Expansion
Thanks to the
ADAT/S/PDIF optical ports compatible with S/MUX and the
coaxial S/PDIF, the UMC1820 integrates with external converters, additional preamps, or digital processors while maintaining control over timing and conversion quality.
Accurate Monitoring and Independent Headphones
Main outputs feature volume control with
Mute and
Dim functions for instant listening level management.
Direct monitoring with stereo/mono switch, along with two headphone outputs with separate controls, facilitate artist monitoring and distraction-free recording.
MIDI Integration and Broad Compatibility
The
MIDI input/output allows control of keyboards, modules, and control surfaces. The interface installs easily on many versions of Windows and Mac OS X and works with major recording software for quick setup.
Technical Specifications
Interface and Audio Conversion
- USB 2.0 audio interface 18 x 20
- Resolution up to 24-bit / 96 kHz
- Pre-amplifiers designed by MIDAS
- +48 V phantom power
- Pad switch per input
- Gain control per input
Analog Connectivity
- 18 inputs and 20 outputs: 8 x XLR / 6.3 mm jack combo inputs switchable between mic / instrument / line level
- 10 line outputs on 6.3 mm jack (1 + 2 monitor outputs L / R)
- Main outputs with gain control and mute and dim switches
- Control tracking with stereo / mono switch
- 2 separate headphone outputs with level control
Digital Connectivity and MIDI
- ADAT / S/PDIF optical input and output (S/MUX compatible)
- Coaxial S/PDIF input and output
- MIDI input and output
System, Power, and Form Factor
- Compatible with Windows XP / Vista / 7 / 8 / 10 and Mac OS X
- External power supply
- 19-inch rack format - 1U