Steinberg, the makers of Cubase, are well-known in the music production world, and their UR series of interfaces have long been a favourite among musicians and producers. The UR22C is a 2-in/2-out USB-C interface that combines solid build quality, clean Yamaha D-PRE mic preamps, and onboard DSP effects for latency-free monitoring. With MIDI I/O included and tight Cubase integration, it promises to be a powerful option for both home studios and mobile creators. But how does it perform in real-world use? Let’s find out.
2-in / 2-out USB-C audio interface (USB 3.0 compatible)
Yamaha D-PRE mic preamps with +48V phantom power
24-bit/192 kHz converters
Built-in DSP with reverb, delay, compression, and EQ for monitoring
MIDI I/O for controllers and external gear
Sturdy metal housing
Bundled software: Cubase AI, Cubasis LE (iOS), dspMixFx mixer
The UR22C has a rugged, all-metal chassis that feels built to last, making it well-suited for travel and gig setups. The layout is compact but practical, with combo inputs on the front and outputs/MIDI on the back. While the small knobs can feel a little fiddly, the overall design is functional and professional.
You get two combo XLR/TRS inputs, two balanced TRS outputs, MIDI I/O, and a headphone jack with independent level control. That makes it more versatile than many 2×2 competitors, especially for musicians using MIDI keyboards or synths. There’s no ADAT or S/PDIF expansion, but for solo musicians and producers, the I/O is sufficient.
The Yamaha D-PRE preamps are the highlight of the UR22C, offering a clean, natural sound with good headroom. Recordings are clear and accurate, making them well-suited for vocals, instruments, and podcasting. The 24-bit/192 kHz converters hold their own against competitors in this class, ensuring solid overall audio performance.
A standout feature is the built-in DSP effects, which allow you to monitor with reverb, compression, or EQ without straining your computer. While basic compared to software plugins, they’re very useful for singers and performers who want to hear effects while recording with zero latency. The included dspMixFx software makes routing and monitoring flexible, particularly if you’re working outside Cubase.
At just over 1 kg, the UR22C is portable, though a little heavier than some ultra-compact units. Its metal chassis inspires confidence, making it a solid choice for musicians who want something durable for both home use and mobile recording.
At around £150–£180, the UR22C is competitively priced given its build quality, DSP effects, and included MIDI I/O. The bundled Cubase AI and Cubasis LE also add significant value, especially for newcomers without a DAW. For users already invested in Cubase, it’s an especially attractive option.
Yes, it’s compatible with all major DAWs, though it integrates most smoothly with Cubase.
They include reverb, delay, compression, and EQ. They’re basic but effective for monitoring while tracking.
Yes, it’s compatible with iOS devices when used with an external power source.
The Steinberg UR22C is a strong 2-in/2-out interface for musicians and producers who want durable build quality, clean preamps, and handy DSP monitoring. With MIDI I/O and tight Cubase integration, it’s particularly appealing for Steinberg users, but it holds up well against competitors regardless of DAW. While limited in expandability, it’s one of the best all-round interfaces in its price range.
Need a portable, feature-packed audio interface for music production?
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