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Description

If you're a musician on the go or a studio producer seeking exceptional sound quality, the Cakewalk by Roland UA-25EX 24Bit/96kHz Audio Capture is your ideal companion. This ultra-portable USB audio interface is designed to travel with you, delivering pro-grade mic preamps and incredible 96kHz sound quality wherever inspiration strikes.

Crafted with a robust yet sleek metal chassis, the UA-25EX is fully shielded to fend off interference, making it a reliable choice whether you're recording in a bustling studio or a cozy home setting. The thoughtful inclusion of a ground-lift switch ensures your recordings remain free from hum and buzz, giving you clean, professional results every time.

One of the standout features is the built-in analog compressor and limiter, allowing you to manage your signal with precision from the get-go. This means no more wrestling with unwanted clipping or distorted takes. Plus, with the bundled Production Plus Pack, including SONAR LE and Dimension LE, you're equipped with the tools to dive into powerful PC-based recording right out of the box.

The UA-25EX offers versatile connectivity with two XLR/TRS combo jacks equipped with 48V phantom power, a Hi-Z port for direct guitar connections, S/PDIF optical I/O, and MIDI in/out. This makes it a versatile tool for musicians and producers working across various setups. Moreover, it's USB bus powered, ensuring a low-noise and wide-ranging power supply wherever you are.

With its affordability and comprehensive feature set, the UA-25EX delivers a seamless blend of portability and professional quality for all your recording needs.

Key Features:

  • High-resolution 24-bit/96kHz performance
  • Pro-grade mic preamps with a built-in analog compressor/limiter
  • USB bus powered, low-noise power supply
  • Two XLR/TRS combo jacks with 48V phantom power
  • Hi-Z port for direct guitar connection, S/PDIF optical I/O, MIDI in/out
  • Ground lift switch for hum-free recordings
  • Bundled with Production Plus Pack: SONAR LE, Project 5 LE, and Dimension LE
  • Compatible with Mac and Windows systems
PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Roland Cakewalk UA-25EX USB Audio Interface | PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Roland Cakewalk UA-25EX USB Audio Interface | PMTVUK by PMTVUK

Roland Cakewalk UA-25EX USB Audio Interface | PMTVUK

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Using a 2009 Roland UA-25EX Audio Interface in 2021 by UOttawaScotty

Using a 2009 Roland UA-25EX Audio Interface in 2021

UOttawaScotty

UOttawaScotty

Reviews

PROS

  • High-quality XLR preamps enhance recording clarity

  • Versatile connectivity options including MIDI, TRS/RCA/optical S/PDIF I/O

  • Includes both phantom power and high-Z input for varied mic/guitar use

  • Portable, lightweight, and robust build quality

  • Features analogue limiter/compressor for dynamic control

  • Operates efficiently under USB power

  • Offers good value for money with comprehensive features

CONS

  • Second input becomes noisy in high-Z mode

  • Can only record or play in 96kHz mode, not both simultaneously

  • Switching between modes requires accessing the back panel

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Cakewalk by Roland UA-25EX 24Bit/96kHz Audio Capture.

Software and compatibility

  • Despite no official Windows 11 drivers, users report the UA-25EX works with the OS using generic drivers.

    Source
  • Some users have successfully used the UA-25EX with Pro Tools, indicating broader DAW compatibility beyond basic recording setups.

    Source
  • The UA-25EX functions well with Linux using Ardour and Audacity, although detailed compatibility with MIDI under Linux remains untested by some users.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners find the UA-25EX sufficient for basic bedroom recording needs, especially when advanced features aren't required.

    Source
  • The UA-25EX is noted for successful integration with Notion on Windows, showcasing its versatility across different recording software.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Available for purchase at low prices, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious musicians needing a temporary or backup interface.

    Source
  • Users have obtained the UA-25EX at significant discounts, such as $69, making it an affordable option for those seeking budget-friendly interfaces.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners comparing current Roland interfaces find the UA-25EX to be more feature-rich than the simplified offerings available now.

    Source

User experience

  • Despite being discontinued, the UA-25EX remains a sought-after device for its functionality and price, prompting users to search on platforms like Craigslist.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Edirol UA25EX

soundonsound.com
Add

4.0 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 5 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
sidhepriest

Decent Sound Interface

XLR preamps are good, though the 2nd input tends to be noisy in high-Z mode. The only problem with this interface is that it can either record or play in 96-KHz mode, not both, and the mode has to be chosen with a switch in the back. Otherwise it's one of the best values for money, as it has MIDI, two phantomed combo preamps/line inputs (one with a high-Z option for guitars, which DOES work with "hot" 16K/18K guitar pickups) and TRS/RCA/optical S/PDIF I/O, all balanced/unbalanced in the analogue I/O case. There's even a very nice analogue limiter/compressor (it can work either way, mode set by switch).

F

Great value for the money, sturdy construction, excellent pre-amps, etc.

Compared to a number of similar interfaces available in the marketplace today, this unit offers high quality pre-amps with or without phantom power for microphones, XLR and 1/4"pin microphone input, a regular audio or high Z input for guitars, MIDI in and out, lift, digital inputs, monitor out x 4, etc. and operated under USB. Portable, lightweight, sturdy design, high quality build.

L

Cakewalk UA 25-EX Audio - Interface

"I really like this little audi interface. its compact and very powerfull."

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Bassjackers uses Cakewalk by Roland UA-25EX 24Bit/96kHz Audio Capture

Bassjackers

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

At 4:25 into this video uploaded May 2011, you can see Bassjackers use a Cakewalk by Roland UA-25EX audio interface hooked up to their MacBook.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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