Pricing and availability
Average Price: $77
Budget/Beginner
$150
$501+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
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Description
The PreSonus AudioBox USB 2x2 Audio Recording Interface is your gateway to high-quality, portable recording without the fuss. Compact and user-friendly, this interface is a dream come true for singer-songwriters and budding producers. With its USB bus-powered design, setup is a breeze—just plug it into your computer and you're ready to capture your next big hit anywhere inspiration strikes.
Equipped with two XMAX microphone/instrument preamplifiers, the AudioBox USB ensures your recordings are crisp and clear, while its 48-volt phantom power capability supports a range of condenser microphones. This makes it ideal for capturing vocals, acoustic guitars, and more with professional-grade clarity.
To sweeten the deal, the AudioBox USB comes bundled with PreSonus Studio One Artist software. This powerhouse suite offers unlimited track recording and a robust effects library, putting a professional studio experience at your fingertips. Whether you're mixing, editing, or producing, Studio One Artist delivers the tools you need to refine your sound.
Join the ranks of creatives worldwide who rely on the AudioBox USB for their recording needs. It's not just an interface—it's your new studio partner.
Key Features:
- USB bus-powered for easy connectivity
- Two XMAX microphone/instrument preamplifiers
- 48-volt phantom power for condenser microphones
- Two balanced TRS outputs for monitor connections
- Bundled with Studio One Artist software and additional third-party plugins, loops, and drum samples.
Product specs
| Brand | PreSonus |
| Model | AudioBox USB Black Edition 2x2 USB Recording Interface |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2010s |
| Categories | Audio Interfaces |
| Bit Depth | 24-bit |
| Bus-Powered | Yes |
| Compatibility | Windows, macOS |
| Computer Connectivity | USB |
| Electronics | Analog, Solid State |
| Format | Desktop Standalone |
| Number of Analog Inputs | 2 |
| Number of Analog Outputs | 2 |
| Number of Channels | 4 |
| Number of Digital Inputs | 0 |
| Number of Digital Outputs | 0 |
| Number of Headphone Outputs | 1 |
| Number of MIDI Inputs | 1 |
| Number of MIDI Outputs | 1 |
| Number of Mic Preamps | 2 |
| Sample Rate | 96 khz |
FAQs
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What are the main connectivity options for the PreSonus AudioBox USB 2x2?
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The PreSonus AudioBox USB 2x2 features USB connectivity for computers, 2 analog inputs, 2 analog outputs, 1 headphone output, and MIDI input/output. It is compatible with both Windows and macOS systems.
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Does the PreSonus AudioBox USB 2x2 require an external power supply?
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No, the PreSonus AudioBox USB 2x2 is bus-powered, meaning it draws power directly from the USB connection to your computer, eliminating the need for an external power supply.
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Is the PreSonus AudioBox USB 2x2 compatible with all major DAWs?
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Yes, the PreSonus AudioBox USB 2x2 is compatible with all major DAWs, including Ableton Live, Pro Tools, and Logic Pro, making it a versatile choice for various recording setups.
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What is the sample rate and bit depth of the PreSonus AudioBox USB 2x2?
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The PreSonus AudioBox USB 2x2 supports a sample rate of up to 96 kHz and a bit depth of 24-bit, providing high-quality audio recording and playback.
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Does the PreSonus AudioBox USB 2x2 come with any bundled software?
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Yes, the PreSonus AudioBox USB 2x2 typically comes bundled with PreSonus Studio One Artist DAW software, offering a comprehensive recording solution right out of the box.
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Do I need to install drivers for the PreSonus AudioBox USB 2x2 on my computer?
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Windows users need to download and install the AudioBox driver before connecting the interface. However, macOS users do not require a driver for installation.
Videos
Podcastage
PreSonus AudioBox USB 2x2 Review / Test / Explained
PreSonus AudioBox USB 2x2 Review / Test / Explained
Podcastage
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio (2nd Gen) VS Presonus Audiobox 96 Studio - Which should you buy?
Reuben Chng
Presonus AudioBox USB 2x2 USB Recording System Overview | UniqueSquared.com
UniqueSquared
Reviews
PROS
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Portable, great for traveling musicians
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Provides good sound quality for guitars, bass, and vocals
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Ideal for beginners with easy use and setup
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Compatible with various recording software and effects
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Excellent value for the price, especially for entry-level users
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Clean audio output with minimal noise
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Versatile, supporting both instrument and mic inputs
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Offers phantom power for condenser mics
CONS
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Some users experience latency issues on both Windows and Mac
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Headphone output quality may deteriorate over time
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Preamps and instrument inputs sound dull according to some reviews
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Feedback issues when used with headphones
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Crackling noise when adjusting knobs reported
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May require an upgrade for more advanced users
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about PreSonus AudioBox USB 2x2 Audio Recording Interface.
Build quality
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Owners note the PreSonus AudioBox preamps are low gain and noisy, with poor ground isolation linked to motherboard noise.
Source
Features and functionality
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The AudioBox supports four input combinations: two instruments, one instrument plus mic, or two mics simultaneously.
Source -
The +48V phantom power button can become unstable, leading to static and issues with the second XLR input after prolonged use.
Source -
The AudioBox supports a higher max sampling rate of 96 kHz compared to some entry-level options, providing better audio quality for users seeking detailed recordings.
Source
User experience
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Some prefer the AudioBox's build quality, citing durable materials and reliability, despite issues with preamp noise.
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Users find it easy to mistakenly adjust the wrong knobs in dim lighting, affecting their audio setup during gaming or recording.
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New users appreciate the AudioBox's simplicity and effectiveness for beginner setups, especially when transitioning from no audio interface to entry-level recording.
Source
Value and pricing
Comparisons
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Compared to the Focusrite Scarlett, some users find the AudioBox noisier, impacting their choice of interface.
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The PreSonus AudioBox is considered outdated compared to newer models like the Motu M2, which offers better preamps and converters.
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Users highlight the PreSonus AudioBox as a more reliable choice over the Behringer UM2 due to better driver support and audio quality, despite both being budget-friendly options.
Source
Setup and maintenance
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XLR inputs do not automatically disable when not in use, causing noise bleed unless manually muted via the volume wheel.
Source
Software and compatibility
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The AudioBox offers native ASIO drivers and audio routing software, unlike some competitors that rely on ASIO4All, enhancing its integration with professional audio setups.
Source
4.0 out of 5
Based on 24 Reviews and 125 Ratings
61
a bit frustrated
i'm just disappointed with my Audiobox, extremely unstable with usb port after few years. very unfortunate experience. but it works so... i'll just leave it here.
243
It works (For the Most Part) Don't Like it very Much (2 Stars)
The Headphone knob started scratching then stopped working properly just a Month after the warranty expired. Plus the Preamps, Instrument inputs Sound very Dull. Headphone Output seems Fine Though. Too Much Latency on Both Windows and Mac. Very Mediocre Interface for the Price.
Update June 2020, The headphone outputs is also very dull, Side by Side comparison with my 13" 2015 Macbook Pro proved that even the Laptop's headphone output Sounds better.
243
Update June 2020, The headphone outputs is also very dull, Side by Side comparison with my 13" 2015 Macbook Pro proved that even the Laptop's headphone output Sounds better.
306
98
I love it
Of course, if I had a lot of money to throw around, I probably would have gotten a more expensive and professional device. HOWEVER, this little thing is no joke. I use my Sterling Audio ST51 (about $100 mic), pop filter, and vocal shield. The results are phenomenal. Zero "white" noise, pure raw vocals, and not much effort software wise (Studio One 2 Artist). I recommend this to any beginner.
58
good sound for the price
I record electric bass most of the time with it. Then I redesign the sound into something new. Sometimes with Xfer records LFO Tool, Ableton Audio Effects, Ozone Imager, and Serum FX. I rarely record with a microphone.
142
A Good Start
This audio interface is very good for beginners. Its sound quality is good but can be better but for the price, I'm happy. Once you have a grasp on how to work audio interfaces this should definitely be upgraded. Also very good for recording things like bass and guitar.
51
Cool little box
This was/is my first audio interface though, i never used the midi input and ive only used the mic input messing around, so its mainly just connected to monitors and headphones. i first picked it up in a bundle with headphones (hd7s), a condensor mic (m7). And studio live Daw which ive also never really used because i lost the install disk haha.
71
A good quality and basic interface.
I bought this interface to be able to practice without an amp and for recording into the computer. It works well and provides for the most basic controls when recording. There is some feedback when used with headphones, but that is the only inconsistency with this product.
Artist usage
Add artist
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An Instagram photo posted by Flux Pavilion shows him using the PreSonus AudioBox Interface along with KRK Rokit 5 monitors.
He uses this particular version of Presonus Audiobox.
In this video, you can see limited version (Black) of AudioBox next to the MacBook. (02:44-)
Double U utilizes the PreSonus AudioBox USB 2x2 Audio Recording Interface, a compact and portable solution ideal for musicians, producers, and podcasters with basic recording needs. As highlighted by PreSonus, this bus-powered interface is perfect for on-the-go recording.
In this video, Sarah Longfield uses a Presonus Audiobox audio interface.
Tom Cosm uses the PreSonus AudioBox USB 2x2 Audio Recording Interface, as shown in a photo he shared on his Facebook page.
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Visible in Instagram posts dated June 1, 2014 and December 21, 2016. It is also mentioned in this April 2, 2013 FL Studio interview.
I produce in my room, in a corner. I have my microphone (Neumann TLM 103), my Presonus Audiobox, my Mackie MR5s, my AKAI APC40 MPK61 and last but not least my TC Helicon VoiceLive 2.
Monartic is seen using the PreSonus AudioBox USB 2x2 Audio Recording Interface in a photo shared on their Instagram. The post, tagged with #studio and #edm, highlights their studio setup, which includes this audio interface.
In this Equipboard interview article, Julian Wolf noted: "[...] I use the PreSonus USB audio box interface, a couple of Swissonic studio monitors, the iRig Keys 37 Pro master keyboard. I used to use a M-Audio KeyStation 88 and a Samson Graphite M25 in the past."
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use PreSonus AudioBox USB 2x2 Audio Recording Interface, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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