Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 10 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.0 (9)
$199.99
Guitar Center
3.5 (4)
$199.99
Amazon
4.2 (216)
New
$155.25 Used (Like New)
Reverb
$199.99 New
$164.64 Used
zZounds
5.0 (3)
$199.99
B&H
5.0 (1)
$199.99
Thomann
4.2 (11)
$135.00
Gear4Music
£145.00

Average Price: $196

Standard/Professional

$150

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 8 merchants for "PreSonus Quantum ES 2". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Unleash the full potential of your recordings with the PreSonus Quantum ES 2, a cutting-edge 2x2 USB-C audio interface that merges innovation with simplicity for the modern musician. Whether you're a seasoned producer or a budding artist, this interface is designed to deliver studio-quality sound in a user-friendly package. With its dual MAX-HD mic preamps, offering up to 75 dB of gain, you can capture the finest details of your audio with minimal noise. The interface's high-performance converters ensure every nuance of your performance is recorded with exceptional clarity, making it the perfect addition to any studio setup.

The Quantum ES 2 also features an instrument input co-developed with Fender, making it a dream for guitarists and bassists seeking superior tonal quality. With the Auto Gain feature, setting the correct gain levels for your mics and instruments becomes effortless, allowing you to concentrate on your music rather than technical adjustments. This intuitive feature, combined with seamless software integration through the Universal Control app, offers unparalleled control over your recording environment, whether you're using a desktop or a mobile device.

Included with the Quantum ES 2 is a six-month subscription to Studio One+, providing you with professional-grade software to complement your recording experience. This suite of tools ensures that your creative journey is supported from conception to completion, making it easier than ever to produce high-quality tracks.

Key Features:

  • 2x2, 24-bit/192kHz USB-C audio interface
  • Dual MAX-HD mic preamps with +75 dB gain
  • Instrument input co-developed with Fender
  • Auto Gain for optimal mic and instrument gain levels
  • High-performance converters for exceptional audio clarity
  • Universal Control app for remote management
  • Loopback audio for easy streaming mixes
  • Includes Studio One Pro+ software for six months

Product specs

Computer Connectivity USB 2.0
Form Factor Desktop
Simultaneous I/O 2 x 2
Number of Preamps 2 x Mic
A/D Resolution 24-bit/192kHz
Analog Inputs 2 x XLR-1/4" combo (mic/line), 1 x 1/4" (insturment)
Analog Outputs 2 x 1/4" TRS
Headphones 1 x 1/4" TRS
MIDI I/O 2 x 1/8", In/Out
USB 1 x USB-C (aux), 1 x USB-C (power/computer)
Bus Powered Yes
Power Supply USB bus powered
Height 1.9"
Width 6.2"
Depth 6.9"
Weight 1.5 lbs.

FAQs

What connectivity options are available on the PreSonus Quantum ES 2 audio interface?

The PreSonus Quantum ES 2 features USB-C connectivity for both power and computer interface, along with MIDI I/O via 1/8" jacks, and 2 x XLR-1/4" combo inputs for mic/line.

Is the PreSonus Quantum ES 2 compatible with major DAWs like Ableton Live or Pro Tools?

Yes, the PreSonus Quantum ES 2 is compatible with most major DAWs, including Ableton Live and Pro Tools, offering seamless integration for recording and production.

Can the PreSonus Quantum ES 2 be powered via USB?

Yes, the PreSonus Quantum ES 2 is USB bus-powered, eliminating the need for an external power supply, making it convenient for mobile recording setups.

What is the audio resolution capability of the PreSonus Quantum ES 2?

The PreSonus Quantum ES 2 supports high-quality audio resolution up to 24-bit/192kHz, ensuring professional-grade sound quality for recording and playback.

Does the PreSonus Quantum ES 2 include any software for music production?

Yes, the PreSonus Quantum ES 2 includes a 6-month membership to Studio One+, providing access to powerful music production tools and software.

Julian Krause

Julian Krause

PreSonus Quantum ES 2 REVIEW – More quantum than a physics video

Video thumbnail for PreSonus Quantum ES 2 REVIEW – More quantum than a physics video by Julian Krause

PreSonus Quantum ES 2 REVIEW – More quantum than a physics video

Julian Krause

Julian Krause

Video thumbnail for NEW USB-C Bus Powered Audio Interface from PreSonus | Quantum ES 2 by DcSoundOp

NEW USB-C Bus Powered Audio Interface from PreSonus | Quantum ES 2

DcSoundOp

DcSoundOp

Video thumbnail for Presonus Quantum ES2 - Killer Entry Level Interface by Barry Johns Studio Talk

Presonus Quantum ES2 - Killer Entry Level Interface

Barry Johns Studio Talk

Barry Johns Studio Talk

Video thumbnail for Presonus Quantum ES2 Hack & Discuss | Hot Tips | Audio Interface by Spark E Studio

Presonus Quantum ES2 Hack & Discuss | Hot Tips | Audio Interface

Spark E Studio

Spark E Studio

Video thumbnail for Presonus Quantum ES2 Review vs Vocaster Two Audio Interface by Spark E Studio

Presonus Quantum ES2 Review vs Vocaster Two Audio Interface

Spark E Studio

Spark E Studio

Video thumbnail for PreSonus Quantum ES 2 Review/Demo (Universal Control Fix!) by PsychoFace

PreSonus Quantum ES 2 Review/Demo (Universal Control Fix!)

PsychoFace

PsychoFace

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about PreSonus Quantum ES 2.

Software and compatibility

  • Universal Control software reportedly uses excessive CPU and RAM, significantly impacting performance on less powerful computers.

    Source
  • Users transitioning from Mac to Windows may find differences in peripheral compatibility, with specific devices like the UNITOR AMT8 not functioning on Windows without drivers.

    Source
  • Studio One's MIDI setup process can be more complex compared to other DAWs, requiring manual configuration of connected MIDI devices.

    Source
  • Issues with Universal Control can sometimes be resolved by reinstalling Microsoft C++ and Universal Control software, as suggested by tech support experiences.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Despite claims of software dependency, the Quantum ES2 has a manual gain control knob, allowing adjustment directly on the unit.

    Source
  • The Quantum ES2 does not include an SPDIF input, limiting connectivity options for users wanting to integrate older equipment.

    Source
  • MIDI breakout cables are not included with the Quantum ES2, requiring additional purchases for users needing MIDI functionality.

    Source
  • The Quantum ES 2 requires Thunderbolt-level power; a 20W USB-C charger plugged directly into the wall is recommended for reliable operation.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners have experienced persistent audio issues like cracks and pops, even at high buffer settings, contrasting with smoother performance on other interfaces like Focusrite.

    Source
  • Users report smooth real-time virtual instrument playback with no noticeable latency on powerful PCs, suggesting hardware performance is a key factor.

    Source
  • Some users report that the Quantum ES 2 connects after a delay if left powered on for a few minutes, indicating a potential workaround for connection issues.

    Source
  • Even with a powerful computer, bus-powered operation may be inefficient, requiring additional power supply for stable performance, leading some users to consider alternative interfaces.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some users found the Quantum ES2 less reliable compared to Focusrite interfaces, highlighting driver stability as a major issue.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Users switching from PC to Mac reported better compatibility and fewer audio issues, suggesting the Quantum ES2 may perform better on Mac systems.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • For a firmware reset, disconnect all connections, connect only a USB power supply, and perform a reset procedure by pressing and holding the button while powering on.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
dummbirb0

absolutely amazing

this is the only audio interface I've ever owned but for the price it seems amazing for basic needs. it all works extrremely intuitively and the software is one of the kinder DAWs to use.

Genre Usage

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

More PreSonus Audio Interfaces

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    ttinari
    ttinari

    Gear IQ 8326