Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 10 stores. Prices updated .
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Price
Average Price: $128
Budget/Beginner
$150
$501+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 8 merchants for "Universal Audio Volt 1 USB-C Audio Interface". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Universal Audio Volt 1 USB-C Audio Interface is a powerhouse tool designed for musicians, singers, and podcasters alike. This compact, desktop 1-in/2-out USB 2.0 recording interface delivers exceptional 24-bit/192kHz audio conversion quality, making your home or on-the-go recording sessions sound as if they were done in a professional studio.
The Volt 1 Interface takes pride in its Vintage Mic Preamp mode, which is inspired by the legendary Universal Audio 610 tube preamp. This feature allows you to capture the rich, full, classic sound of your vocals or instruments, adding an authentic vintage touch to your recordings.
The Volt 1 package also includes a curated suite of leading audio and music software tools, including Ableton, Melodyne, UJAM’s Virtual Drummer, Marshall, Ampeg, and more. This means you'll have all the creative control and flexibility you need to produce high-quality music right at your fingertips.
Designed with a sleek, vintage-inspired industrial aesthetic, this unit not only enhances your audio production but also your studio space. Its rugged, all-metal construction is built to last, ensuring that the Volt 1 will be your reliable recording companion for years to come.
Key Features:
- Desktop 1-in/2-out USB audio interface with professional 24-bit/192 kHz audio conversion
- Vintage Mic Preamp mode for warm, classic sound
- Essential suite of audio and music software including Ableton, Melodyne, UJAM’s Virtual Drummer, Marshall, Ampeg, and more
- Studio-quality headphone amplifier for loud, clear monitoring
- USB bus powered for convenience and reduced cable clutter
- 48V phantom power for condenser microphones
- Direct Monitoring for latency-free recording
- Rugged, all-metal construction for long-lasting durability
- 1-in/1-out MIDI connections
- Includes USB-C to USB-A cable
Product specs
| Computer Connectivity | USB 2.0 |
| Form Factor | Desktop |
| Simultaneous I/O | 1 x 2 |
| Number of Preamps | 1 x mic |
| Phantom Power | Yes |
| A/D Resolution | 24-bit/192kHz |
| Analog Inputs | 1 x XLR-1/4" combo (mic/instrument) |
| Analog Outputs | 2 x 1/4" (L/R) |
| Headphones | 1 x 1/4" |
| MIDI I/O | In/Out |
| USB | 1 x USB-C |
| Software | LUNA DAW Software, PolyMAX Synth, Century Tube Channel Strip, Teletronix LA-2A Leveler, Pultec Passive EQ, Ableton Live Lite |
| OS Requirements - Mac | macOS 10.15 or later, iOS 14 or later |
| OS Requirements - PC | Windows 10 or later (64-bit) |
| Bus Powered | Yes |
| Power Supply | USB bus powered / 5V DC power supply (sold separately) |
| Height | 1.96" |
| Width | 5.70" |
| Depth | 5.11" |
| Weight | 1.20 lbs. |
FAQs
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What are the main connectivity options for the Universal Audio Volt 1?
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The Universal Audio Volt 1 offers USB 2.0 connectivity via a USB-C port, with analog inputs including a single XLR-1/4" combo for mic or instrument and analog outputs featuring two 1/4" jacks for left/right channels.
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Is the Universal Audio Volt 1 compatible with major DAWs like Ableton Live and Pro Tools?
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Yes, the Volt 1 is compatible with major DAWs including Ableton Live, which is bundled with the interface. It also integrates well with other popular DAWs like Pro Tools, thanks to its standard USB connectivity and driver support.
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Does the Universal Audio Volt 1 require an external power supply?
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The Volt 1 is USB bus powered, meaning it can operate directly from your computer's USB port. However, it can also be powered via a 5V DC power supply, which is sold separately.
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What type of preamp is included in the Universal Audio Volt 1?
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The Volt 1 includes a high-quality mic preamp, capable of providing phantom power for condenser microphones, ensuring professional-grade audio capture.
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Is the Universal Audio Volt 1 suitable for mobile recording setups?
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Yes, with its compact desktop form factor, USB bus power, and compatibility with macOS and iOS, the Volt 1 is well-suited for mobile recording setups.
Videos
Ola Englund
UAD VOLT 1 - BEST BUDGET RECORDING INTERFACE FOR GUITARISTS?
UAD VOLT 1 - BEST BUDGET RECORDING INTERFACE FOR GUITARISTS?
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Universal Audio Volt 1: Audio Interface with a SECRET...
The GarageBand Guide
UAD Volt 1 Review - Universal Audio Ruined It
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Universal Audio Volt 1 - UNBOXING, SOUND TEST, REVIEW
kris sheehy
Reviews
PROS
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Quick and easy setup process
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Comes with high-quality free plugins
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Excellent build quality with a sophisticated retro aesthetic
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Intuitive placement of knobs and LED indicators for easy use
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Professional quality sound recording capabilities
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Powerful built-in headphone amplifier
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Portable with USB-C connectivity
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Reliable performance without latency or audio glitches
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Versatile for mixing, mastering, and video/podcast editing
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Complementary software enhances recording and sound production
CONS
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Slightly more expensive than competitors
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Monitoring volume cannot be adjusted on the device
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Balance between left and right channels may not match at some volume levels
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Universal Audio Volt 1 USB-C Audio Interface.
Features and functionality
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The Volt 1 offers headphone amplifier quality that excels in driving high-impedance headphones like Beyer 250 ohms, ensuring great detail and separation.
Source -
The Volt 1's preamp implementation seems to outperform its stats, providing a cleaner gain path that users appreciate when working with dynamic mics.
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Direct USB-C to USB-C connection to a MacBook Air is recommended over using a hub to potentially reduce latency.
Source -
Users question the impact of cable wattage (60W vs. 100W) on interface power supply when using USB-C to USB-C connections.
Source
Comparisons
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Compared to the Scarlett 2i2, the Volt 1 allows better control over input levels, particularly useful for DI recording of guitar and bass.
Source -
Users report that despite having less gain on paper, the Volt 1 requires less gain knob adjustment for an SM7b compared to other interfaces like SSL and Audient.
Source
Software and compatibility
Use cases and applications
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Owners appreciate the portable design and dual power options (USB bus or wall outlet) of the Volt 1, enhancing its reliability during travel or long-term use.
Source -
Users note that the Volt 1 excels in portable setups due to its robust build and ability to handle gain-hungry microphones efficiently, making it ideal for travel.
Source
User experience
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Some users report issues with hardware monitoring, noting that input signals are only heard on one headphone side unless the MONO button is used.
Source -
Owners with high-end mics like the Neumann TLM103 find the Volt 1 delivers unexpectedly clean results with less noise, challenging its on-paper specs.
Source
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 3 Ratings
92
Great lil interface for the price
Not a bad interface if you want something better then a starter pack focusrite 2i2. not to bash focusrite there higher end interfaces are rad. but great portable.
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
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