Universal Audio Volt 1

One channel of UA preamp character for solo creators

Best for: Solo podcasters or vocalists who want UA preamp coloring and iOS compatibility in the smallest possible form factor

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The Volt 1 is a 1-in/2-out USB 2.0 interface with a single XLR/TRS/Hi-Z combo input and the same Vintage mic preamp mode found in the Volt 2. It delivers 24-bit/192 kHz audio and runs class-compliant on Mac, Windows, and iOS. Compact and bus-powered, it's built for single-mic situations.

Key features

  • 24-bit / 192 kHz converters
  • Vintage mic preamp mode (610 tube circuit-inspired)
  • USB 2.0 class-compliant, iOS compatible
  • 1 XLR/TRS/Hi-Z combo input with 48V phantom power
  • 1-in / 2-out signal path
  • Bus powered, compact desktop form factor

Our take

If you're recording alone - one voice, one microphone - the Volt 1 covers the job with a preamp pedigree that most interfaces at this size can't match. The Vintage mode is the same 610-inspired circuit as the Volt 2. Where the Volt 1 loses points is simple: one input means zero flexibility for recording a second source simultaneously, and USB 2.0 (not USB-C) means you may need a dongle on a MacBook. For a dedicated home studio voice setup, it's a smart buy. For anyone who ever records interviews in person, get the Volt 2.

Pros

  • Vintage mode analog character in a single-input box
  • Class-compliant iOS and Mac/Windows support
  • Extremely compact and bus-powered
  • Good headphone output for monitoring

Cons

  • Single input only - no co-host capability
  • USB 2.0, not USB-C
  • No MIDI I/O

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