Yamaha

Yamaha UR12 Steinberg USB Audio Interface

4.5 (2120 reviews)
USB 2.048Vphantom powerXLR

The Steinberg UR12 delivers 24-bit/192 kHz recording quality with a Class-A D-PRE mic preamp in a compact, USB-powered interface.

$91.99*$114.99Save 20%
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jul 14, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

The Yamaha Steinberg UR12 is a compact USB 2.0 audio interface designed for musicians, podcasters, and producers who need professional-quality recording in a simple, portable package. At its core is a 24-bit/192 kHz audio engine that captures audio with high fidelity and wide dynamic range. The single Class-A D-PRE microphone preamp—developed by Yamaha—delivers clean, transparent amplification with switchable +48V phantom power, making it compatible with both dynamic and condenser microphones. A dedicated Hi-Z instrument input on a 1/4-inch TS jack accommodates electric guitars and basses directly, without needing a separate DI box.

The UR12 draws power entirely from USB when connected to a Mac or Windows PC, eliminating the need for an external power supply and keeping your setup clean and portable. For mobile recording, it also works with iPad via an Apple Camera Connection Kit, with a secondary USB mini socket providing supplementary power. Two RCA line outputs connect to studio monitors or a playback system. Cross-platform driver support for Windows and OS X ensures broad compatibility, and the included Cubase AI software provides a capable DAW to get you recording immediately. While the UR12 is intentionally simple—one mic in, one instrument in, two outs—that simplicity is its strength for solo creators who want reliable, high-quality audio capture without unnecessary complexity.

Key Features

24-bit/192 kHz USB 2.0 audio interface

1 Class-A D-PRE mic preamp supporting Plus-48V phantom power

1 Mic input(XLR) and 1 Hi-Z instrument input (TS), 2 line outputs(RCA)

Cross-platform compatibility with Windows, OS X and iPad (with Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit/Lightening to USB Camera Adapter)

USB-powered for mobile recordings with Mac and, additional USB mini socket for power source connection when used with the iPad

Specifications

Brand
Yamaha / Steinberg
Model
UR12
Audio Resolution
24-bit / 192 kHz
Connection
USB 2.0
Mic Preamp
1 x Class-A D-PRE (+48V Phantom Power)
Mic Input
1 x XLR
Instrument Input
1 x Hi-Z TS (1/4")
Line Outputs
2 x RCA
Power
USB Bus Powered (USB mini for iPad)
Compatibility
Windows, OS X, iPad (with adapter)

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • 24-bit/192 kHz audio resolution captures studio-quality recordings with excellent detail and dynamic range
  • Class-A D-PRE mic preamp delivers clean, transparent gain with low noise for vocals and acoustic instruments
  • USB bus-powered design means no external power adapter needed when used with a Mac or PC
  • Compact and lightweight form factor makes it easy to transport for mobile or on-location recordings
  • iPad compatibility extends its use to portable recording setups outside the studio

👎 Cons

  • Only one mic input and one instrument input, limiting it to solo recording without an external mixer
  • RCA line outputs are less common in studio setups, which typically use balanced TRS or XLR outputs
  • No MIDI input or output, requiring a separate interface if you work with MIDI hardware
  • Lacks onboard direct monitoring with mix control, which can make latency-free monitoring less flexible
  • Only two output channels with no headphone volume independent of main output

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it has one XLR mic input and one Hi-Z TS instrument input that can be used simultaneously, allowing you to record vocals and guitar together in a single take.
When connected to a Mac or PC, it runs entirely on USB bus power. When used with an iPad, an additional USB mini power connection is needed since the iPad cannot supply enough power on its own.
Yes, the UR12 includes switchable +48V phantom power on the XLR mic input, so it can power condenser microphones directly.
The UR12 typically comes bundled with Cubase AI, Steinberg's introductory DAW, giving you a complete recording setup out of the box.
Yes, it works with iPad when connected via an Apple Camera Connection Kit or Lightning to USB Camera Adapter, with a secondary USB mini socket providing the necessary power.