Universal Audio Volt 276 Recording Studio

Universal Audio studio heritage in a desktop format

The Volt 276 Recording Studio combines a USB interface with two preamps and analog processing accessible directly on the unit. Within the Volt family, it stands apart from models without a compressor thanks to its integrated 76 circuit. This is not a software effect to be added after recording: you shape the signal at the source, using an approach inspired by Universal Audio 610 and 1176 equipment.

For musicians and creators who want to start recording quickly

A vocal and a guitar recorded together, two microphones for an acoustic session, or the stereo outputs of a synthesizer: the two inputs allow for several home studio configurations. Instrument modes accommodate a guitar or bass directly, while phantom power lets you use compatible condenser microphones. Separate volume controls for the headphones and speakers make it easy to switch monitoring during the session.

A simple recording chain, with character within reach

Vintage Mode: choose the color before you play

Available on each channel, Vintage mode uses an analog circuit inspired by the character of the UA 610 tube preamp. It works with mic, line, and instrument sources. This allows you either to keep a recording free of this coloration or to seek greater harmonic richness, without modifying your software chain. The Volt 276 does not contain a 610 tube preamp, however: it offers a dedicated analog interpretation of one.

76 Compression: three approaches to dynamics

The integrated compressor offers the VOC, GTR and FAST settings, as well as a bypass position. VOC favors smooth vocal compression, GTR lets more of the attack through and promotes sustain, while FAST responds more quickly. These presets can also be used on other sources: choose the one that best serves the performance. Gain adjustment may be necessary after activation.

Immediate monitoring to stay focused on the performance

Direct monitoring lets you listen to the inputs without passing through the buffers of your recording software. You can choose centered mono or stereo monitoring, which is especially useful for a keyboard. If you prefer to listen to your software effects while recording, latency will then depend on the buffer settings and the processing being used. The Volt 276 does not feature a DSP designed to run UAD DSP plug-ins.

A setup that fits into your production environment

Compatible with Mac, Windows, iPad and iPhone depending on the required configuration, the Volt 276 can be powered by a sufficiently powerful USB port. An external power supply and adapter may be required with a mobile device. The software bundle includes LUNA and a selection of Universal Audio and partner tools to extend your recording and mixing workflow; its contents may change.

Technical specifications

Desktop USB audio interface	2 inputs and 2 simultaneous outputs.	Instrument inputs	111 dB A-weighted dynamic range ; maximum level of 12.5 dBu ; impedance of 1 MΩ.
Computer connection	USB 2.0 via USB Type-C connector.	Line inputs	111 dB A-weighted dynamic range ; maximum level of 22 dBu ; impedance of 15 kΩ.
Resolution	24-bit.	Monitoring outputs	2 on 6.35 mm jacks, compatible with balanced TRS and unbalanced TS connections.
Sample rates	44.1 ; 48 ; 88.2 ; 96 ; 176.4 and 192 kHz.	Headphone output	1 stereo output on a 6.35 mm jack.
Audio inputs	2 XLR/6.35 mm jack combo inputs for microphones, instruments and line sources.	Volume controls	independent for the headphones and monitoring outputs ; shared monitor signal.
Preamps	2, with gain up to 55 dB.	Switchable direct monitoring	mono, stereo or off.
Instrument mode	high impedance, switchable per channel.	MIDI connectivity	1 input and 1 output on 5-pin DIN connectors.
Vintage mode	activatable per channel.	Windows compatibility	Windows 10 or Windows 11 64-bit ; driver available via UA Connect.
76 analog compressor per channel	VOC, GTR, FAST or off.	macOS compatibility	Catalina 10.15 or later.
Phantom power	+48 V switchable, shared by both XLR inputs.	iOS and iPadOS compatibility	14 or later ; adapter and external power supply may be required.
Mic inputs	112 dB A-weighted dynamic range ; maximum level of 9 dBu ; impedance of 3 kΩ.	Internet connection	required to download the software.
Equivalent input noise for mic inputs	-127 dBu, with a 150-ohm load, A-weighted.	Software	LUNA and a selection of Universal Audio and partner plug-ins and instruments, depending on the available offer and activation conditions.