Behringer UM2

Connects an XLR mic to Windows and Mac over USB, with phantom power for condenser mics. Not a console path.

Audio interfaceThe smallest Behringer interface for one mic, with 48 V, a direct-monitor switch and RCA outputs for desktop speakers

Platform connections

Connects to
Windows XP or later (Behringer driver) · Mac OS X (no driver needed)
Phantom power
48 V, switchable

“Works” means the maker lists that platform for the connection shown; “Maker doesn't say” means it doesn't mention it either way. On a headset, it also depends on the edition you pick.

Behringer UM2: how it connects and what you can adjust

How it connects

  1. Microphone + XLR cable
  2. Behringer UM2
  3. USB to computer
  4. Chat input
Connections
XLR/TRS combo mic or line input · 1/4-inch instrument input · 1/4-inch headphone output · 2 RCA line outputs · USB-B (USB 1.1)
Mute
Not listed by the maker
Hear yourself
Yes: the Direct Monitor switch sends your mic straight to your headphones

Choose it if…

  • You have an XLR microphone and need a microphone preamp to connect it to your computer.
  • You want to hear your own voice through headphones while you play.
  • You have desk space for the interface and access to its gain and headphone controls.

Before choosing this model

  • One mic input: the second input is for a guitar or bass.
  • It records at up to 48 kHz over USB 1.1; Behringer doesn't state the bit depth.
  • Behringer says Windows needs its driver and a Mac needs none; the driver link on its page goes to ASIO4ALL, a third-party site.
  • No mute button and no loopback: mute in your chat app, the game or Windows.
  • Behringer names no console for it, and publishes no box list beyond the USB cable.
  • A USB plug doesn't mean it works on a console: check which platforms its maker lists on this page.
  • Leave desk space for the interface and its cables, and pick the stand or arm for your mic.
  • Also needed: XLR mic and XLR cable; headphones.

Others like it

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Controls and specifications

Windows XP or later (Behringer driver) · Mac OS X (no driver needed). Software: Not listed by the maker.

Connections, controls and fit
Connections XLR/TRS combo mic or line input · 1/4-inch instrument input · 1/4-inch headphone output · 2 RCA line outputs · USB-B (USB 1.1)
Microphone mute Not listed by the maker
Monitoring Yes: the Direct Monitor switch sends your mic straight to your headphones
Chat controls gain knob · Direct Monitor switch · +48 V switch
Mounts Not listed by the maker
Dimensions 46.45 x 128 x 118 mm
In the box and parts
Included parts Interface · USB cable
Additional parts XLR mic and XLR cable · Headphones
Manufacturer specifications for Behringer UM2.
Connections XLR/TRS combo mic/line input · 1/4-inch TRS instrument input · 1/4-inch headphone output · 2 RCA line outputs · USB 1.1 type B
Phantom power available 48 V, switchable
Processing XENYX mic preamp
Sample rates 32, 44.1 and 48 kHz
Direct monitoring Direct Monitor switch, zero latency
Drivers Mac: class compliant, no driver; Windows: download the USB driver (the page's driver link goes to asio4all.org)
Operating system versions Mac OS X, Windows XP or higher
Power USB bus power, 2.5 W maximum
Maximum input level Mic +2 dBu, line +22 dBu, instrument +2 dBu
Dynamic range 100 dB A-weighted
Console statement None found on Behringer's pages
Dimensions 46.45 x 128 x 118 mm (H x W x D)
Weight 300 g

Questions about the Behringer UM2

Can I hear myself through the Behringer UM2?

Its maker lists: Yes: the Direct Monitor switch sends your mic straight to your headphones.

Set it up for game chat.

  1. Connect the parts shown in the diagram. If you use XLR, connect the microphone to the interface before selecting it in your app.

  2. Choose the intended input in the operating system. Run the Discord input check or use your console’s microphone test.

  3. Check speaking level and mute with headphones on. Change only one gain, sensitivity or suppression control between tests.

References