The original iRig guitar interface was released back in 2010. It enables both guitar and bass players to connect their instruments to their iOS devices via applications such as IK’s AmpliTude and GarageBand. This way, iRig makes players feel like they’re playing and recording in an actual studio.
The first ever iRig enables you to connect your guitar to the iPad. It features a pre-amplifier that can enhance your guitar’s tones. It also includes the AmpliTube software for additional amplifier simulation, which is free, a noise filter, and a delay effect. Other effects are sold separately.
The iRig 2, a successor of the iRig, possesses its predecessor’s functionality but with additional advanced professional-level features, including an adjustable input gain, cross-platform compatibility, and an amplifier output of 6.35mm.
IK Multimedia’s latest released guitar interference is the iRig HD 2, which is highly portable and can effortlessly fit in your pocket. This model enables you to connect your instrument to your Mac, PC, or iOs devices via Lightning or USB connection.
Similar to both its predecessors, the iRig HD 2 has access to advanced features in the AmpliTube software and includes an amplifier, headphone outputs, and switches for FX/Thru. It is also equipped with a 24-bit, 96kHz input, and output that refines your sound quality.
IK Multimedia iRig Guitar Interfaces
iRig
Price:
$60.00 with AmpliTube full version (Discontinued)
Product Description:
The iRig guitar effect interface adapter is compatible with any of your preferred apple mobile devices. It is a device that combines an instrument interface adapter and software for guitar/bass tones.
You can jam anywhere with access to premium guitar and bass tones in the palm of your hand with AmpliTube iRig. All you have to do is connect iRig to your guitar and your iPhone, iPod Touch, or iPad with the AmpliTube software, and connect iRig to headphones, amp, or powered speakers.
Features:
- iOS mobile device compatibility (iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad).
- Intuitive and simple to use
- Enhances your guitar tones into studio-quality sounds via headphones, guitar amplifiers, or powered speakers
- The adapter is the iRig guitar interface adapter itself
- Amplitube Software
- By connecting your guitar or bass to your iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad with iRig, both amps, and effects are always accessible with no additional setup required.
Specifications:
Dimensions:
- Diameter: 20mm
- Height: 70mm
Package Inclusions:
- iRig guitar interface
iRig HD
Price:
$100.00 (Discontinued)
Product Description:
IK Multimedia’s iRig HD Guitar Interface for iOS and Mac is designed specifically to let you play and record with your guitar or other line-level instruments while being connected to an iOS device or Mac.
The iRig HD features 24-bit analog to digital conversion and a low-noise pre-amplifier with 26dB of input gain control. It has a single 1/4″ Hi-Z instrument input that is also compatible with line-level signals from synthesizers, keyboards, or mixers.
It has low draw power consumption circuitry that enables it to be powered via a USB or iOS device without the need for batteries.
This device features a 35-gram body for portability. IK Multimedia provides a Lightning input compatibility connector and a USB connector for connecting your Mac. It works with a variety of real-time processing software that supports digital audio, including GarageBand, and IK AmpliTube applications that are offered in the App Store.
Features:
- 1/4-inch or 6.35mm Hi-Z-Instrument/Line-Level Input
- Pre-amplifier Gain Control
- 24-Bit A/D Conversion
- Compatible with Mac and iOS Devices
- Powered by USB/iOS Devices
Specifications:
- Maximum Level: 330 mVpp to 7 Vpp
- Gain Control Range: 26 dB
- Noise: -103dBA, -97 dB RMS
- Distortion (THD): 0.005%
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz (+/- 0.2 dB)
Dimensions:
- Diameter: 0.85-inch or 21mm
- Height: 3.90-inches or 99mm
- Width: 1.18-inches or 30mm
- Weight: 45 grams or 1.23 ounce
Package Inclusions:
- iRig HD guitar interface
- iOS Lightning Cable
- USB Cable
Compatibility:
- iPhone 4, iPhone 4s, iPhone 5, iPod Touch 4th generation, iPod Touch 5th generation, iPad 2nd Generation, iPad 3rd Generation, iPad 4th Generation, iPad mini, iOS software 5.1 and later
Computer
- Mac: OSX 10.5 or later with 1 USB port
iRig 2
Price:
$39.99-$49.99
Product Description:
The most renowned guitar interface has been newly improved. The iRig 2 is an enhanced version of the revolutionary iRig. In 2010, the first-ever iRig made it possible for guitarists and bassists to connect to their Apple mobile devices and use it to play, practice, and record music using applications including IK’s AmpliTube, Apple’s GarageBand, and many more.
The iRig 2 comes equipped with advanced features such as an adjustable input gain, cross-platform compatibility, and a 1/4″ or 6.35mm amplifier output, iRig 2 expands on the success of its predecessor and completely changes how you create music while on the go.
Features:
- The new and improved model of the best-selling iRig interface
- Guitar, bass, and other instruments line connectivity via a 1/4-inch or 6.35mm instrument jack
- External amplifier connectivity via a 1/4-inch or 6.35mm output without the need for an adaptor
- iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, and Mac compatibility via 1/8-inch or 3.5mm TRRS output
- 1/8-inch or 3.5mm Headphone output
- Packed and lightweight design
- FX and Thru dual-mode selectable switch
- Easy signal control courtesy of input gain thumbwheel
- Equipped with Velcro strip microphone stand
- AmpliTube (Free download for all iOS devices)
Specifications:
- Input Impedance: 380 kOhms
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz (+/- 0.2 dB)
- Instrument Input Connection: 1/4-inch or 6.35mm Jack
- Amplifier Output Connection: 1/4-inch or 6.35mm Jack
- Device Output Connection: 1/8-inch or 3.5mm TRRS Jack
- Headphone Output Connection: 1/8-inch or 3.5mm Jack
Dimensions:
- Diameter: 0.85-inch or 20mm
- Height: 2.83-inches or 72mm
- Width: 1.54-inches or 39mm
- Weight: 43 grams or 1.57 ounce
Package Inclusions:
- iRig 2 guitar interface
- Microphone stand Velcro-slot (Detachable)
- Velcro strip
Compatibility:
- iOS Devices: iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch devices with an onboard or external 3.5mm or 1/8-inch standard headset input that complies with the CTIA/AHJ wiring standard.
iRig HD 2
Price:
$99.99-$119.99
Product Description:
The iRig HD 2 is compatible with your iPad, iPhone, Mac, or PC. It is small enough to fit easily in your pocket and connects directly to your Lightning and USB devices. No complex setup is required; plug it in and start using it. The iRig HD 2 helps you generate pro sounds at 96kHz, and has stage-ready attributes. You connect it anywhere to your iOS device or PC.
The iRig HD 2, the upgraded version of the successful iRig HD interface, and is now being offered to you by the innovators and leaders in mobile music making.
Features:
- 96kHz Digital Audio with 24-bit A/D conversion
- Switchable 1/4-inch or 6.35mm amplifier output jack with output “FX” and “Thru”
- 1/8-inch or 3.5mm Headphone output with level control and preamplifier
- Includes Velcro strip and mounting clip for microphone stand
- Includes TONEX SE for Mac/PC, AmpliTube 5 SE for Mac/PC, and one free additional bonus software title of your choice from a list of titles.
- AmpliTube for iOS’s full features and equipment are unlocked (Free download from App Store)
- Enhanced Windows performance courtesy of a custom ASIO driver
Specifications:
Common:
- Conversion: 24-bit A/D, 24-bit D/A
- Sampling Rate: 32.0 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 88.2 kHz and 96 kHz
Input:
- Maximum Level: from 307 mVpp to 8.36 Vpp
- Gain Control Range: 28.7 dB
- Noise: -103dBA, -97 dB RMS
- Distortion (THD): 0.007%
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz +/- 0.9 dB
Output:
- Maximum Level: 1.60 Vpp
- Noise: -99dBA, -94 dB RMS
- Distortion (THD): 0.007%
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz +/- 0.1 dB
Dimensions:
- Diameter: 0.83-inch or 21mm
- Height: 3.9-inches or 99mm
- Width: 1.53-inches or 39mm
- Weight: 51 grams or 1.8 ounce
Package Inclusions:
- iRig HD 2 interface
- Lightning to Micro-USB cable (600mm/23.62-inch)
- USB-A to Micro-USB cable (600mm/23.62-inch)
- USB-C to Micro-USB cable (600mm/23.62-inch)
- Detachable microphone stand mounting clip
- Velcro strip
Compatibility:
- iPhone SE, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6 Plus! iPhone 6, iPhone 5s, iPhone 5c, iPhone 5, iPod touch 6th generation, iPod touch 5th generation, iPad Pro (9.7-inch), iPad Pro (12.9-inch), iPad mini 4, iPad Air 2, iPad mini 3, iPad Air, iPad mini 2, iPad 4th generation, iPad mini
- Compatible with all the latest models of the iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.
Computers
- Mac: Mac OS X 10.6 or later. One free USB port.
- Windows: One free USB port. The iRig audio driver from IK Multimedia must be installed for low latency.
iRig 2 Vs iRig HD 2
Since the iRig 2 and iRig HD 2 is the successor of the best-selling guitar interface iRig and iRig HD, they offer more advanced settings and features, making them superior. Both the iRig and iRig HD are no longer manufactured, so we’re going to compare its successors—the iRig 2 and iRig HD 2 instead.
Before we begin comparing both guitar interfaces, it is important to note that both models experience zero latency during use. The sound is somewhat muffled by the iRig 2. Contrarily, the iRig 2 HD eradicates this potential flaw and offers more richness and completeness in your sounds.
iRig 2
The iRig 2 package contains the guitar interface, a detachable mic stand with a Velcro slot, and a Velcro strap. Regardless of its simplicity, this device’s package inclusions are all you will need to use it.
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact design
- Charging may be done by plugging it into a headphone jack during play
- Offers minimal delay and excellent sound transmission quality during play
- Reasonable price
Cons:
- Limited integrated volume controls
- Compared to the iRig 2 HD, the sound is a little bit muffled
- Feedback problems, especially if you don’t use a noise gate pedal
iRig HD 2
The iRig HD 2 offers more capability than the iRig 2. As previously mentioned, this device’s connection is a little lacking compared to its predecessor, so the Lightning-to-Mini-USB cable and USB to micro USB cable included in its packaging are helpful for resolving the issue. This package also comes with a Velcro strap and a detachable microphone stand.
Pros:
- Portable even if it’s slightly bigger than the iRig 2
- Integrated volume controls
- No feedback issues and no delay
- Ability to transmit high-definition audio
Cons:
- Requires an additional PowerBridge if you intend to charge it during play
Comparison Table Between The iRig 2 And iRig HD 2
Dimension
| Category | iRig 2 | iRig HD 2 |
| Size | Diameter: 0.85-inch or 20mm Height: 2.83-inches or 72mm Width: 1.54-inches or 39mm | Diameter: 0.83-inch or 21mm Height: 3.9-inches or 99mm Width: 1.53-inches or 39mm |
| Weight | 43 grams or 1.57 ounce | 51 grams or 1.8 ounce |
Specifications
| iRig 2 | iRig HD 2 |
| Input Impedance: 380 kOhms | Common: Conversion: 24-bit A/D, 24-bit D/A Sampling Rate: 32.0 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 88.2 kHz and 96 kHz |
| Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz (+/- 0.2 dB) | Input: Maximum Level: from 307 mVpp to 8.36 Vpp Gain Control Range: 28.7 dB Noise: -103dBA, -97 dB RMS Distortion (THD): 0.007% Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz +/- 0.9 dB |
| Instrument Input Connection: 1/4-inch or 6.35mm | Output: Maximum Level: 1.60 Vpp Noise: -99dBA, -94 dB RMS Distortion (THD): 0.007% Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz +/- 0.1 dB |
| Jack Amplifier Output Connection: 1/4-inch or 6.35mm | |
| Jack Device Output Connection: 1/8-inch or 3.5mm | |
| TRRS Jack Headphone Output Connection: 1/8-inch or 3.5mm Jack |
Monitoring And Controls
| Category | iRig 2 | iRig HD 2 |
| Control | Input Gain Control | Input Gain Control |
| Monitoring | Software & Direct (THRU) 6.35mm or ¼-inch monitoring | Software & Direct (THRU) 6.35mm or ¼-inch monitoring |
Connection And Compatibility
| Category | iRig 2 | iRig HD 2 |
| Connection Type | 3.5mm (1/8″) TRRSCTIA/AHJ Wiring Standard | Micro-USB |
| Compatibility | iOS Devices: iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch devices with an onboard or external 3.5mm or 1/8-inch standard headset input that complies with the CTIA/AHJ wiring standard | Compatible with all the latest models of the iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.Mac: Mac OS X 10.6 or later. One free USB port.Windows: One free USB port. The iRig audio driver from IK Multimedia must be installed for low latency |
Applications (Software)
| iRig 2 | iRig HD 2 |
| AmpliTube CS (iOS): 4 exclusive amps/stomps | AmpliTube CS (iOS), AmpliTube Essentials pack, Cubasis LE (iOS),AmpliTube 4 (Mac/PC) |
Package Inclusions
| iRig 2 | iRig HD 2 |
| iRig 2 guitar interface, Microphone stand, Velcro-slot (Detachable), Velcro strip | iRig HD 2 interface, Lightning to Micro-USB cable (600mm/23.62-inch), USB-A to Micro-USB cable (600mm/23.62-inch), USB-C to Micro-USB cable (600mm/23.62-inch), Detachable microphone stand mounting clip, Velcro strip |
Key Takeaway
The iRig 2 and iRig HD 2 may seem similar at first glance, but they are highly different from one another. Although both devices are outstanding, the iRig HD 2 has superiority over the iRig 2.
The main deciding factor is the iRig 2 lack of onboard volume control and generates sounds that are a bit muddy which commonly has static and feedback problems.
Despite the IK Multimedia iRig HD 2 being the more expensive option, its performance is overall superior and will surely give you your money’s worth.
Therefore, if you are planning to purchase a guitar interface, it is a must to check out IK Multimedia’s iRig HD 2.
