Zoom’s U-44 Handy Audio Interface lets you record and monitor up to four channels simultaneously, whether you’re in the studio or on the go with your iPad. The U-44 features all the connectors you’ll need for microphones, line-level sources, guitars, and more.
On the other hand, iRig Pro Duo, a fully universal “all-platform” portable recording is finally possible. It includes every connector you’ll need to connect to your iPhone, iPad, Android device, or Mac/PC, including Lightning, USB-OTG, and USB cables, so you can capture brilliance no matter where you are or what device you’re using.
Zoom u44
When it comes to mobility, few audio interfaces match Zoom’s U-44. USB bus power is merely the beginning of the U-44. For one thing, when bus power isn’t available, it can function on a pair of AA batteries, making it a great audio interface to carry with your iPad (Camera Connection Kit required). Because the U-44 is so little, you can easily slip it into your jacket pocket and record whenever and wherever inspiration strikes.
Pros of Zoom u44
- Recording interface that fits in your pocket and is ready to go.
- All of the necessary connectors are included, as well as a Zoom Capsule input.
- Zoom’s top-of-the-line preamps and converters are included.
Cons of Zoom u44
- The usage of analog inputs 3–4 necessitates the purchase of optional equipment.
- There is only one headphone output.
Irig Pro Duo
The iRig Pro Duo is the world’s smallest full-featured dual-channel interface. Its slim, lightweight thermoplastic casing is built to withstand the rigors of life on the road, session after session. We made it small enough to fit in the palm of your hand and small enough to fit in any backpack, gig bag, or even your pocket.
The iRig Pro Duo is a very sophisticated and interconnected interface. It has two channels with XLR/TRS combination audio connectors and phantom power to support everything including high-end phantom-powered condenser mics to guitars, basses, keyboards, and other instruments. Each channel has its own input gain control, allowing you to fine-tune the amount of signal input for your recording.
Pros of Irig Pro Duo
- Design that is both compact and tough
- Easily transportable
- Preamps and recordings of high quality
- A wide variety of audio applications
- And it doesn’t matter if you’re in or out of the studio.
- A good software package
Cons of Irig Pro Duo
- The use of electricity is optional.
- A proprietary connection is used on Lightning/device cords.
Zoom u44 Vs Irig Pro Duo
| Zoom u44 | Irig Pro Duo | |
| INPUTS | • 2 x XLR-1/4″ combo (Hi-Z option input 1) • 1 x 10-pin Mic input (Zoom H-Series Mic capsules) | • 2x XLR/TS Combo (Hi-Z Instrument & Microphone input with phantom power) • 2.5mm MIDI IN |
| OUTPUTS | • 2 x 1/4″ (main out) • 2 x RCA stereo pairs • 1 x 1/4″ (headphones) | • 3.5mm (1/8″) Headphone Out • 2x Balanced 6.35mm (1/4″) TRS Line-level Out • 2.5mm MIDI OUT |
| CONTROLS | Yes | Yes |
| CONNECTION TYPE | USB | Mini-DIN |
| MONITORING | Licensed Audio Software | Software & Direct Monitoring |
| COMPATIBILITY | • OS X 10.8 or later (iPad use Camera Connection kit or Lightning to USB Camera adapter) • Windows 7 or later | • iOS (iPhone/iPod/iPad) • Mac • PC • Android |
| SIZE | 1.68″ x 3.63″ x 7.83″ | 75mm/2.95″ x 127mm/5″ x 37mm/1.46″ |
| WEIGHT | 0.68 lbs. | 197.2g/6.96oz (batteries excluded) |
| INCLUDED APPS | • AmpliTube CS (iOS) – AmpliTube Essentials pack • SampleTank CS (iOS) – 48 exclusive bonus sounds & “The Grid” sound collection • iGrand Piano FREE (iOS) – full 88-key range & 1 exclusive bonus sound • iLectric Piano (iPad) – 1 exclusive bonus sound VocaLive CS (iOS) – 3 bonus mic models Mic Room LE (iOS) – 2 bonus mic models • iGrand Piano FREE (Android) – full 88-key range & 1 exclusive bonus sound • iLectric Piano (Android) – 1 exclusive bonus sound | |
| WARRANTY | Two (2) Year Warranty | One (1) Year Warranty PARTS, Ninety (90) Days Warranty LABOR |
Comparison
One of the most noticeable changes in the size of both devices. The iRig Pro Duo delivers outstanding recording quality while also allowing you to carry it around with you. The Zoom u44 has two channels with XLR/TRS audio connectors and phantom power, allowing you to connect everything from high-end phantom-powered condenser mics to guitars, basses, keyboards, and other instruments.
