U-44 Handy Audio Interface (2024)

The U-44 is a compact, 4-in/4-out audio interface that enables you to record and perform wherever you are. Small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, the U-44 comes equipped with the features you need to record 24-bit/96 kHz audioanywhere.

The U-44 offers the same high-quality, low-noise mic preamps as our acclaimedH5 and H6 Handy Recorders, plus compatibility with Zoom’s Interchangeable Input Capsules for incredible possibilities. Use the U-44 with your PC, Mac, or iPhone/iPad via USB—or as a standalone AD/DA converter and mic preamp. No other audio interface provides this much versatility, value, andperformance.

The World is Your Studio

Wherever you want to record, the bus-powered U-44 forms the perfect centerpiece of your mobile studio. Connect instruments, monitors, and other devices when you’re recording at home—or hook it up to your iPhone/iPad* to make music on the go. If bus power isn’t available, the U-44 can run on just two AA batteries, allowing you to recordanywhere.

*Requires 2 AA batteries or optional AC adapter for power, plus an Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit or Lightning-to-USB Camera Adapter for connection toiPhone/iPad.

Can your interface do this?

Thanks to its 10-pin Zoom connector, the U-44 is compatible with all of our interchangeable input capsules (sold separately), representing a powerful field recording setup. Choose from six capsules—X/Y, Shock Mount X/Y, Mid-Side, Shotgun, Stereo Shotgun, and Dual XLR/TRS Combo Input—each with its own unique applications. Record the audience during your live performance, or connect our SSH-6 Stereo Shotgun for dialogue and sound design on your latest filmproject.

Six Interchangeable Capsules

Image Gallery

XYH-6 Mic Capsule

MSH-6 Mic Capsule

Pristine Recording and Playback

Inspired by our Zoom H-series recorders, the U-44 is equipped with high-performance, low-noise mic preamps that enable recording and playback at resolutions up to 24-bit/96 kHz. You can also use U-44 as a studio-quality headphone amp and listen to your favorite music in fullfidelity.

It’s All About Connections

The U-44 features a full array of inputs and outputs so you’ll always be prepared for any recording or live performance. Two combo inputs with independent gain knobs and multi-color level indicators provide flexibility for connecting mics, keyboards, and mixers. 48V phantom power can be supplied to inputs 1 and 2, and input 1 supports Hi-Z input for connecting passive guitars, basses, or other instruments. MIDI I/O jacks enable synchronization with devices like electronic keyboards, controllers, and synthesizer or samplermodules.

Multiple output options—including 1/4”, RCA, and S/PDIF—allow you to connect DJ mixers, speakers, and more. Monitoring your mixes is easy thanks to a dedicated headphone output with independent volume control. The direct monitor knob makes it possible to blend your headphone mix between the input and playback signals—perfect for live electronic music performance and DJ’ing.

Control Your Mix

With advanced monitoring options, the U-44 lets you dial in your ideal mix. Create a balanced headphone mix between your click track and main out signals during live performances. Or balance the cue and main out signals when you’re DJ’ing. The outputs of channels A and B can be muted, providing even more control. Plus, direct monitoring enables you to hear the live signal you’re recording without latency—simply adjust between the input and computer playback signals to create the perfectmix.

Standalone AD/DA Conversion

When you’re transferring audio, high-quality AD/DA conversion is critical. The U-44 functions in standalone mode as a high-quality mic preamp and AD/DA converter to ensure complete transparency when converting audio formats.
You can choose between a 44.1 or 48 kHz sampling rate forconversion.

Connect digital audio gear to analog amps andmixers
Create digital samples for yoursongsDigitize your analog records andtapes

Feature-Rich Mobile Recording

The U-44 is small enough to carry in your jacket pocket or backpack—without sacrificing features. Plus, all of the connectors and knobs are strategically positioned for fastaccess.

Create More with Your U-44

Ableton Live Lite

Bundled with Ableton Live Lite, the U-44 has everything the modern music creator needs. This integrated software lets you record tracks quickly and intuitively, enhancing them with studio-quality effects like EQ, compression,reverb, delay, chorus, filter, and more. Plus, Ableton’s performance workflows let you take your music to the stage where you can mix and recordlive.

Steinberg Cubasis LE

Cubasis LE, a 4-track audio recording/editing/mixing app for iPhone/iPad with an intuitive ‘touch’ user interface, is now available for the U-22.
U-22 users can download the Cubasis LE from App Store forfree.