Zoom U-44 Portable 4x4 USB Handy Audio/MIDI Interface
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 audio anywhere.
The U-44 offers the same high-quality, low-noise mic preamps as our acclaimed H5 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, and performance.
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 record anywhere.
* Requires 2 AA batteries or an optional AC adapter for power, plus an Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit or Lightning-to-USB Camera Adapter for connection to iPhone/iPad.
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 film project.
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 full fidelity.
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 sampler modules.
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.
Specifications
Form Factor | Desktop |
Display | None |
Channels of I/O |
Analog: 2 Inputs / 4 Outputs Digital: 2 Inputs / 0 Outputs |
Maximum Sampling Rate | 48 kHz / 24-Bit |
Number of Microphone Preamps | 2 Preamps |
Input Level Adjustment | 2 x Knob |
Expansion Slots | None |
Signal Processing
Pad | None |
Gain/Trim Range |
Inputs: 0 to 43 dB |
High-Pass Filter | None |
Solo/Mute | Mute per Master |
Connectivity
Analog Audio I/O |
1 x Combo XLR-1/4" TRS Balanced/Unbalanced Mic/Line/Hi-Z Input 1 x Combo XLR-1/4" TRS Balanced/Unbalanced Mic/Line Input 2 x 1/4" TRS Balanced Monitor Output 2 x Stereo RCA Coaxial Unbalanced Line Output 1 x 1/4" TRS Unbalanced Headphone Output |
Phantom Power | 48 V, Selectable On/Off (Applied to All Inputs) |
Digital Audio I/O |
1 x RCA Coaxial S/PDIF Input 1 x RCA Coaxial S/PDIF Output 1 x TOSLINK Optical S/PDIF Input 1 x XLR 3-Pin S/PDIF Output |
Host Connection / USB | 1 x USB-B (Class-Compliant) |
Host Connection Protocol | USB 2.0 |
USB (Non-Host) | 1 x Micro-USB (Power Input) |
Sync I/O | None |
Network I/O | None |
MIDI I/O |
1 x DIN 5-Pin Input 1 x DIN 5-Pin Output |
Other I/O | 1 x Proprietary/Zoom 10-Pin Mic Module Input |
Wireless Connectivity | None |
Performance
Frequency Response |
System: 20 Hz to 20 kHz ±1.5 dB (at 44.1 kHz) 20 Hz to 40 kHz ±2 dB (at 96 kHz) |
Maximum Input Level |
Line Inputs: +20.7 dBu Mic Inputs: +2.7 dBu |
Maximum Output Level |
Monitor Outputs: +10 dBu at 0 dBFS Line Outputs: +8 dBu at 0 dBFS Headphone Outputs: +10 dBu at 0 dBFS |
Headphone Output Power | 30 mW per Channel into 32 Ohms |
Impedance |
Mic Inputs: 2.6 Kilohms Hi-Z Inputs: 1.1 Megohms Monitor Outputs: 330 Ohms Line Outputs: 1 Kilohm Headphone Outputs: 33 Ohms |
EIN |
Inputs: -119.5 dBA (150-Ohm Source) |
Digital Audio
Sample Rates | 44.1 / 48 / 88.2 / 96 kHz |
Sample Rate Conversion | None |
Bit Depths | 24-Bit |
Latency | Zero-Latency Direct Monitoring |
Sync Sources | Internal, S/PDIF |
Audio Storage & Playback
Memory Card Slot | None |
Compatibility
OS Compatibility | macOS 10.9.5 or Later Windows 7 or Later iOS 7.1 or Later *As of November, 2021: Check with manufacturer for the most up-to-date compatibility |
Included Software | Ableton Live Lite |
Compatible Software (Not Included) | Any Core Audio (Mac) Compliant Software |
Supported Drivers/API & Plug-Ins | macOS Class-Compliant (No Driver Needed) Windows Driver Downloadable from Manufacturer |
Processor Requirement | Intel Core i3 |
Mobile Device Compatibility | iPhone iPad |
Required Hardware | Available USB 2.0 Port, USB 3.0 / 3.1/3.2 Gen 1 Port USB Cable (Included) |
Internet Connection | Required for Registration, Software/Driver Download |
Power
Power Requirements | AC/DC Power Adapter (Not Included), Battery, or USB Bus Power |
AC/DC Power Adapter | 5 VDC (Not Included) |
Power Consumption | 5 W (Maximum) |
Battery Type | 2 x AA |
Approximate Battery Life | 4 Hours (Phantom Off) |
Physical
Dimensions | 7.87 x 3.63 x 1.68" / 19.98 x 9.23 x 4.27 cm |
Weight | 10.9 oz / 310.0 g |
Packaging Info
Package Weight | 1.4 lb |
Box Dimensions (LxWxH) | 9.291 x 6.693 x 2.362" |
Dispatch lead time - 3 days unless mentioned in the listing specifically.
Estimated delivery time frame - 5-10 business days unless mentioned in the listing specifically.
1. Return Period: Customers have 14 days from the date of delivery to initiate a return for a change of mind. For products received in a non-functional state (Dead on Arrival - DOA), customers must inform us within 48 hours of delivery.
2. Eligibility for Returns: We accept returns for all products, except those explicitly mentioned as non-returnable in the product listing.
3. Return Shipping Costs: For change-of-mind returns, customers are responsible for covering the return shipping costs.
4. Restocking Fee: Change-of-mind returns are subject to a 10% restocking fee, which may vary based on the condition of the returned product.
5. Conditions for Accepting Returns: Items must be in their original, unused condition, with all tags attached, and returned in their original packaging.
6. Exchanges and Store Credit: Customers have the option to choose between exchanges and store credit as an alternative to a refund.
7. Return Initiation: Customers can initiate a return through our live chat, via email, or by using our online form.
8. Refund Processing: Once we receive the returned product, we will promptly inspect and process the refund within 48 hours. However, the processing time may vary depending on the condition of the returned product.
9. International Returns: Our return and refund policies apply equally to international customers.
10. Refusal of Returns: We reserve the right to refuse a return or refund if the product is found to have physical, water, or electrical damages, or not working due to improper usage.
1. Warranty Coverage: All brand-new products come with a 12-month warranty, and refurbished products are covered by a 6-month warranty.
2. Warranty Claim Conditions: Customers must present proof of purchase to validate warranty claims.
3. Warranty Void: The warranty will be void if the product shows signs of physical, water, or electrical damage.
4. Warranty Fulfillment: In case of any issues during the warranty period, we follow these steps: a. Troubleshooting: Customers experiencing issues with the product must provide pictures and videos of the issue as requested and follow our troubleshooting steps to attempt to resolve the problem before initiating the warranty claim process. b. Repair: We first attempt to repair the product to address the issue. c. Replacement: If the product is irreparable, we offer a replacement of the same model or an equivalent product. d. Refund: If neither repair nor replacement is feasible, we proceed to provide a refund.
5. Warranty Claim Process: Customers can initiate a warranty claim through live chat, via email, or by using our online form.
6. Warranty Resolution Time: Upon receiving the warranty claim, we will promptly inspect and resolve the issue within 2 to 5 days, depending on the severity of the problem.
Estimated Delivery Time Frame: 5-10 business days