Lewitt Connect 2: Perfect USB Interface for Musicians

Introducing the Lewitt Connect 2, a groundbreaking USB audio interface from the Austrian brand that is revolutionizing home recording. Compact, affordable, and equipped with easy-to-use features and excellent companion software, the Connect 2 is designed to capture voices and instruments seamlessly, making it ideal for musicians and singers alike.

The Connect 2 features an XLR microphone input and a Hi-Z input for keyboards or guitars, offering essential tools for home recording and voiceovers, even on the go. Its intuitive touch-sensitive surface and silent controls ensure a user-friendly experience, free from annoying clicks. The main control is a large wheel surrounded by sensors to set input levels, gain, monitor output, headphone volume, and blend sound from the host computer with the inputs.

A standout feature of the Connect 2 is its silent MUTE button, which can mute everything or specific inputs/outputs. Additionally, a programmable function button allows for customizable actions like toggling preamp settings or accessing the Control Center software.

The interface is portable, roughly the size of a small notepad, and includes a USB cable that powers the device from a computer, phone, or tablet. On the rear, you’ll find inputs and outputs: a single XLR socket with a 48V Phantom Power switch for condenser mics, a Hi-Z 6.3mm jack for instruments, two mono 6.3mm jacks for speakers, and both 6.3mm and 3.5mm headphone jacks for monitoring. A USB Type-C port connects the Connect 2 to the host computer.

The Connect 2’s software is what truly sets it apart. The polished Connect software includes controls to ensure optimal results. The XLR microphone section features a gain knob, a low-cut filter, a 48V Phantom Power option, and Clipguard, a limiter that prevents audio clipping. Preamp settings include Clean, Warm, and Vivid EQ options, providing versatile sound quality.

Additional controls for each channel include Denoise, which samples room noise for a noise gate, and a Compressor, which balances quiet and loud sounds. The instrument section mirrors the mic settings but lacks Clipguard. Special effects can be added via plugins in your DAW.

Despite its professional sound quality, with sampling up to 96kHz, the Connect 2 is user-friendly. An Autogain function sets levels for both channels, and Auto setup guides you through Clipguard, Denoiser, Compressor, and preamp settings. Customizable LEDs indicate status, gain levels, and volume, with adjustable colors and brightness.

Zero-latency monitoring through headphones ensures accurate playback for singing along with pre-recorded material or overdubbing. The Loopback channel sends the computer signal back for independent audio processing by the Connect 2’s DSP, making it ideal for streaming and recording samples. The sound quality, with 72dB of gain and a low noise floor, is impeccable, handling even challenging microphones like the Shure SM7B.

In summary, the Lewitt Connect 2 is a user-friendly, high-quality audio interface perfect for recording voices and instruments. Its innovative features, excellent software, and exceptional sound quality make it a valuable tool for any musician or singer. Priced at $199 / £169 / €199, the Connect 2 includes Control Center software and licenses for Steinberg Cubase LE and Steinberg Cubasis LE, and is compatible with Mac, PC, and iOS.