Universal Audio Volt 876 24-Input/28-Output USB-2.0 Audio Interface

The Volt 876 is a high-channel-count, professional USB-2.0 audio interface from Universal Audio designed for serious studios, band tracking or hybrid production workflows. It offers robust I/O, premium analogue-stage circuitry (on the preamps and compressors), and deep integration with UA’s software ecosystem.

Key Features & Why They Matter

Analogue Input & Output Power

• 24 inputs and 28 outputs total — giving you significant flexibility for capturing full bands, multiple sources simultaneously (mics, instruments, line-outs).
• Eight front/back analog mic/line/Hi-Z inputs (with digitally controlled preamps).
• Eight analog line outputs and also multiple digital I/O (ADAT, S/PDIF) for expansion.

Premium Preamps & Onboard Compression

• Each mic input channel includes a “Vintage”-mode preamp emulation of UA’s classic 610 tube console design, giving you richer harmonic character.
• On-board 76 Compressor (inspired by the 1176) on every channel — presets for vocals, guitars, drums or “fast” mode to tighten dynamics at the front end. This means you can shape tone and control dynamics before hitting your DAW.

High-Quality Conversion & Modern Connectivity

• Conversion at 32-bit / 192 kHz, giving you pro-level sound quality with wide dynamic range and full-frequency fidelity.
• USB class-compliant (USB-2.0) and works with Mac, Windows, iPad/iPhone (via USB-C with appropriate adapter) — meaning flexible setups including mobile/compact rigs.
• ADAT I/O allows up to 16 additional channels of expansion, or linking multiple Volt 876 units for larger I/O arrays — ideal for tracking drums, ensembles, or building a scalable system.

Workflow Enhancements & Monitoring Features

• Built-in talkback mic hardware, two stereo headphone outputs (with independent controls) and monitoring control (alt outputs, dim/mute etc) make it studio-ready.
• The interface settings (gain, compressor state, vintage mode, etc) are digitally controlled, and you can recall complete front-panel setups via the UA software (UAD Console and/or the included DAW). This lets you switch between session setups quickly.

Software & Value Bundle

• The Volt 876 includes a premium software bundle via the UAD ecosystem: e.g., Teletronix LA-2A, UA 1176, Pultec EQ collection, PolyMAX Synth, Showtime ’64 Tube Amp, etc.
• Also integrated with UA’s LUNA DAW (if you choose to use it) for a cohesive hardware-software recording environment.

Ideal Use Case

This is an ideal interface for:

• Recording full bands: multiple mics (drums, amps, vocals) at once thanks to the many analog inputs and high-quality preamps.
• Project studios who want serious I/O and great analogue tone but in a manageable form factor.
• Hybrid setups: Use the Volt 876 as both tracking front end and preamp/AD-converter for external gear, thanks to the expansion and high-quality conversion.
• Users who value both tone (vintage emulation) and modern workflow (software recall, high resolution, mobile compatibility).

Things to Consider / Limitations

• While the Volt 876 offers plenty of I/O and high-end features, you’ll likely need a rack or desk space to accommodate it (it’s rack-ear included; not ultra-compact).
• It uses USB-2.0 class-compliant interface; for very large-scale latency-critical applications you may want to check system performance (though for most studios this will be more than sufficient).
• As with any interface with many inputs/outputs and high sample rates, you’ll want to ensure your computer/DAW can handle the bandwidth, especially if you link multiple units via ADAT.
• The analogue “Vintage” mode and compressor circuit is a feature you’ll appreciate if you use it — if you don’t intend to exploit it, you still get excellent conversion and I/O, but some of the unique value lies in those tone-shaping front end tools.

Summary

If you’re looking for a powerful audio interface that gives you studio-level I/O, exceptional analogue-inspired front end sound, and the flexibility and workflow tools to record, monitor and expand with ease, the Universal Audio Volt 876 is a compelling choice. It blends the best of classic studio tone (via the vintage preamps + compressor) with modern digital recording demands (32-bit/192 kHz conversion, recallable settings, expansion options). Whether you’re tracking a full band, building a serious home studio, or integrating into a hybrid production environment, this unit gives you professional-grade gear in a single, well thought-out package.