iRig 2 vs iRig Stream: More Than Just Streaming?

If you are a musician, DJ, or content creator who wants to stream your sound on your mobile device or Mac/PC, you might be interested in getting a portable device that lets you connect your audio sources and headphones or speakers to your device.

The iRig 2 and the iRig Stream are both compact and easy-to-use devices that allow you to stream your audio sources with your mobile device. The main differences are that the iRig 2 has a 1/4 inch input for electric guitar or dynamic microphone, while the iRig Stream has two RCA inputs for line-level sources. The iRig 2 is more versatile and compatible, while the iRig Stream is more professional and high-quality.

In this article, we will compare the features, sound quality, compatibility, and pros and cons of the iRig 2 and the iRig Stream, so you can decide which one is better for your streaming needs.

The Quick Answer

If you are looking for a versatile and compatible device that lets you stream your electric guitar or dynamic microphone with any device with a headphone jack, and you don’t need RCA inputs or loopback feature for your audio sources , we would recommend the iRig 2. It has a good sound quality, a 1/4 inch input for electric guitar or dynamic microphone, and a switch for selecting between FX or THRU mode. It is also powered by the connected device (no batteries or external power required).

If you are looking for a professional and high-quality device that lets you stream any line-level sources with any device with a USB port, and you need RCA inputs or loopback feature for your audio sources, we would recommend the iRig Stream. It has a great sound quality, two RCA inputs for line-level sources, and a loopback feature. It also has a LED indicator for showing the input level and clipping status.

Common Features

The iRig 2 and the iRig Stream have some common features, such as:

• A 1/8 inch output for headphones or speakers.
• A volume control knob for adjusting the output level.
• A software bundle with AmpliTube and other apps.

iRig 2 – Unique Features

• 1/4 inch input: The iRig 2 has a 1/4 inch input for electric guitar or dynamic microphone, which the iRig Stream does not have.

• FX/THRU switch: A switch for selecting between FX or THRU mode, which lets you use your amp or pedals with the interface.

• Analog input and output: Has an analog input and output for connecting to any device with a headphone jack, which the iRig Stream lacks.

iRig Stream – Unique Features

• Two RCA inputs: The iRig Stream has two RCA inputs for line-level sources such as mixers, keyboards, or turntables, which the iRig 2 does not have.

• Loopback feature: Has a loopback feature that lets you mix the input signal with the playback signal from your device, which the iRig 2 does not have.

• LED indicator: A LED indicator for showing the input level and clipping status, which the iRig 2 does not have.

• Digital input and output: Has a digital input and output for connecting to any device with a USB port, which delivers a cleaner and clearer signal than the iRig 2.

Sound Quality

Both the iRig 2 and the iRig Stream offer good sound quality with low noise and latency. They work well with headphones or speakers that have good sound reproduction. However, there are some noticeable differences in their sound quality that may affect your preference.

The iRig 2 has a more versatile and customizable sound, while the iRig Stream has a more professional and high-quality sound. The iRig 2 also has a lower output level than the iRig Stream, which may affect the volume and clarity of your sound. The iRig Stream, on the other hand, has a higher output level than the iRig 2, which may improve the volume and clarity of your sound.

The sound quality of both devices also depends on the quality of your audio sources’ type and sensitivity, as well as your device’s headphone jack or USB port. The iRig 2 has a switch for selecting between FX or THRU mode that lets you use your amp or pedals to shape your sound. The iRig Stream has a loopback feature that lets you mix your input signal with your playback signal from your device.

Compatibility

Both the iRig 2 and the iRig Stream are compatible with most audio sources that have a standard 1/4 inch jack or RCA connectors. They work with any headphones or speakers that have a standard 1/8 inch jack. They also work with any app that supports Core Audio on iOS or ASIO on Windows. They also come with a software bundle that includes AmpliTube, an amp and effects simulator app that lets you create various tones and presets.

However, there are some compatibility issues that you should be aware of before buying either device. Here are some of them:

iRig 2 Compatibility

• The device works with any electric guitar or dynamic microphone that has a standard 1/4 inch jack, but it may not work well with some microphones that have high output levels or low impedance. You have to adjust the gain control knob accordingly.
• The device works with any device that has a headphone jack, but it may not work well with some Android devices, even with an OTG cable. You have to check the compatibility list on the IK Multimedia website before buying.
• The device does not work with some older iOS devices that have a 30-pin connector, such as the iPhone 4s or earlier. You have to use an adapter or a different cable to connect to these devices.

iRig Stream Compatibility

• The device works with any line-level sources that have RCA connectors, but it may not work well with some sources that have low output levels or high impedance. You have to adjust the volume control knob accordingly.
• The device works with any device that has a USB port, but it may not work well with some Android devices, even with an OTG cable. You have to check the compatibility list on the IK Multimedia website before buying.
• The device does not work with some older iOS devices that have a 30-pin connector, such as the iPhone 4s or earlier. You have to use an adapter or a different cable to connect to these devices.
• The device does not come with a power supply, so you have to buy one separately if you want to use it with batteries.

Price Comparison

The iRig 2 is cheaper than the iRig Stream, as you might expect from its simpler design and features. The iRig 2 has a recommended retail price of $39.99, but you can find it online for around $30-$40.

The iRig Stream is more expensive than the iRig 2, as you might expect from its more professional design and features. The iRig Stream has a recommended retail price of $99.99, but you can find it online for around $80-$100.

If you are on a tight budget or just want a simple and easy-to-use device for your streaming needs, you might prefer the iRig 2. If you are willing to spend a bit more or want a more professional and high-quality device for your streaming needs, you might prefer the iRig Stream.

Which One Would You Choose?