iRig HD 2 vs iRig Pre HD: Which One Do You Need?

If you are a musician, podcaster, or content creator who wants to record your sound on your iOS, Android, Mac, or PC device, you might be interested in getting a portable audio interface that lets you connect your microphone or instrument and headphones to your device.

The iRig HD 2 and the iRig Pre HD are both compact and easy-to-use audio interfaces that allow you to record your sound with your mobile device. The main differences are that the iRig HD 2 has a 1/4 inch input for instrument only, while the iRig Pre HD has an XLR input for microphone only. The iRig HD 2 is more suitable for guitar or bass players, while the iRig Pre HD is more suitable for singers or podcasters.

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

The Quick Answer

If you are looking for a simple and affordable interface that lets you connect your instrument to your mobile device or Mac/PC, and you don’t need an input for microphone or phantom power, we would recommend the iRig HD 2. It has a great sound quality, a switch for selecting between FX or THRU mode, and a 1/4 inch output for connecting to an amp or mixer. It is also powered by the connected device.

If you are looking for a versatile and professional interface that lets you connect your microphone to your mobile device or Mac/PC, and you need an input for phantom power or battery backup power , we would recommend the iRig Pre HD. It has a great sound quality, an XLR input for microphone only, and a phantom power switch for condenser microphones. It can also run on batteries or external power.

Common Features

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

• A 24-bit/96 kHz digital audio converter (DAC) for high-quality sound.
• A Lightning cable for connecting to iOS devices.
• A USB-C cable for connecting to Android devices.
• A USB-A cable for connecting to Mac or PC.
• A software bundle with AmpliTube and other apps.

Sound Quality

Both the iRig HD 2 and the iRig Pre HD offer high-quality sound with low noise and latency. They have a similar frequency response, dynamic range, and signal-to-noise ratio. However, there are some subtle differences in their sound quality that may affect your preference.

The iRig HD 2 has a slightly warmer and smoother sound, while the iRig Pre HD has a slightly brighter and clearer sound. The iRig HD 2 also has a bit more headroom and less distortion than the iRig Pre HD, especially when using high-gain settings. The iRig Pre HD, on the other hand, has a bit more detail and definition than the iRig HD 2, especially when using low-gain settings.

The sound quality of both devices also depends on the quality of your microphone or instrument, as well as your headphones or speakers. The iRig HD 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 Pre HD has a phantom power switch that lets you use condenser microphones that require external power.

Compatibility

Both the iRig HD 2 and the iRig Pre HD are compatible with most iOS devices, Android devices, Macs, and PCs. They work with any app that supports Core Audio on iOS or ASIO on Windows. They also come with a software bundle that includes AmpliTube, a guitar 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 HD 2 Compatibility

• The device works with any instrument that has a standard 1/4 inch jack, such as guitar or bass. However, it may not work well with some instruments that have active pickups or high output levels. You have to adjust the gain control knob accordingly.

• 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 work with some Android devices, even with an OTG cable. You have to check the compatibility list on the IK Multimedia website before buying.

iRig Pre HD Compatibility

• The device works with any microphone that has a standard XLR connector, such as dynamic or condenser microphones. However, it may not work well with some microphones that have low output levels or high impedance. You have to adjust the gain control knob accordingly.

• 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 work with some Android devices, even with an OTG cable. You have to check the compatibility list on the IK Multimedia website before buying.

Price Comparison

Both the iRig HD 2 and iRig Pre HD have a recommended retail price of $99.95, but you can find them online for around $80-$100.

Which One Would You Choose?

Bundled Software List

iRig HD 2 & iRig Pre HD

Both interfaces come with the same bundled software:

• AmpliTube 5 SE for Mac/PC: A powerful guitar and bass tone studio with over 400 gear models, a redesigned interface, a new mixer, and more.
• TONEX SE for Mac/PC: A standalone application and plug-in that lets you model the sound of any amp, cabinet, combo or pedal, and turn it into a plug-in to use on both Mac/PC or iPhone and iPad. It includes 200 Tone Models and access to ToneNET.
• AmpliTube for iOS: A mobile guitar and bass tone studio with over 160 gear models, a looper, a drum machine, and more.
• Cubasis LE for iOS: A mobile music production application by Steinberg Media Technologies that offers multi-track recording, editing, mixing, MIDI sequencing, and more.

The iRig Pre HD also comes with:

• Mic Room for Mac/PC and iOS: A versatile application that emulates the sound of iconic microphones and lets you record using the same style. It is compatible with other applications, so you can achieve classic microphone sounds with ease. It comes with 9 microphone models (one of which is available after registration). More mic models can be added through in-app purchase.