Onyx Artist 1X2 USB Audio Interface - Compact High-Res Recorder

In this review the Onyx Artist 1x2 is presented as a compact, no-frills USB audio interface aimed at singer-songwriters, podcasters and mobile recordists who need solid sound and simple operation. The single biggest reason to buy is its combination of a boutique-quality Onyx mic preamp and 24-bit/192kHz converters in a bus-powered, Built-Like-A-Tank chassis, which delivers clean, low-noise recordings without a bulky desktop setup.

Key Features

• High-resolution converters: 24-bit/192kHz recording provides clear detail and headroom for vocals and acoustic instruments when tracking or mixing.
• Onyx mic preamp with 48v: A boutique-quality mic preamp and +48v phantom power let users run studio condenser mics with low noise and solid dynamic range.
• Versatile inputs: The single XLR mic input plus a 1/4 in instrument input with Hi-Z switch makes it simple to record guitar, bass, keyboards or a mic quickly.
• Zero-latency monitoring: Direct monitoring and dedicated outputs allow real-time tracking through headphones and studio monitors without audible delay.
• Bus-powered portability: USB 2.0 bus powering and rugged construction make it reliable for mobile sessions and travel without a separate power adapter.

Who It's For

The Onyx Artist 1x2 is best for solo creators who need a durable, easy-to-use interface that sounds better than typical entry-level boxes; singer-songwriters, content creators and keyboard players will appreciate the clean preamp and high-resolution converters. Its simplicity also suits beginners who want a straightforward setup without overwhelming routing or many knobs.

Those who need multi-track recording or more simultaneous inputs should look elsewhere; producers or bands requiring four or more channels, or specialized I/O like ADAT expansion, will find this unit too limited in channel count.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent sound quality and low noise from the Onyx mic preamp and 24-bit/192kHz converters.
• Solid build quality and bus-powered portability make it reliable for mobile use.
• Simple front-panel controls and zero-latency monitoring for a quick tracking workflow.

Cons

• Only a single mic/instrument input limits use for multi-mic or multi-instrument sessions.
• Some users report mixed compatibility experiences depending on their system and drivers.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Onyx Artist 1x2 is a compact, rugged and sonically capable interface for solo musicians and creators who value clean preamp sound and simple, portable operation. It represents very good value for anyone who does not need multiple simultaneous inputs and wants a reliable, easy-to-use front end for tracking and streaming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use studio condenser mics?
Yes, the unit provides +48v phantom power and an Onyx mic preamp suitable for condenser microphones.

Does it need a separate power supply?
No, the interface is bus-powered over USB 2.0 and does not require an external power adapter for normal operation.

Is latency a problem when recording?
No, the Onyx Artist has zero-latency direct monitoring and USB 2.0 connectivity for low-latency performance, though overall latency can also depend on the host computer and software.