The new digital effects processor and interface for guitarists/bassists, the iRig UA from IK Multimedia, is an external device that plugs into any Android 4.2 or later device whether it be a cell phone or tablet and works with the AmpliTube UA app. I was extremely pleased to know that IK Multimedia now offers their iRig technology for us Android users. I was given the opportunity to review this new device.
The iRig UA arrived neatly packed, looked great, and was extremely easy to install. Simply download the free (for now) AmpliTube UA app from the Google Play store onto your Android device and then plug it into the micro USB (power) input on the iRig. The app will automatically activate your device. Once ready, you can plug in your instrument in the 1/4″ input and your headphones into the 1/8” output and you’re ready to go.
Out of the box, the app comes with some great amps for free. I was able to fully customize my sound by choosing my amp, microphone, and pedals. Additionally, on the amp view you can customize the bass, treble, mid, gain, presence, reverb, and volume. In only a couple of minutes, I felt completely comfortable using the amps and changing out my pedals.
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After playing guitar for about 20 minutes, I decided to poke around some more on IK Multimedia’s website and discovered that I could purchase new amps and pedals. For around $7, I could purchase an Orange Tiny Terror amp. Incredibly it sounds just like the Orange! I was so impressed and thoroughly enjoyed being able to play full out with unlimited sound potential all on my tablet. There are several amps to choose from and I imagine that list will grow over time. I’m looking forward to exploring and playing more on the iRig and finding new add- ons.
One of the best features of the new iRig is IK Multimedia’s new technology dealing with latency issues which has been a problem with similar devices. I experienced ABSOLUTELY no delay whatsoever even though I have an older Android device due to the fact that all the processing is done within the iRig device.
Although the sound is incredible, with the tablet that I was using, I don’t think it would be ideal to record with the simple setup that I had. That’s not to say you couldn’t with a better Android device or some quality audio equipment. The company states that it can be used as a digital recording interface when connected to a Samsung Professional Audio compatible device or smartphone or tablet with Android 5.0, so it may work on those devices better than the older Android tablet that I was using. With this new iRig technology, I just may have to invest in some upgraded equipment.
For me, it’s better suited as a practice device that allows you to play full out with the sound you want without bothering people nearby. And it’s small and lightweight, making it great for portability. I imagine having a travel guitar with me and whenever I have down time I can pull out my phone, plug it into the iRig UA, and start jamming.
Overall I think this is a great device and is a must for all guitar and bass players. You’ll have hours of fun!
Retails for $99.99 and can be found at IK Multimedia’s site, your local music retailer, and online outlets effective today.
IK Multimedia iRig UA Universal Guitar Interface for Android Features:
Works on any Android device with host mode/USB OTG
Near-zero latency digital FX processing
Digital audio recording on Android 5.0 and Samsung Professional Audio Devices
32-bit digital signal processor
24-bit converter with 44.1/48KHz sample rate
High-definition, low-noise preamp
Includes AmpliTube UA
Analog aux input for play-along and practice
Headphone output and volume control
Multicolor LED
Ultra-compact and lightweight design
Micro-USB port
