IK Multimedia iRig Guitar Interface Comparison Review

The IK Multimedia iRig Guitar Interface is one of the best gadget you can ever find for your guitar, bass or to use on any other instruments. It lets you play your instrument through your iPhone and other mobile device with features that are very useful on-stage, as well great for practices. There are numerous models to choose from for IOS and Android devices to fit the specific needs of a musician.

What is iRig guitar interface

This combination of hardware and software device is a mobile virtual rig in the palm of your hands. The first ever AmpliTube iRig allowed guitarist and bass players to plug their instruments into their iPhone and iPad to play and record using a Free version of AmpliTube app, Apple’s GarageBand and others more. New generation of this device soon followed which now can be use for Android, Mac and PC.

Comaparison Between IRig 2 Vs IRig HD 2 And IRig UA

Every iRig device presents different features and device compatibility. It is best to know initially their difference before buying to get the proper iRig Guitar Interface right for you. Aside from the device, you’ll also be getting a free version of the AmpliTube for Mac/PC, AmpliTube for IOS and AmpliTube UA which provides a vast library of virtual stompbox effects, amplifiers and other gear that you can use as a part of your physical iRig device.


Affiliate Disclosure

constantinecruz.com is a participant of Amazon Service LLC Associates Program. It is an affiliate advertising program designed to provide websites a means to earn money by advertising products by linking to Amazon.com.

This post contains paid links: If visitors of the site uses the links to buy items. “As an Amazon Associates I earn from qualifying purchases” at no extra cost to you. Learn more


iRig 2 

iRig 2
  • Compatible with iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Mac
  • Input gain for easy signal control
  • Selectable dual-mode switch FX and THRU
  • Comes with AmpliTube for iOS (free download on the App Store)
  • 1/4” instrument input for guitar, bass and other instruments
  • 1/4” amplifier output for an external amplifier
  • 1/8” TRRS output for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Mac
  • 1/8” headphone output

This second generation iRig offers the same easy to use plug and play guitar interface technology players rave about, but with added functionality not found on its predecessor making it better sounding and universally compatible. The iRig 2 has a gain control located on the side were players can adjust the input for a precise control on the sound and an effects thru switch for wet or dry signal. This means while playing on an amplifier, you can also use your mobile device for the tuner app or recording.

For safety features, a convenient clip and velcro strip is available as needed to firmly attach the your iRig 2 on a microphone stand to avoid accidental fall of the device. Its ¼” inch output allows direct connection of your instrument, amplifier, or portable speaker without using additional adapter.


iRig HD 2

IK Multimedia IRig
  • Compatibility to iPhone, iPad Touch, iPad, Mac and PC
  • Preamp input gain control
  • Switchable output FX and Thru
  • Comes with AmpliTube 4 for Mac/PC
  • Comes with AmpliTube for iOS (free download on the App Store)
  • 96kHz sampling rate
  • High-quality 24-bit A/D conversion
  • Detachable cables for Lightning and USB included

Play and record in a higher level for iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Mac and PC anytime anywhere with the awesome iRig HD 2. Unlike the iRig 2, it comes fully loaded with the full version of AmpliTube 4 so you can capture a far range of sounds with much higher resolution noiseless guitar signal in studio quality recording 96Khz sample rate 24bit analog to digital conversion rate.

Another to look forward on HD model is the Digital Lightning USB port to plug into IOS instead of a 1/8″ Headphone-mic jack. Still present on the device is the clip and velcro strip for attachment on a microphone stand for safety. 1/8” inch out jack is now with volume control aside from the preamp gain control to go along with the thru FX for the type of signal adding even more superior tone quality and control over the sound. Two 1/4” inch output jack can be found to connect the guitar or bass and the other output jack to the amplifier sending out the sound to the real world.


iRig UA

iRig UA
  • Supports Android 4.2 or higher and host mode/USB OTG
  • Works on Mac or PC via optional USB to Micro-USB cable
  • Registration unlocks AmpliTube Metal, 25 Gear Credits for AmpliTube Custom Shop and T-RackS Classic for Mac/PC
  • Includes AmpliTube UA
  • Near-zero latency digital FX processing
  • 24-bit converter, 44.1kHz sample rate
  • High-definition, low-noise preamp

Something exclusive for all Android users running on 4.2 or higher version of Android is the iRig UA digital effects processor and audio interface with zero latency. It supports USB OTG mode which the iRig 2 lacks that can only run on IOS. Set-up is easy, just plug it into the android device through USB port. Your guitar or bass connects using the ¼” inch output jack, then speakers by the 1/8” inch headphone jack and its ready to play.

Coming with the iRig UA is the special Amplitube UA that has nine stompbox effects, five amplifiers, five cabinets and two microphones that lets you create a rig set-up with three stompbox effects place before or after the amplifier, a cabinet and microphone emulating any guitar tones for the most demanding musicians out there. For effortless usage, the preset system comes handy in efficiently managing your sounds, and to keep your instrument in perfect pitch, a built-in chromatic tuner is available to use.

Related Topic: