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Exploring Yamaha's URX Interfaces | 5 Questions with Sean Tokuyama

Exploring Yamaha's URX Interfaces | 5 Questions with Sean Tokuyama
Michael Molenda

Yamaha URX interfaces are mini marvels that are far more than “interfaces”—they are compact and comprehensive control centers for music production, podcasting, streaming and almost anything your creative mind can envision. The URX22 is a 4-in/2-out interface with a touch panel, physical controls, DSP effects and USB-C connectivity. The URX44 upgrades to a 6-in/4-out configuration, and the URX44V adds a HDMI-USB video interface. All units are available in black or white finishes.

With a little imagination, creators can pretend they’re streaming a live musical performance by Billy Strings or Maren Morris on The Howard Stern Show. A URX44 has the power to manage instrument and vocal inputs, as well as the video content and output to a laptop for streaming. Build the set and the talent will come. In addition, URX interfaces can help produce podcasts, music sessions, game audio (and streaming) and more.

“The URX series helps remove any impediments to music production and streaming,” says Yamaha Product Marketing Manager Sean Tokuyama, “and replaces the obstacles with inspiration.”

To prove that point, Tokuyama sat down with Guitar Center to answer five quick questions about the URX line.

These days, it appears audio interfaces don’t get to do just one job anymore, which used to be managing analog and digital signals back and forth from a computer. Now, they need to also offer full-on audio and video production tools.

Tokuyama: Absolutely. The URX line features robust, built-in DSP that has everything you need for mixing directly on the unit before going into another device, and it can also be integrated with software for mixing.

What can creators look for in a URX interface that might make their jobs easier?

Well, it’s really versatile and helpful. It won’t slow you down or force you to make creative compromises. For example, it comes with a bunch of Steinberg music production software and it also integrates seamlessly with Elgato and OBS Studio if you’re exploring livestreaming content. If you’re a beginning recording engineer, features such as Smart Gain and Clip Safe can ensure your lack of experience doesn’t result in distorted audio. We’ve done a lot of work to let creators devise workflows that are comfortable to them, make sense and deliver professional results.

Yamaha URX44 Front Panel Inputs

Pictured: Yamaha URX44 USB-C Audio interface Front Panel Inputs

Can you share a few more insights about the URX workflow?

Yes. We’re talking about truly modern workflow tools. URX interfaces give you hybrid audiovisual applications for streaming, flexible digital routing and built-in DSP for crafting polished sound without the need for another device.

Please explain how the USB-HDMI Capture function works in real-world terms.

If you need a way to record video on your computer, the built-in USB-HDMI interface on the video models is a perfect solution. The capture functionality allows for recording or streaming, while pass-through allows for video monitoring or also routing to another recording device.

Yamaha URX44 Interface Rear Panel Outputs

Pictured: Yamaha URX44 USB-C Audio Interface Rear Panel Outputs

There’s so much packed into an ultracompact design. What prompted you to include all of that facility?

Our approach stems from our commitment to serve both today’s and tomorrow’s users. We seek to deliver solutions that adapt seamlessly across diverse applications, and with the versatility and flexibility users may demand as their needs evolve.

Michael Molenda

Michael Molenda is a content strategist, editor and writer for Guitar Center, where he has worked since 2022. He is the longest-serving Editor in Chief of Guitar Player (1997-2018), and former Editorial Director of Bass Player, EQ, Keyboard, Electronic Musician, Gig and Modern Drummer. A guitarist, drummer, bassist and producer, Mike co-owned three pro recording studios in San Francisco, and performs with Surf Monster and The Trouble With Monkeys.

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