CAD Audio CX2 Connect II 2x2 USB Audio Interface with Dual Mic Preamps

CAD Audio CX2 Connect II 2x2 USB Audio Interface

The CAD Audio CX2 Connect II USB Audio Interface is a compact 2-input, 2-output recording device designed for musicians, podcasters, and content creators. Featuring dual microphone preamps, 24-bit/96 kHz audio conversion, and switchable +48V phantom power, it supports recording microphones, instruments, and line-level sources directly to a computer through a USB-C connection.

Designed for home recording studios, mobile production setups, podcasting, and music creation, the CX2 provides flexible connectivity in a portable desktop format. Two combination XLR and 1/4" inputs allow users to record two microphones simultaneously or capture vocals and instruments together. Independent gain controls help optimize recording levels, while selectable instrument and line input modes accommodate different signal sources. A dedicated mono/stereo switch provides additional recording flexibility for interviews, vocal performances, and stereo instrument tracking. Whether recording a singer-songwriter performance or producing a two-person podcast, this 2-channel USB recording interface provides the essential connections for capturing and monitoring audio.

The CX2 combines USB 2.0 Type-C connectivity with a rugged all-metal enclosure designed for desktop and portable recording applications. Its USB bus-powered operation eliminates the need for a separate power adapter, while dedicated headphone and stereo monitor outputs provide convenient listening options. CAD Audio specifies a 118 dB A-weighted dynamic range, 50 dB gain range, and compatibility with Windows and Macintosh recording systems. A Kensington security slot provides an additional option for securing the interface in shared workspaces and production environments.

Dual Microphone Preamps and Flexible Recording Inputs

The CAD Audio CX2 features two independent microphone preamps with combination XLR and 1/4" input connectors. Each channel accommodates microphones, instruments, and line-level audio sources, providing flexibility for different recording arrangements.

Individual gain controls allow users to adjust each input independently. Dedicated instrument/line switches optimize the input configuration when connecting guitars, basses, keyboards, synthesizers, and other compatible audio equipment through the 1/4" connections.

For condenser microphones requiring external power, the CX2 includes switchable +48V phantom power. A dedicated indicator displays the phantom power status, while individual signal and clipping indicators help users identify incoming audio activity and potential overload conditions.

24-Bit/96 kHz High-Resolution USB Recording

The CX2 supports digital audio recording at resolutions up to 24-bit/96 kHz, allowing users to capture detailed audio for music production, voice recording, podcasting, and other computer-based recording applications.

CAD Audio specifies a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz and an A-weighted dynamic range of 118 dB. The interface also provides an equivalent input noise specification of -110 dBu A-weighted and a 50 dB gain adjustment range.

USB 2.0 Type-C connectivity provides communication with compatible Windows and Macintosh computers. Because the interface receives operating power through USB, users can build portable recording setups without requiring a separate external power supply.

Mono and Stereo Recording Modes

A dedicated mono/stereo switch allows users to select how the two input signals are routed during recording. Mono mode combines the two input channels into a shared signal for both left and right recording channels, making it useful for podcast interviews and other applications requiring centered audio.

Stereo mode assigns input channel 1 to the left recording channel and input channel 2 to the right recording channel. This configuration supports stereo recording arrangements and provides independent channel placement for instruments and other audio sources.

These routing options allow users to adapt the interface to different recording situations without changing their physical input connections.

Independent Headphone and Studio Monitor Control

The CX2 provides a dedicated 1/4" stereo headphone output for monitoring audio during recording and playback. An independent headphone volume control allows users to adjust their listening level without changing the main monitor output setting.

Two rear-panel 1/4" line outputs connect to compatible powered studio monitors or other line-level audio equipment. These outputs accommodate balanced TRS and unbalanced TS connections, providing flexibility when integrating the interface with existing monitoring systems.

A separate output-level control adjusts the signal delivered through the main line outputs, allowing convenient monitoring adjustments directly from the interface.

Portable All-Metal Construction

The CX2 uses a compact metal enclosure designed to accommodate desktop recording setups and transportation between recording locations. Its physical controls provide direct access to recording levels, monitor output adjustments, and input configuration.

The interface measures approximately 7.5 x 6 x 2.1" and weighs 1.1 lb, making it practical for small workspaces and mobile production kits. A Kensington security slot allows users to attach a compatible security lock when additional physical protection is required.

Key Features

• 2x2 USB Audio Interface: Provides two recording inputs and two audio output channels for computer-based recording and playback.
• Dual Microphone Preamps: Two combination XLR and 1/4" connectors accommodate microphones, instruments, and line-level sources.
• 24-Bit/96 kHz Audio Conversion: Supports high-resolution digital recording for music production, podcasting, and voice applications.
• Switchable +48V Phantom Power: Supplies power to compatible condenser microphones through the XLR inputs.
• Independent Input Controls: Individual gain adjustments and instrument/line switches provide flexible signal management.
• Selectable Mono/Stereo Operation: Combines input signals into both recording channels or separates them into left and right channels.
• Dedicated Monitoring Connections: Includes a stereo headphone output and two 1/4" line outputs with independent level controls.
• USB-C Bus Power and Metal Housing: Combines computer-powered operation with durable construction for desktop and mobile recording.

Technical Specifications

• Manufacturer: CAD Audio
• Model: CX2 Connect II
• Manufacturer Part Number: AMS-CX2
• Product Type: USB Audio Interface
• Interface Configuration: 2 Inputs / 2 Outputs
• Microphone Preamps: 2
• Analog Audio Inputs: 2 x XLR/1/4" Combination Connectors
• Input Signal Types: Microphone, Line, Instrument
• 1/4" Input Compatibility: Balanced TRS or Unbalanced TS
• Instrument/Line Selection: Independent Switch per Channel
• Input Gain Controls: 2 Independent Controls
• Gain Range: 50 dB
• Phantom Power: +48V, Switchable
• Recording Resolution: 24-Bit
• Maximum Sample Rate: 96 kHz
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
• Dynamic Range: 118 dB, A-Weighted
• Equivalent Input Noise (EIN): -110 dBu, A-Weighted
• Maximum Microphone Input Level: +8 dBu
• Maximum Instrument Input Level: +11 dBu
• Maximum Line Input Level: +19 dBu
• Microphone Input Impedance: 3 Kilohms
• Instrument Input Impedance: 1 Megohm
• Line Input Impedance: 20 Kilohms
• Analog Line Outputs: 2 x 1/4" Left/Right
• Line Output Connector Compatibility: Balanced TRS or Unbalanced TS
• Headphone Output: 1 x 1/4" Stereo TRS
• Headphone Volume Control: Dedicated Rotary Control
• Main Output Volume Control: Dedicated Rotary Control
• Recording Channel Modes: Mono / Stereo
• Mono Mode: Combines Both Inputs into Left and Right Recording Channels
• Stereo Mode: Assigns Input 1 to Left and Input 2 to Right
• Signal Indicators: Individual Signal and Clip Indicators per Channel
• Power Indicator: LED
• Phantom Power Indicator: LED
• Computer Connection: USB Type-C
• USB Protocol: USB 2.0
• Power Source: USB Bus Power
• External Power Adapter Required: No
• Computer Compatibility: Windows and Macintosh
• Recording Software Compatibility: Compatible Computer-Based Recording Software
• Enclosure Construction: All-Metal
• Security Connection: Kensington Security Slot
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 7.5 x 6 x 2.1"
• Weight: 1.1 lb

What's in the Box

• CAD Audio CX2 Connect II 2x2 USB Audio Interface
• USB Type-C to USB Type-A Cable