Sterling Audio Harmony H224 Review
USB Audio Interface
Highlighted Customer Reviews
Showing 1 to 20 of 56 Reviews
Owning multiple interfaces, for the $$$, this one is awesome
Sterling Audio Harmony H224 USB Audio Interface
Reviewed by Zach on Guitar Center
I own many audio interfaces, from RME RAYDAT, FIREFACE 800 & Babyface PRO, for my 'serious' use, to UGM192, UAC-2, US-366, for 'misc' use. I bought this one to setup a mini studio on the kitchen bar. It exceed my expectations. It has 2 sets of 1/4" line outs, set of midi i/o, x2 Hi-Z instrument inputs, 2 mic/line XLR/TRS combo inputs with a push button that switches between MIC and LINE input, 48v phantom power for your condenser and cloud/active DI boxes, a big phat monitor volume knob (push the knob to mute), HPF and PADs on the mic pres, button to check MONO on the mains. 32 block buffer size. The unit is built like a tank....very solid. Comes with a quality braided USB-C to Type-A cable. The converters & preamps are what they are at this price range; they are clean, that's it. (But, for this price you can't expect $800 /ch preamps - you're probably getting $40 preamps per channel.) If you need better pres for your $1,500 conderser, this has true line inputs for your expensive pre to bypass the interface pres! ;-) I would liked to have an option in the unit's mixer software to switch the ASIO buffer size, but that can be accomplished within the DAW options itself (smallest buffer is 32). If space is a factor, as you can see from the product pics, all of the controls are on the top of the unit so you can't put a e.g. DSI MOPHO on the top of it *lol* but I like having the monitor control knob at an ergonomic reach. There have been a few users on Youtube that said that there was latency from when you turn the volume knob to when you hear the volume change. That must have been fixed because I didn't experience a problem with anything. If you are new to this 'game of audio' and looking for your first interface, then this is it. Skip the FOCUSRITE - this has waaaay more options and expand-ability, and the price is right especially when you catch it during the SDOTD (I did). It would be a 10/10 if it had ADAT light-pipe or coaxial S/PDIF i/o, but I get it, that would up the price which is already rock-bottom with the SDOTD! Overall, I'm giving this interface a 9/10 in its class. enjoy :) ... More
I really like it...great sound and features.
Sterling Audio Harmony H224 USB Audio Interface
Reviewed by E on Guitar Center
Pros - Really clean preamps compared to other interfaces I've used. Nice headroom as well. The meters are great to have for checking gain, as the DAW doesn't always seem to register accurately on input. The midi input works great...using it with an old Alesis D4 drum module. The desktop design is well thought out as well. The ability to use a separate stereo send to outs 3/4 from the DAW is very cool. I use it to compare 2 sets of monitors. The biggest con is the lack of documentation. Just a bit more explanation about how routing works on the H224 would have saved me a bit of head scratching. I thought I had a defective unit at first when channels 3/4 weren't working. After doing some digging, I realized that the outputs on the H224 are software and not hardware driven...meaning it is not an A/B switch. It is designed to accept a separate software send...to which you can then select as your output. This means the signal must route through the computer and be sent to the H224 outputs...which are sending two separate line signals out to the speakers. Once you know this, it's no trouble. You just add an extra send on the Master Fader of your DAW. Before, I was using a hardware A/B switch to compare monitors. So, that's how I was expecting the H224 act. Once figured out, I was very impressed. The only downside, is that you can't do instant back and forth between the outputs (unless you add another A/B switch). You must mute outs 1/2, then switch to 3/4 and unmute them in order to hear those outputs. So, it's not as instant back and forth as I would like. But, it works. I got this on sale for around a hundred bucks. And for that money, it is more than worth the price. I was torn between the Volt 2, the Arturia, and this H224. But, with the sale, this was a no brainer. If you're looking for a clean and convenient interface with some nice added features, you won't go wrong with this one. ... More
Great Sound + Features!
Sterling Audio Harmony H224 USB Audio Interface
Reviewed by Mark on Guitar Center
Bought this product setting up a new home studio. Love the sound of the preamps with my mics and I really like the fact the PAD's are on the preamps. Easy to use, monitor signals, and set-up. Good quality feel to the product too. Diggin' my recordings so far in Logic Pro. Would recommend.
Versatility and excellent sound, combined with ease of use.
Sterling Audio Harmony H224 USB Audio Interface
Reviewed by Rob M. on Guitar Center
Being more on the creative side of music production than the technical, I like intuitive, plug-and-play gear that doesn't slow down the creative process. Am currently using Logic Pro on a MacBook, and finding that the Sterling Harmony H224 is a perfect compliment. First of all, I love the weight—a little heavier than you'd expect for its size—giving it a nice, solid feel under your hand. I also love the classic styling, complete with traditional LED metering for inputs and outputs. My previous interface was a Scarlett 2i2, and while I had no complaints—and the gain halo on the Scarlett knobs is cool—I hands-down prefer the Sterling's metering, which is much easier to fine-tune. Controls are simple—just two input knobs and a single output knob that adjusts whichever of the three output signals (1-2, 3-4, and headphones) you've selected. (That (3-4) set of balanced outs is one of several extras the H224 offers compared to the 2i2 and it definitely gives you more flexibility—to run a separate headphone line, or send to effects, etc.) As far as performance goes, the levels are strong and steady and the sound is beautifully clear and transparent. Each channel offers two very useful adjustments: a pad for extra loud sources, and a high-pass filter I use all the time for cutting down on rumble and room boominess. Probably my favorite difference from my previous interface, though, are the two instrument level ins on the front panel which automatically override the combo XLR / 1/4" ins in the rear. Being able to plug instruments in the front without having to unplug your mics from the back or reset input buttons is something I didn't realize I needed until I had it. Honestly, the H224 could cost more than it does and still be a terrific value. Overall, great sound, flexibility, and a plug-and-play design that keeps the focus on the creative process. ... More
Love it! You should buy it!
Sterling Audio Harmony H224 USB Audio Interface
Reviewed by Keithron, P on Guitar Center
I am a producer, singer, writer and I have a home studio. I also review products for my YouTube channel. I mix and master as well. I saw this in the store months back and got curious. I already have the Focusrite, which everyone suggested I should get and it didn't disappoint BUT... I was curious about the H224. After receiving it and playing with it a bit. I was confused by many of the reviews I had read and realized they just don't get it. This product does what it says it will do with a couple of surprises. Tech is only good if it makes your workflow easier and becomes unnoticeable. After only a couple of minutes The H224 disappeared into my work flow as if it had been there all along. The first thing was the connections. Being on the back cleared up my desk and allowed me to leave everything plugged in unlike the Focusrite I was using. Being able to monitor my main mix and send a separate mix to the vocalist was a dream. Having the ability connect to my Mackie Big Knob and go out to both of my studio monitor pairs makes mixing and mastering a dream. I can't wait to get a guitarist or bassist in here to plug directly in. I am going to be working on some vocal track soon so the pad and high pass will make things simple. I just think this product is definitely the one to get. When I did my unboxing video I was impressed and didn't fully understand the product but once I played with it. I can't wait to do my 30 day review video so that I can really discuss it. Great product! Plug and Play! I can't wait to play with the software in a full session. And that was a difference from my Focusrite. The fact that the software can remember your session. I can't wait to really see that in action. I say go for this, for the price and stay with it for the quality. ... More
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This Audio Interface Is Definitely Worth The Money!
Sterling Audio Harmony H224 USB Audio Interface
Reviewed by Shawn on Guitar Center
I previously had a Focusrite Forte that I've had for quite sometime finally give up the ghost (have other audio interfaces that are much newer, but the Forte was a perfect fit for gigging and need a decent audio out from my computer to a pa without noise interference), so I decided to check out Guitar Center's website to see what they had. I originally was going to go with one of those interfaces from Focusrite or Presonus, but I also needed a midi interface as well. I eventually came across the Sterling H224. What caught my eye was its form factor, then its price in comparison to the other companies I just mentioned. To be honest, I was skeptical…well..because of its price point and I didn't know much about the Sterling brand, so I did a little research to see if anyone is using the H224 and how it stood out in certain situations. Turns out a lot of people who bought these were satisfied and amazed with the quality and features that is packed into this unit for the price!!! I decided to grab a if used one to 1) test it out the sound quality of the interface while recording to a DAW on my laptop and 2) if it would work well with my iPad as an audio and midi interface as part of my keyboard rig to gig with. I'm definitely impressed with the build and sound quality and the features that are packed into the box to the point that I bought a second one brand new from Guitar Center to use for recording to my laptop possibly as a back up if needed. If something were to happen to either of these, I definitely would purchase another one…or two. ... More
Solid quality and impressive sound!
Sterling Audio Harmony H224 USB Audio Interface
Reviewed by Charles B. on Guitar Center
This is a great product, I bought this interface three months ago on the Winter Park location in Florida. I was looking to buy the Focusrite but it was not on stock, however, the sales person showed me this interface and the first thing I found was the solid construction of it. I use it on IOS and PC with no connectivity issues. It has a very good sound, I'm using it for recording MIDI instruments and for live situations. The latency is not noticeable when using 256 samples and a sample rate of 44100 or 48000. I'm able to layer a physically keyboard sound with my virtual instrument and the there is virtually no latency! It really works. ... More
Definitely an upgrade for me!
Sterling Audio Harmony H224 USB Audio Interface
Reviewed by Elvin M on Guitar Center
is just what I needed
High-Quality, Sophisticated Desktop Audio Interface
Sterling Audio Harmony H224 USB Audio Interface
Reviewed by Pharaoh the Producer on Guitar Center
The Harmony H224 is deceptively simple, yet a very sophisticated piece of audio technology which features a six-element LED system with input potentiometers and output encoders, in addition to support for remote control functionality from a Mac/PC with the included software. This is a phenomenal value in this price range for this product. It is helpful to read the manual before operating this device because there are nuances that are different from other audio interfaces on market. For instance, one reviewer mentioned using all four inputs at the same time. This is absolutely incorrect because this device only features two inputs, however the additional front two inputs are "plug and play" alternatives for the XLR/TRS connections on the back. This device uses class A preamps which is very important to achieve professional studio quality audio fidelity. I would highly recommend this for any recording artist, producer, podcaster, streamer, hobbyist, and enthusiast alike. Lastly, it also features high impedance headphones support which is very important for hi-fi audio listening with expensive headphones. This is the best deal on the market! Hands-down! ... More
Not bad!
Sterling Audio Harmony H224 USB Audio Interface
Reviewed by Phillip C on Guitar Center
I love the form function of this interface. I wanted one that allowed me to do all of my hookups in the back to keep everything clean. I can still use the front inputs and headphone jack if I wish, but for what I do, I don't see a need for it. I thought it was a plus that this unit has 4 outputs for two pairs of monitors. Now that I've played around with it, and also spoke to customer support, I'm not so sure why it was designed this way. I thought I would be able to run two pairs of monitors at the same time. According to Sterling Audio support, this is not the case. Only one at a time. Maybe that option would be good for someone, but not for me. Sound quality is really good, but playing around with my son's Presonus 24c, I think the Presonus is a few notches better in the sound department. Still a good unit, but next time, I would probably put my money somewhere else. ... More
Fantastic product
Sterling Audio Harmony H224 USB Audio Interface
Reviewed by Marek S. on Guitar Center
Harmony H224 has a great sound quality at such a reasonable price! I compared it to Motu M2/M4, Scarlet 2i2, and more expensive units like RME UFX and Metric Halo ULN-8. The shape of Harmony H224 resembles the Universal Audio Twin model that is much more expensive; however the H224 has a more friendly and accessible layout of buttons. The unit has fantastic 3D sound image with great depth, wonderful base and shiny high frequencies. Harmony H224 comes with Bitwig Studio 8-Track and some fantastic plug-ins from Slate Digital to try. Overall it is a fantastic deal and a complete package. I recommend Harmony H224 to those who are looking for a great portable audio interface for desktop recording. I believe it will find many new and satisfied users like me! ... More
My favorite interface yet
Sterling Audio Harmony H224 USB Audio Interface
Reviewed by Mark on Guitar Center
After too many interfaces that did not perform as advertised or did not last very long, at the 21 day mark with this interface I cannot be happier. As long as you are avoiding ground loops (which I was unaware of until recently) this interface provides very clear audio and very low latency. My guitar and bass sound excellent on this interface. My midi piano somehow sounds better than ever, low latency and clear sound. ( I am a piano player first). The microphone, well, no complaints. I do not use the microphone very often, however it does work as expected. I've owned several more expensive and less expensive interfaces, and this one outshines them all. ... More
A really great audio interface, best I've ever used.
Sterling Audio Harmony H224 USB Audio Interface
Reviewed by John on Guitar Center
I use this for product video production and the signal is clean with lots of flexibility. It offers more features than other audio interfaces that cost much more. After doing a lot of research and testing I ended up with Sterling products in my total audio chain, the Dynamite DM1 and a P20 Mic. They do a great job overall. The other aspect of this product is that the meters are right on the front which are easy to see when recording. And it cleaned up my desk over the Focusrite which has the XLR connections in front. By having them in the back like the H224, it gives you so much more room and good cable management. Love the big knob which makes it easy to mute and adjust volume. ... More
My first interface
Sterling Audio Harmony H224 USB Audio Interface
Reviewed by Nicholas on Guitar Center
This is my first interface, and I'm happy I chose this one. This one caught my eye because of the multiple I/Os, and the price. The unit feels robust, and has a nice little heft to it. The Asio drivers work great with Windows, and I like how the XLR inputs can be used with 1/4" too. I use the level monitors much more than I thought I would, and the included trial software got me going with my guitar. Since its usb powered I can use this with my laptop without needing to find an outlet. I later got a multifx pedal that has an interface, but I prefer this one because it sounds better, and is easier to use. ... More
Great Interface for value
Sterling Audio Harmony H224 USB Audio Interface
Reviewed by Pardeep on Guitar Center
I use this for recording vocals and tracking instruments in my home studio. I went from a Scarlett 2i2 to this and couldn't be happier with the transition. I was surprised to find the sound quality seemed to exceed the Scarlett in my comparisons. The tonality is a little brighter compared to the 2i2 and there is some functionality that is better than other interfaces. For example I do like the big dial and the toggle between the output monitoring. I do find the low pass filter included to be a little weird, but it's easy to ignore so I do :) Overall a great little interface! ... More
Best Audio Interface I have used!
Sterling Audio Harmony H224 USB Audio Interface
Reviewed by DJ Black Mastiff on Guitar Center
The audio quality is superb, the construction is solid and it does not slide around on my smooth desk. Its angled perfectly so that you can see the meters and easily change the volume. What blew me away was the quality audio that really drives my HD-650 so much better than the "red" brand one I had. Also the volume control is different and it really is high quality. With my "red" brand one, I hear static when I change the volume. This device is smooth and I hear no interference only the desired volume change. ... More
Just, wow
Sterling Audio Harmony H224 USB Audio Interface
Reviewed by Eric on Guitar Center
So to preface, I'm very new to recording but I wanted to noodle around on my pc and learn a new skill. This interface is so good looking on my desk and very easy to adjust everything on the fly. 1/4" connections in the front are nice with the XLR connections in the back, I prefer this layout over everything in front and cluttered looking. It's all aluminum and has some quality weight to it, huge control knob that is also AL or maybe stainless? Either way it is a very good looking unit that is has crystal clear audio ins and outs and I think it punches way above its price point! ... More
hard pass if windows 10
Sterling Audio Harmony H224 USB Audio Interface
Reviewed by George on Guitar Center
I'll be the first to say it isn't the first time windows 10 may have been the culprit for any sound related issues or otherwise. The bottom line was that I had great expectations for this interface and with the quirky volume issues as well as long customer service wait times, I'll have to pass. It installed okay, but wouldn't work with my daw of choice initially. Once I did get it going, after an hour wait on the phone, another hour with the cs rep, then an hour on my own afterwards... it started crackling. Crackling in the daw, youtube, whatever I listened to. Is it the interface? Well, my ancient interface works and this one ... crackles. Oh well. The software that comes with it seems lame as well. The cab sim was going to be a pain to get running and an 8 track only daw? No thanks. ... More
Great Interface!
Sterling Audio Harmony H224 USB Audio Interface
Reviewed by Ted B. on Guitar Center
I have been digging the Sterling Harmony 224 for about a month now. It looks and feels like the high-quality interface that it is. Its very solidly built with high quality hardware and easy to read metering. There are no drivers to install - my computer saw it as soon as I plugged it in. The class A mic pres sound great - way better than my 2i2. It has lots and inputs and outputs for a desktop interface and its completely bus powered. The price is right too!
Until I can afford an RME, this will be on the desk.
Sterling Audio Harmony H224 USB Audio Interface
Reviewed by Bryan on Guitar Center
I am a hobbyist.. Mostyly making music for myself and critical listening; This interface is perfect for. Plus, MIDI? Also, it almost looks like a UAD unit.. For the $, this is perfect.. If you need more than this, you'll know exactly what other product to buy... My next stop will be an RME or UAD unit with high end monitors.. quite a long time away
