If you’re recording with the Behringer UM2 and notice that you can only hear sound in one side of your headphones, don’t panic-it’s not necessarily a defect. This is a very common situation for beginners. Let’s break down the technical reason and show you how to fix it properly.
Why Does the UM2 Only Record in One Ear?
Many Behringer U-Phoria UM2 users report that while recording, the signal only appears in one ear (usually the left). This imbalance often leads people to believe the interface or Microphone cable is faulty.
However, this is actually normal behavior caused by how the UM2’s input channels are structured.
Technical Explanation: How Input Channels Work
The UM2 is a 2-input / 2-output audio interface, meaning it handles two independent channels:
If you connect a single microphone to Input 1, the interface sends audio only to the left channel, while the right channel remains empty.
This is how stereo interfaces are designed to work-it’s not a hardware issue. Other models like the Behringer UMC22, UMC202HD, or Focusrite Scarlett Solo function the same way.
How to Fix It: Convert Mono Input to Stereo Output
To make your mono microphone signal play through both ears, you need to configure your software or device correctly. Here are three effective methods:
1. Record in Mono Mode
In DAWs such as Audacity, Cubase, Reaper, or Studio One, select Mono Input (Input 1) instead of Stereo Input (Input 1 + 2).
When played back, the sound will automatically be balanced between both channels.
→ This is the simplest and most recommended method for UM2 users.
2. Duplicate and Pan Tracks Manually
If you’ve already recorded in stereo and only one side has audio:
3. Enable “Mono Mix” in Streaming Software
For livestreaming setups using OBS Studio or Voicemeeter:
Common Misunderstandings That Seem Like “Faults”
Besides the channel structure, a few other factors can cause sound in one ear only:
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Wrong cable type: Using mismatched TRS / TS / XLR cables may drop one channel.
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Using 4-pole TRRS headphones: These are for smartphones and may not align with the UM2’s stereo output.
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Driver issues: Install Behringer USB Driver or ASIO4ALL to ensure proper channel mapping.
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Incorrect input selection: Choosing “Input 2” while using “Input 1” will result in missing audio.
Always check your cables, input source, and software configuration before assuming hardware failure.
Optimizing Your Recording Setup with Behringer UM2
For best recording results:
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Use a condenser microphone with +48V phantom power for clear vocals
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Set gain between 12-2 o’clock to prevent distortion
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Watch the CLIP LED; if it turns red frequently, lower the gain
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Use studio monitoring headphones, not phone earbuds
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Set sample rate to 48kHz for smooth performance in livestreaming apps
Despite its compact size, the UM2 is powerful enough for podcasting, demo vocals, guitar recording, and livestreaming when configured properly.
When to Upgrade to UMC22 or UMC202HD
If your recording needs expand:
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UMC22: 2 separate inputs for dual-mic or vocal + instrument recording
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UMC202HD: Dual Midas preamps, wider dynamic range, and 24-bit/192kHz resolution - ideal for semi-pro studios
Both retain the same stereo input structure but deliver higher signal quality and flexibility.
Conclusion: Not a Fault - Just Stereo Channel Logic
The Behringer UM2 recording in only one ear is not a defect. It’s simply due to its independent Left/Right input design. When only one mic is connected, the signal is limited to the Left channel. This can be easily fixed through mono input configuration or software routing. Understanding this concept helps you make full use of the UM2 and builds a foundation for mastering audio routing in professional setups.
Trusted Source for Genuine Behringer Gear
If you’re looking for official Behringer interfaces like UM2, UMC22, or UMC202HD, along with Microphones, headphones, signal cables, and phantom power supplies, visit Hoàng Bảo Khoa - a leading Professional Audio distributor in Vietnam. Their technical team provides detailed setup guidance, configuration support, and certified after-sales service to help you achieve studio-grade results.