Platane UP2 Finally Makes Its Official Debut

[jazylll]

This audio interface has already garnered significant attention and discussion even before its release due to its groundbreaking specs. After months of anticipation since its initial announcement in March, we can finally see it in person—let’s take a closer look.


Key Features of the UP2

2 microphone inputs, with dual USB interfaces supporting 32-bit/192kHz audio.

Analog 2-in/4-out, plus digital 2-in/2-out (to the secondary USB port).

Dedicated headphone amp with an ES9020Q DAC chip, ensuring independent analog signal paths for headphones.

Premium Component Selection
Preamp: PGA2500 + OPA1612 (top-tier combination)

ADC: AKM flagship AK5572EN (dual-channel conversion)

DAC: AKM flagship AK4493SEQ (dual-channel conversion)

Headphone Amp: ESS ES9020Q DAC + TPA6120 amplifier chip

Main Controller: RSIC V 648M (high-performance domestic MCU)

With this component lineup, the UP2 is undoubtedly a professional-grade recording device, pushing the limits of portable audio interfaces. Before the AKM factory fire, AKM’s ADCs and DACs were the go-to choice for pro audio gear. Now, the UP2 stands as one of the few products in its price range featuring the AK5572 + AK4493 combo, offering high dynamic range and ultra-low THD+N. Fans of AKM’s signature sound now have a new option.

Performance Highlights (Per Official Claims)

Preamp gain reaches an astonishing +85dB (vs. the typical +60dB in this class), thanks to the PGA2500’s 65dB + OPA1612’s 20dB boost.

2.5KΩ balanced input impedance—capable of driving virtually any microphone.

Line-out THD+D: -114dB

DAC dynamic range: 123.6dB (surpassing most competitors)

ADC dynamic range: 114dB, THD+N: -110dB

Lab-tested (via Audio Precision) results reportedly outperform RME, Focusrite, MOTU, and Apogee in multiple metrics.

Software & Driver Innovation
Platane emphasizes software excellence:

Windows: Custom Platane Mixer with full matrix routing (on par with RME’s TotalMix).

macOS: First domestic audio interface with a DEXT driver (no need to disable SIP).


Why drivers matter:

Hardware can be copied, but driver development requires elite programming skills—handling system kernels without crashes is no small feat. Platane’s achievement in launching self-developed Windows ASIO and macOS DEXT drivers within two years signals world-class technical prowess. In the audio world, Platane is akin to Moore Thread in GPUs: a rare domestic player mastering both hardware and software.

Design & Availability

Full aluminum alloy casing with anodized finish (reminiscent of Apple’s Mac mini in space gray).

Launch timeline: Small batches expected by mid-June, priced under ¥2000.

Given the success of its predecessor (UP1), the UP2 is poised to be a milestone for Chinese audio interfaces—potentially surpassing international brands in performance. Once market units arrive, real-world tests will confirm if it lives up to the hype.

[pekbro]

Wonder if this will be worth it to buy from the US what with all this tarriff business.

[kritikon]

That's under NZ$500, so it certainly sounds reasonable price. I don't see any kind of loopback control like the DAW/input knob that many interfaces have, so that's a rather big minus IMO. Usability is more important than infinitesimal specs. E.g. dynamic range higher by a few dB - almost irrelevant for most people's use. No input level knob . I assume stuff like that is via sw...quite a big no-no to me. Some will like that, but I don't want to have to diddle around in some app to control my interface. It looks nice though.

Big numbers, minimal hands-on uability.

And I know it's my own personal opinion, but I fail to see why so many interface manufacturers go for more outputs than inputs. I'd much rather have 4 in/2 out than 2 in/4 out. TBH it doesn't actually look that good a buy despite the fanfare about nerdy numbers...

[MFXxx]

Agreed on the input output, i get it, would like to see a multi input version. I like the look of the mixer interface. Must say have dacs covered independently, but this does seem robust. Need to look ay an RME equivalent tbh as trusted, but if the non US price holds vs currwnt echange rates and imports. Should sell well.