Zoom AMS-22 USB-C Audio Interface

The Zoom AMS-22 is a compact USB-C audio interface for recording a microphone, instrument, or external stereo source with a computer, smartphone, or tablet. It provides one MIC/GUITAR combo input and a separate 3.5mm stereo line input in a small desktop-friendly format. This makes it a practical connection point for solo recording, podcasting, voice capture, and simple livestream audio setups.

The MIC/GUITAR input accepts XLR microphones as well as balanced or unbalanced 1/4-inch phone plugs. Its adjustable preamp gain and switchable Hi-Z operation support common vocal-mic and direct-instrument applications, while +48V phantom power accommodates compatible condenser microphones. The stereo LINE IN is useful for bringing in playback or another line-level source through a 3.5mm stereo connection.

For monitoring, the AMS-22 includes a front-panel 3.5mm headphone output and a left/right pair of impedance-balanced TRS outputs for powered speakers or other external monitoring equipment. A single output control adjusts both the headphone and main output levels. The Direct Monitor switch lets users hear the MIC/GUITAR input before it passes through the computer, helping avoid software-monitoring latency.

The onboard Loopback switch mixes audio played by the connected computer with sound entering through the MIC/GUITAR input and sends that mix back to the computer. This supports straightforward streaming workflows that need voice or instrument audio alongside computer playback. When loopback is active, software monitoring should be disabled to prevent a feedback loop.

With USB 2.0 Audio Class 2.0 operation, 24-bit audio, and sample rates up to 96 kHz, the AMS-22 fits easily into a compact personal recording system. It can run from USB bus power when connected to a computer, while smartphone and tablet use requires external power through its dedicated DC 5V USB-C port. The included USB-C cable makes it ready to connect to a compatible host device, with additional adapters or cables needed as required by the device connection.

Key Features

• Combo Mic/Guitar Input: Connect an XLR microphone or a 1/4-inch instrument or line-level source through one input.
• Stereo Line Input: Add a tablet, music player, or other stereo source through the 3.5mm input.
• Switchable Hi-Z: Optimizes the combo input for direct connection of a guitar or similar instrument.
• Direct Monitoring: Hear the MIC/GUITAR input before computer processing for latency-free input monitoring.
• Loopback Function: Returns a mix of computer playback and MIC/GUITAR input to the connected computer.
• USB-C Audio Connection: Provides USB 2.0, 24-bit audio interfacing with bus-power support for computer use.

Design & Installation

The AMS-22 uses a compact control layout with an input gain knob, output level knob, input-status indicator, phantom-power switch, Direct Monitor switch, and Loopback switch. Its 68.0 x 57.7 x 46.0 mm enclosure is designed to occupy minimal desk or mobile-recording space, and the unit weighs 85 g. Zoom does not specify the enclosure material in its published product specifications.

Connect microphones, instruments, or line-level sources before selecting the AMS-22 as the input and output device in recording or streaming software. Use powered speakers with the rear TRS outputs or headphones with the front 3.5mm jack, and begin with the output level turned down before connecting monitoring equipment. For computer operation, connect the USB-C audio port directly to a USB port using a data-capable cable; smartphone and tablet operation requires external power at the separate DC 5V USB-C port.