The Best USB Audio Interfaces
So you've finally gotten to the point where recording through your computer's built-in mic simply isn't cutting it. Maybe you're live streaming, recording music, making Youtube videos, or doing something experimental. For that, you'll need a USB audio interface, which allows you to send raw audio directly through the interface, which can process and relay that raw data cleanly. To help minimize the arduous task of researching these units one by one, we went through and did our own sleuthing.
What to Look For
We take our audio interfaces seriously, so we wanted to find the absolute best options on the market. We searched for interfaces that offered high-fidelity sound, static-free preamps, high-quality hardware, smooth knobs, and intuitive designs. Our favorite is the Scarlett 2i2 from Focusrite. Its relatively affordable price belies the professional design. But for those that just need a quick-and-easy input device, you can score Behringer’s U-Control UCA202 for an astonishingly low price. There’s a lot to discuss, so let’s dive in to the reviews.
Focusrite 3rd Gen Scarlett 2i2
For amateurs and audiophiles alike
When you listen to a piece of recorded media, how often do you wonder about how it was made? For most people, the answer is not often. If you’re somebody who makes these recordings, though, perhaps you’re more likely to be interested in the technical elements that go into a sound recording’s production. For that reason, we think it’s important (and just plain interesting) to note that Focusrite’s Scarlett interfaces are likely the most frequently used interface in every relevant sector, like music, podcasting, streaming, and all the rest. Why? Well, its mic preamps complement its sleek, compact aesthetic, culminating in a sound that’s as crisp and clean as anything else you’re bound to find on the market. Furthermore, it’s probably not as expensive as it should be. In plain words: it’s a fantastic piece of equipment sold at a great price.
Pros:
- The switchable “air mode” gives you a brighter, more trebly sound that’s hard to achieve with a run-of-the-mill interface.
- The versatility of this option makes it ideal for almost any application that would call for an audio interface.
Cons:
- The software doesn’t quite match the quality of the interface itself, as you may have to update the drivers or firmware.
M-Audio M-Track Solo USB Audio Interface
Bang for your buck
There are plenty of folks out there who want to buy a good interface without having to go bankrupt. Though it’s not exactly peanuts, the cost of the M-Audio M-Track Solo is quite reasonable for those willing to make a meager investment for a high-quality interface. Comparable to its costlier counterparts, this 2-channel, 48 kHz unit touts one XLR mic input with a standard 1/4-inch line input. This one is compatible across platforms, including the obvious ones (Windows and OS X) but also other devices, like your iPad.
Pros:
- We like that it’s easy to use, reliable, and fairly streamlined in its design.
- We appreciate that it can be rack-mounted for extra versatility.
- The high-quality Crystal preamp supports phantom power, packing a serious sonic punch in one small package.
Cons:
- This small model doesn’t have the most robust shielding, so you have to keep your wireless devices away from it to avoid picking up interference.
Behringer U-Control UCA202
Low price, high value
Some folks aren’t looking to capture a choir of angels or sweet summer birdsong; for some, they just need something that just gets the job done. Enter the Behringer U-Control, a marvelously affordable piece of engineering that’ll improve your recordings’ sound quality without breaking the bank. It’s a no frills-option for the no-nonsense consumer. It has all you’ll need for a minimal setup: two analog inputs and outputs, a headphone jack with a dedicated volume knob, and an optical output that lets you convert your signal from analog to digital. This compact little beast is USB-operated (obviously) and doesn’t need any drivers installed before using it. Just connect it to your computer, plug in your input source, and start recording.
Pros:
- The cherry on top of this deal is that Behringer includes free software in this package, so you’ll be all set to get started in Audacity and Kristal out of the box.
- This pick is portable enough to take with you on trips when inspiration strikes on the go.
Cons:
- This unit only has RCA inputs, which isn’t convenient for most professional musicians.
Behringer U-Phoria UMC 404 HD
Plug in the whole band
Perhaps you’re a renaissance man or woman — a part-time streamer, amateur musician, and voiceover artist all at once. It makes sense, then, to find yourself an interface that can meet your multi-faceted needs by getting yourself a unit with multiple inputs. Behringer’s U-Phoria features four inputs and outputs, a 24-bit/192-kilohertz resolution, and one ultra-low latency MIDI I/O jack. Its MIDAS preamps are the talk of the town, and its metal chassis resists shock in the case of an accidental drop. Finally, it’s compatible with all major DAWs, so you don’t have to worry about whether it’ll work with your software.
- As much as we try to take good care of our equipment, accidents happen. That’s why we appreciate this interface’s rugged construction that can meet the demands of the road and studio alike.
- Aside from its versatility, this unit’s true real-time monitoring is enough to set it apart from the average interface.
Cons:
- This pick might be a bit tricky for a beginner to operate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the point of an audio interface?
Essentially, an audio interface is a soundcard that’s better than your laptop’s. It offers various kinds of connectivity — XLR, MIDI, Hi-Z, etc. — so that you can directly connect all sorts of things to it, like microphones, instruments, and MIDI keyboards. Once connected, the source signal (from the instrument or mic) is sent into the interface, where the unit’s preamp prepares the signal to be sent along the chain. (This preamp can greatly enhance the signal’s quality, which is why it’s so important to use an audio interface if you’re looking for superior quality.) From there, the signal is sent through the output, typically to your computer, and into some sort of recording software, typically a DAW (digital audio workstation).
What does it mean when an audio interface can be rack-mounted?
A unit is designed to be rack-mounted when it fits into a metal frame specially designed to hold equipment. Typically, rack mounts will have multiple racks (or shelves). A rack mount is often found in a recording studio, where an engineer or producer might have all sorts of pedals and chassis, like equalizers, effects pedals, preamps, and the like. Basically, if an audio interface can be rack-mounted, it can fit into the standard dimensions of a rack mount’s frame.
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.