The Best USB Audio Interfaces
These days, it’s easier than ever to get a great quality recording from the comfort of your own home. And, with the growing popularity of independent production, having a home studio setup is essential. Whether you’re in a band or doing voiceovers, there’s an interface that’s perfect for your setup. That’s why we tracked down the best options for audio interfaces. This could be your next big break.
What to Look For
There are some important questions to consider when buying a new audio device. First off, will you be using it for gigging or at the studio? How many microphones or quarter-inch inputs do you need? What kind of controls, like EQ knobs, do you want? These are all important questions to answer before dropping money on a new audio interface. Our favorite came from Focusrite, whose ultra-affordable 3rd Gen Scarlett 2i2 audio interface is about as versatile as it gets. But if your budget is big and you want a higher number of inputs, we recommend Behringer’s UMC404HD premium interface. Check out our in-depth reviews below.
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.
Alesis MultiMix 4 USB FX Mixer and Audio Interface
Versatility meets convenience
Buying gear can be tough when you need equipment for a lot of different uses. That’s why this two-in-one option is great for the gigging musician. This interface functions as a home studio recording device that connects to a computer via USB but can also be used to mix live music. In other words, if you buy yourself a couple of speakers, this also can power your coffee house gig.
It also has several built-in effects, which can be used to spruce up your live sound. It may lack the sound quality of other options, but why settle for one product when you can have both in one unit? If you need to record a demo and then throw your own small show, this can help you take your musical act to the next level.
Pros:
- This USB audio interface has incredibly clean sound. You won’t notice much-unwanted noise, such as humming or hissing, from microphones and out of your speakers.
- It’s able to provide 48V phantom power for condenser microphones.
Cons:
- It requires external power.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does an audio interface come with a program for recording and mixing tracks?
Some audio interfaces come as a bundle with a downloadable DAW (digital audio workstation), while others do not. If they do, it’s most likely not a full version of the program. Many come with a basic version with limited functions or a trial version.
Pro Tools is the industry standard, but Logic is another popular choice. You can purchase these programs separately, and some are available for free online. There are many others to choose from, like GarageBand, Reaper, Ableton, Cubase, and more.
Do I need a microphone to record with an interface?
If you are recording vocals, the answer is yes. You can also plug a guitar directly into the interface, as well as any other electric instrument, using a 1/4-inch output. This will allow for direct input into the DAW of your choice. Many interface options come with microphone and instrument inputs, so you may be able to use both.
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