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Last updated: 8 Feb 2021
Best Audio Interfaces
An audio interface is a hardware unit that connects your instrument to your computer. They come in all sizes and configurations, with different amount of inputs/outputs as you go up in size. A solid singer/songwriter audio interface will have either one or two inputs, a L/R output to connect to your external speakers and a headphone output. Input connections should have either a 1/4" and/or XLR jack to plug in an instrument and vocal mic. There are some serious deals to be had here for not much money to get you on your way to recording! Here is our list of the best audio interfaces in 2021.
Best Audio Interface
1
Focusrite Scarlett Solo Audio Interface
– Best Choice
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Key Features
- Ideal Recording Package for Singer/Songwriters.
- The Scarlett Solo interface features Focusrite’s acclaimed preamp for stellar sonic results with any sound source. Combined with the Audio-Technica AT2020 cardioid condenser mic, you’ve got a versatile recording rig for vocals and instruments.
- Complete with a 10′ Pro Co XLR microphone cable.
THE SCOOP
This audio interface from Focusrite really is the “total package.” This interface comes complete with everything you need to take your computer recording session to the next level.
2
Steinberg UR24C USB Audio Interface
– Runner-Up
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Key Features
- This 2-in/4-out USB-C interface is packed with two Class-A D-PRE microphone preamps with +48V phantom power, MIDI I/O, two line outputs, and four RCA outputs.
- With USB 3.0 connectivity and the included Cubase AI and Cubasis LE software, you can record to Mac, PC, or Android and iOS tablets.
- Windows, Mac OS, and iOS cross-platform compatibility for superior flexibility. MIDI I/O syncs effortlessly with outside hardware.
THE SCOOP
The Steinberg UR24C ASB Audio Interface is perfect for anyone from professional artists to at-home rockstars. The portable design allows you to slip this interface into your bag and jam out wherever you are.
3
IK Multimedia AXE SOLO Audio Interface
– Premium Pick
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Key Features
- The IK Multimedia AXE I/O Solo is a stripped-down 2-in/3-out interface with guitar-centric components and features, including a free version of their award-winning Amplitube 5.
- You can choose on the front end to send your signal through AXE I/O Solo’s transparent PURE circuitry or to spice it up with the unit’s colorful JFET input stage. High-quality digital conversion and low-jitter clocking deliver pristine sound, and a single Class A mic preamp is ideal for recording vocals and other instruments.
- Single Class A mic preamp with +48-volt phantom power Accurate clocking; transparent conversionDedicated re-amp output lets you re-record or live monitor through a live amp.
THE SCOOP
IK Multimedia has guitar and bass players in mind with their Axe Solo interface. Take your music to a new level with its high-quality features.
4
Audient iD4 USB Audio Interface
– World Class
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Key Features
- The Audient iD4 audio interface fortifies your studio with one of Audient’s renowned Class A console mic preamps, a discrete JFET DI, class-leading conversion technology, two headphone jacks, and console-style monitoring control.
- The intuitive ScrollControl virtual scroll wheel lets you use the iD4’s big volume knob to tweak your DAW and plug-in parameters and even scroll your iTunes library. Simply press the knob to dim the monitors.
- Features:1 Audient Class A console mic preamplifier, 1 discrete JFET instrument input, High-performance converters, Zero-latency monitoring with monitor mix and pan Left and Right 1/4″ TRS main speaker outputs, 2 independent Class AB headphone outputs.
THE SCOOP
The Audient iD4 USB Interface is the total package. Complete with Class A console mic preamps, we guarantee you will love the quality this interface has to offer.
5
PreSonus AudioBox iTwo USB Audio Interface
– Best Value
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Key Features
- The PreSonus AudioBox iTwo USB audio interface is an outstanding solution for two-channel recording applications. With two Class A mic/instrument preamps and 24-bit/96kHz recording quality, you’re well equipped for stereo recordings, vocal/instrument combinations, MIDI production, and much more.
- Everything you need to record and mix with the included Studio One Artist DAW software. Whether you are trying to record killer tracks, timestretch audio regions, or quantize drum parts, Studio One Artist lets you do it with ease.
- Whether you are trying to record killer tracks, timestretch audio regions, or quantize drum parts, Studio One Artist lets you do it with ease.
THE SCOOP
If you are looking for high-quality results in a compact way, this interface from PreSonus is perfect for you. This two-channel recording technology can easily be taken on the road for capturing some amazing sound in any setting.
Best Audio Interfaces Buying Guides
Audio interfaces are essential to any audio setup, from home recording to professional-grade practice spaces. Every device needs an audio interface in order to connect and function correctly, and there are plenty of different models to choose from. Before you start shopping, you’ll need to make sure that your chosen interface is compatible with your computer. Then, it“s time to figure out which features are important to you and what price range you can afford. So, read on to learn more about audio interfaces and how to find the right one for you.
American Songwriter delivers original review content that connects musicians of all skill level with outstanding products. We help people discover practical products that will improve their lives and are worth the investment, focusing on experience and real-life use cases. In the same way that readers trust American Songwriter to navigate music news, they also trust us to navigate the abundant world of internet shopping. General information about types of products and categories is provided here to assist readers in meeting their varied purchase needs and is not intended to represent the page author's endorsement in any way.
Tips for Choosing the Right Audio Interface
Although many people will agree that a USB microphone is a fine option, there are a few advantages to using an XLR interface as opposed to an analog line out. For one, the signal from a digital microphone will always be more clear and in-tune with the source. Additionally, digital mics are much more compact and easier to transport. However, if you want to add a subtle vocal or acoustic guitar track to your mix, you may prefer the control you get with an output jack.
You can always adjust the level later on, but if it's already in your chain, it may be easier for you to directly plug in the right mic and monitor the sound without needing to change outputs. If you're working with a computer or other recording software, be sure to set the input gain to at least 100%, even if your computer doesn't normally allow you that much control.
While many decent USB mikes have an input jack, they often don't have a headphone output. Unless you've got a mic stand that will accept a regular headphone or a traditional XLR cable, in which case you might as well use a cable that comes with your interface, make sure you have at hand an inexpensive (no-frills, no-longer-cheap) set of wire headphones or earbuds.
As mentioned above, noise cancellation is essential when working in a noisy environment. That's why many high-end USB interfaces have noise-cancelling microphones built in.
Price Ranges of Audio Interfaces
Inexpensive
The least expensive BOSS audio interfaces cost $50 to $150. These have few built-in features but are adequate for basic recording and mixing.
Mid-Range
You’ll find plenty of BOS audio interface choices in the $250 to approximately $500 range. You can get a compact, mid- to high-end system with built in effects and more.
Expensive (and sometimes hybrid)
You might pay $600 and up for a an audio input interface. The best of the best are designed for professional recording studios and include a slew of extra features.
Important Features of Audio Interfaces
Before you make your final purchase, take a look at the following essential features to ensure that you get the best audio interface for your needs. It might just save you some money in the long run. Make sure that all the listed features are important to you. These features will ensure you can get maximum use out of your audio input device.
Size
The larger the input port, the better. This is because you need an interface with enough space to accommodate all of the connections you want to make.
Portability
As well as the size, you should also take into consideration portability. The interface should be able to easily fit in a drawer, or be placed on a table top. A good interface that is easy to transport should have a secure and sturdy base to prevent damage to your hard work.
Inputs
It is recommended that your interface comes with at least 2 inputs, both of which will be needed for connecting different types of audio sources. One input to connect your headphones while you are listening to music and another input for controlling your sound system. If your preferred source doesn’t have an input, then you will need to buy a dedicated headphone amplifier separately. Then, it is also important that the interface supports all audio formats. Even if you don‘t plan on using your chosen audio source with your device, having an audio connection will surely enhance the user experience.
USB Port
USB is a form of connection for all your devices, and you definitely need one on your next audio purchase. Connecting your USB device will allow you to transfer your music directly from your source and then play it back. An audio USB port is perfect for this, as it allows you more flexibility as you could connect as many devices as possible to gain the full benefit.
Final Thoughts
To get the most from an audio interface, it’s important to understand how it works and what it can do. The first thing you need to do is to decide which type of interface you want to buy. There are many different types available, so it may be a little confusing.
First, however, we will take a look at the main types of interfaces and their main uses.
Integrated
Integrated audio interfaces are perfect if you're after a single device that can integrate with your computer. These interfaces will have the ability to connect directly to your PC and include a variety of different connections. You can use it with a range of audio formats, including DSD, WAV, and FLAC.
Multimedia
Multifunctional audio interfaces are ideal if your audio needs are a bit more diverse. They provide the means to play several audio sources simultaneously, allowing you to listen to music from different sources while working on different applications. Some interfaces also have USB connections, which allow you even more connectivity options.
Wireless
Wireless audio is great for when you dont want an interface plugged into your machine. Instead, you can listen and interact with the audio source wirelessly. Not all interfaces include this capability, but those that do are generally quite expensive.
Audio Interface FAQ
Q: What is an audio interface?
A: An audio interconnect is a device that allows your computer to connect to a sound system. Some interfaces can be used to play back your music files from CDs or even to replace your speakers if you own a pair of hi-fi speakers. These are relatively simple devices that are great for the home user, because you can connect any computer or device to it and have it sound great.
Q: What kind of audio interfaces are available?
A: Most audio-in-interface devices are little more than a box with a headphone jack on the end of it, and the stereo speakers on it. There are a few different audio standards out there, but for now you’ll probably just have to stick with the ones that come with your audio equipment. The most common audio formats supported are DSD and PCM. DTS:X and Dolby Vision are also supported, though it‘s not recommended that you connect them to your interface if your sound card doesn”t support them.
Q: What are the benefits of an Audio Interface?
A: Audio interfaces provide a number of benefits to the user. It allows you to plug in any device and hear it play, without the need for an extra device. Your computer can now sound exactly how it sounds in your home, which can improve your overall music listening experience. You can also record your voice or use your phone―s microphone to record the audio from your favorite tunes. With an interface, you don t have any additional equipment, so you have full control over everything that happens on your system, from the volume to whether the sound is coming from speakers or from headphones. That—s all without having to buy additional hardware. Many users also find that they get a better-sounding computer with an integrated audio input device like an AV receiver, rather than buying a separate soundcard. While it may seem like a simple device, it can take some getting used too. If you are confused by all the different options out on today“s market, we‛ve compiled a list of key features to look out for. We–ll also walk you through the jargon that might be thrown around when you first start looking at interfaces. When you understand what all these different terms mean, everything will make a whole lot more sense to you.
