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8 Best Usb Audio Interface for 2024
Published: October 26, 2023
Looking for the best USB audio interface of 2023? Explore our top picks and find the perfect USB audio interface for your audio recording needs.
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Are you searching for the perfect USB audio interface to enhance your audio recording and production experience in 2023? Look no further! In this article, we will discuss the 8 best USB audio interfaces available on the market that are guaranteed to meet your professional audio needs. Whether you are a musician, podcaster, or voice-over artist, these interfaces offer a combination of high-quality sound, ease of use, and versatility. Join us as we explore the top contenders for the 8 best USB audio interfaces for 2023 and discover which one is the perfect fit for you.
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BEST RATING:Behringer U-Phoria UM2 USB Audio Interface
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BEST PRICE:Zoom H6 Portable Recorder
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BESTSELLER:M-Audio M-Track Solo USB Audio Interface
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OUR PICK:Rode AI-Micro USB Audio Interface
Overall Score: 9/10
The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface is an excellent choice for musicians, vocalists, podcasters, and producers who want high-fidelity, studio-quality recordings. With its pro performance pre-amps and switchable Air mode, you can achieve brighter and more open recordings with added vocal clarity. The high headroom instrument input allows you to capture guitar and bass recordings without sacrificing tone. You can record and mix at up to 24-bit/192kHz with the high-performance converters, ensuring professional-sounding results. The low-noise balanced outputs provide crystal-clear audio playback, while the included software and sound content provide all the tools you need to start recording right away. With a three-year warranty, this audio interface is a reliable choice for your recording needs.
Key Features
- Pro performance pre-amps with switchable Air mode
- High headroom instrument input for guitar and bass recordings
- Studio-quality recordings at 24-bit/192k Hz
- Low-noise balanced outputs for crystal-clear playback
- Easy Start online tool for quick setup
- Software and sound content included
- Three-year warranty
Specifications
- Dimension: 3.77Lx5.65Wx1.71H
- Size: Pack of 1
Pros
- Exceptional audio quality
- Versatile for various recording setups
- Straightforward setup with user-friendly software
- Switchable Air mode adds brightness to recordings
- Compact and durable design
- Low-latency monitoring for real-time performance
Cons
- Limited input options for experienced users
- No MIDI In/Out ports
- Mode changes require Windows utility program
The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for high-quality recordings. With its professional-grade pre-amps, versatile features, and easy setup, it offers exceptional value for both beginners and experienced users. The audio clarity and transparent sound make it a reliable tool for capturing vocals, instruments, and podcasts. Although it has a few limitations like limited input options and the need for a Windows utility program to change modes, these minor inconveniences are outweighed by its overall performance. Whether you’re a budding musician or a professional producer, the Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is a solid investment that will help you unleash your audio potential.
Overall Score: 8/10
The M-Audio M-Track Solo is a versatile USB audio interface designed for recording, streaming, and podcasting. With its 48 kHz audio resolution, it delivers pristine sound quality for all your audio needs. The interface features one combo XLR / Line input with phantom power, perfect for recording vocals, guitars, or other line input signals. It also has one Line / Instrument input for added flexibility. The M-Track Solo includes a headphone output and stereo RCA outputs for fuss-free monitoring. With its transparent Crystal Preamp, you can expect optimal sound from all your microphones, including condenser mics. The interface comes with MPC Beats Software from Akai Professional, offering essential production tools. Compact and easy to use, the M-Audio M-Track Solo is a reliable audio interface for all your recording needs.
Key Features
- USB sound card for Mac or PC
- 48 k Hz audio resolution
- Combo XLR / Line Input with phantom power
- Line / Instrument input
- 1/8” headphone output and stereo RCA outputs
- Transparent Crystal Preamp for optimal microphone sound
- Includes MPC Beats Software
Specifications
- Dimension: 4.46Lx6.43Wx2.14H
- Size: With 1 Mic Input
Pros
- Versatile and portable
- High-quality sound recording
- Flexible monitoring options
- Optimal microphone performance
- Includes essential production tools
Cons
- Compatibility issues with certain software (Zoom, Skype)
- Input channel pots have limited control
The M-Audio M-Track Solo is a reliable and compact USB audio interface that offers high-quality sound recording for various purposes. With its versatile inputs and transparent Crystal Preamp, it ensures optimal performance with any microphone. The interface provides a range of monitoring options and includes essential production tools. While it may have compatibility issues with certain software, it still delivers excellent sound quality for recording, streaming, and podcasting. Overall, the M-Audio M-Track Solo is a great choice for both beginners and experienced users in need of a portable and reliable audio interface.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Behringer U-Phoria UM2 USB Audio Interface is a compact and affordable audio interface that is perfect for musicians, podcasters, and voiceover artists. With its 2-channel USB interface and XENYX preamp, it delivers professional-level sound quality. It also features an instrument input and phantom power for connecting microphones and instruments. The interface operates at a sample rate of 48kHz, ensuring clear and crisp audio. The black interface has a dimension of 8.23Lx6.14Wx3.46H and is available in a 1-channel size. Customers have given it a rating of 4.5/5, praising its reliability and value for money. Overall, the Behringer U-Phoria UM2 USB Audio Interface is a versatile and high-quality product that provides excellent sound performance for various audio recording needs.
Key Features
- 2-channel USB Audio Interface with 1 XENYX Preamp
- Instrument Input
- Phantom Power
- 48k Hz
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 8.23Lx6.14Wx3.46H
- Size: 1-Channel
Pros
- Affordable and compact
- Excellent sound quality
- Versatile for various recording needs
- Easy to use
Cons
- Some customers received scratched devices
The Behringer U-Phoria UM2 USB Audio Interface is a highly recommended product for musicians, podcasters, and voiceover artists. It offers professional-level sound quality at an affordable price. The interface is easy to set up and use, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced users. The 2-channel USB interface and XENYX preamp provide excellent audio performance for recording instruments and vocals. Despite a few reports of scratched devices, most customers are satisfied with the product’s reliability and value for money. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly audio interface that doesn’t compromise on quality, the Behringer U-Phoria UM2 USB Audio Interface is an excellent choice.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Behringer U-Control UCA222 USB Audio Interface is an ultra-flexible audio interface that connects your instruments, mixer, etc. with your computer for recording and playback. It works with both PC and Mac computers, with no setup or drivers required. The interface comes bundled with a compact music production software that includes a feature-rich audio/MIDI sequencer and over 150 virtual instruments and effect plug-ins. It also includes Audacity audio editor and comprehensive podcasting software. The UCA222 features a stereo headphone output with a dedicated level control for monitoring input and output. With its revolutionary energyXT2.5 software, this USB audio interface provides a seamless experience for music production. Overall, it is a versatile and user-friendly product for recording and producing high-quality audio.
Key Features
- Ultra-flexible audio interface connects instruments to computer for recording
- Compact music production software included with feature-rich audio/MIDI sequencer
- Massive software bundle includes Audacity editor and over 150 virtual instruments
- Works with PC or Mac computer, no setup or drivers required
- Stereo headphone output with dedicated level control for monitoring
Specifications
- Color: Original Version
- Dimension: 7.20Lx5.50Wx1.40H
Pros
- Versatile and user-friendly
- No setup or drivers required
- Includes comprehensive music production software
- Stereo headphone output with level control
- Works with both PC and Mac computers
Cons
- No input volume adjustment or LEDs for clipping
- Labeled with two different models
The Behringer U-Control UCA222 USB Audio Interface is a highly recommended product for recording and playback. Its ultra-flexible design and seamless compatibility with PC and Mac make it a convenient choice for musicians and producers. The compact music production software and massive bundle of virtual instruments and effects add value to this interface. The stereo headphone output with level control allows for efficient monitoring. However, the lack of input volume adjustment and LEDs for clipping can be considered minor drawbacks. Overall, the UCA222 offers great performance and functionality, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to enhance their audio recording and production capabilities.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The STRICH 2×2 Computer Professional Recording Audio Interface Touch Model is a versatile and user-friendly device that is perfect for beginners in the world of audio recording. With its powerful preamp and two XLR/Line combo input interfaces, it provides clear reproduction of vocals and guitar sound. The interface is compatible with Mac/Win 7 or above computer operating systems and works seamlessly with most DAW software available in the market. It also features 48V phantom power mode, reverb tone adjustment, and touch controls for easy parameter adjustments. The SAI-50 audio interface is compact and durable, making it suitable for travel. Overall, it offers great value for its price and is a fantastic option for home studios or anyone looking to start their audio recording journey.
Key Features
- Two XLR/Line combo input interfaces with powerful preamp
- Compatible with Mac/Win 7 or above computer operating systems
- Clear reproduction of vocals and guitar sound
- Supports 48V phantom power mode and reverb tone adjustment
- Compact and durable design for travel
Specifications
- Dimension: 8.07Lx5.51Wx2.17H
Pros
- Easy to use
- Compact and durable design
- Clear reproduction of vocals and guitar sound
- Compatible with most DAW software
- Affordable price
Cons
- Limited inputs and outputs
- Mic preamps could be of better quality
The STRICH 2×2 Computer Professional Recording Audio Interface Touch Model is a great choice for beginners and home studios. Despite its affordable price, it offers impressive performance and functionality. The audio interface provides clear reproduction of vocals and guitar sound, and its compatibility with popular DAW software makes it a versatile tool. It may have some limitations in terms of inputs and outputs, but for basic recording needs, it is more than sufficient. The compact and durable design also makes it ideal for travel. Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and user-friendly audio interface, the STRICH 2×2 Computer Professional Recording Audio Interface Touch Model is definitely worth considering.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD USB Audio Interface is a 4-in/4-out USB 2.0 audio interface with 4 MIDAS preamps. It offers a 24-bit/192kHz resolution and features phantom power, MIDI I/O, and inserts. The unit is compact and easy to set up, making it great for both home studio recording and live sound applications. However, some users have experienced issues with a broken USB cable and intermittent connectivity. The interface has received positive reviews for its sound quality and value for money. It is compatible with various recording software, including Audacity. Overall, the Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD USB Audio Interface is a reliable and budget-friendly option for those looking to enhance their audio recording capabilities.
Key Features
- 4-in/4-out USB 2.0 Audio Interface with 4 MIDAS Preamps
- 24-bit/192k Hz
- Phantom Power
- Midi i/O
- Inserts
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 16.30Lx6.20Wx3.70H
Pros
- High-quality sound at an affordable price
- Compact and easy to set up
- Compatible with various recording software
- Ideal for home studio recording and live sound
Cons
- Broken USB cable reported by some users
- Intermittent connectivity issues
- Low volume output in certain setups
- Lack of comprehensive documentation
The Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD USB Audio Interface is a reliable choice for both amateur and professional audio enthusiasts. While there have been some reported issues with the USB cable and intermittent connectivity, the interface offers high-quality sound and is budget-friendly. Its compact design and easy setup make it suitable for home studio recording and live sound applications. The UMC404HD is compatible with popular recording software like Audacity and provides convenient features such as phantom power and MIDI I/O. However, users may need to seek additional resources for comprehensive documentation. Overall, this audio interface is a great investment for those looking to enhance their recording capabilities without breaking the bank.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Zoom H6 All Black 6-Track Portable Recorder is a versatile and professional-level audio recorder that allows you to capture high-quality sound with ease. With up to 24-bit/96kHz audio and six-track simultaneous recording, you can be sure to capture every detail of your sound. It features four mic/line inputs and interchangeable capsules, making it perfect for recording anything from meetings to music. The recorder also includes handy functions like auto-record, pre-record, and backup-record to ensure you never miss the perfect take. With a large full-color LCD display and easy-to-use gain control knobs, navigating and adjusting settings is a breeze. The Zoom H6 has a long battery life of over 20 hours, making it ideal for extended recording sessions. Whether you're a podcaster, musician, or need a reliable portable recorder for any application, the Zoom H6 All Black 6-Track Portable Recorder is a powerful and versatile choice.
Key Features
- Record Like a Pro: up to 24-bit/96k Hz audio, six-track recording
- Versatile Recording: four mic/line inputs, interchangeable capsules
- Never Miss a Beat: auto-record, pre-record, backup-record functions
- Easy to Use: large full-color LCD display, gain control knobs with -20d B pads
- Long Battery Life: over 20 hours of operation with standard AA batteries
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 3.10Lx1.90Wx6.00H
- Size: USB Audio Interface, Battery Powered
Pros
- Professional sound quality
- Versatile for various recording needs
- Easy to use
- Long battery life
Cons
- One minor flaw
- Some reservations about convenience
The Zoom H6 All Black 6-Track Portable Recorder is an excellent choice for anyone in need of a powerful and versatile portable recorder. It delivers professional sound quality with its high-resolution audio and offers a range of useful features for different recording scenarios. The long battery life ensures that you can rely on it for extended sessions, making it ideal for podcasting, music recording, or any other application where high-quality audio capture is crucial. While there may be a minor flaw and some reservations about convenience, overall, the Zoom H6 is a reliable and efficient tool that will satisfy the needs of both professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Rode AI-Micro USB Audio Interface is an ultra-compact dual-channel interface that allows you to record high-quality audio on computers and mobile devices. It is compatible with various microphones and can be easily set up with any type of microphone. The interface also features a high-power headphone output for crystal-clear audio monitoring and playback. With its universal USB output, it can connect seamlessly to computers, smartphones, and tablets. The Rode AI-Micro USB Audio Interface is the perfect audio solution for recording or streaming situations, including Zoom calls, podcasting, mobile recording, and filmmaking.
Key Features
- Ultra-compact dual-channel interface for recording high-quality audio on computers and mobile devices
- Compatible with virtually any microphone with a 3.5mm output
- Auto-sensing inputs for instant set-up with any type of microphone
- High-power headphone output for crystal-clear audio monitoring and playback
- Connects seamlessly to computers, smartphones, and tablets via universal USB output
- Compatible with the entire Rode app suite for expanded features and functionality
- Ideal for recording or streaming situations, including Zoom calls, podcasting, mobile recording, and filmmaking
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 3.19Lx1.50Wx5.47H
Pros
- Compact and portable design
- Easy set-up with any type of microphone
- Crystal-clear audio monitoring and playback
- Universal USB output for seamless connectivity
- Compatible with Rode app suite for expanded functionality
Cons
- Direct monitoring feature is only in mono
- Cannot charge phone while using the unit
The Rode AI-Micro USB Audio Interface is a versatile and convenient device for recording high-quality audio on computers and mobile devices. Its compact design and compatibility with various microphones make it a great tool for podcasting, filmmaking, and other recording or streaming needs. The interface’s high-power headphone output ensures crystal-clear audio monitoring and playback, while the universal USB output allows for seamless connectivity with computers, smartphones, and tablets. The ability to connect to the entire Rode app suite expands the functionality of the interface, making it even more valuable. Despite some minor drawbacks, the Rode AI-Micro USB Audio Interface provides excellent audio quality and is a game-changer for those in need of a reliable recording solution.
USB Audio Interface Buyer's Guide
So you're ready to take your audio recording to the next level and invest in a USB audio interface. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. But fear not! This buyer's guide will help you navigate through the world of USB audio interfaces and make an informed decision. Let's dive right in:
1. Determine Your Needs
- Consider the number of inputs and outputs you require for your recording setup.
- Determine the type of connectors you need, such as XLR, 1/4", MIDI, or digital.
- Assess your recording environment and choose a USB audio interface with the appropriate features, like phantom power or built-in preamps.
2. Compatibility with Your Setup
- Ensure that the USB audio interface is compatible with your operating system (Windows, Mac, etc.).
- Check if the interface supports the necessary audio software you plan to use.
- Consider the device's power requirements and ensure it doesn't overload your available USB ports.
3. Audio Quality and Latency
- Look for USB audio interfaces that offer high-quality audio conversion, typically measured in bit-depth and sample rate.
- Consider the audio resolution you need for your recordings and choose accordingly.
- Check the latency performance of the interface – lower latency allows for better real-time monitoring and recording accuracy.
4. Portability and Design
- If you plan on recording on-the-go or need a portable setup, consider a compact and lightweight USB audio interface.
- Look for interfaces with durable construction to withstand the demands of travel.
- If aesthetics matter to you, choose an interface that matches your personal style and studio setup.
5. Price Range
- Determine your budget range beforehand, as USB audio interfaces can vary significantly in price.
- Consider the trade-off between features, quality, and affordability.
- Don't compromise on essential features or audio quality, even when trying to stay within a budget.
6. Expandability and Future-Proofing
- If you anticipate expanding your recording setup in the future, choose a USB audio interface with additional inputs and outputs.
- Consider the compatibility and availability of any add-ons or expansion options offered by the manufacturer.
- Check if the interface supports future firmware updates to ensure its longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions about 8 Best Usb Audio Interface for 2023
A USB audio interface is an external device that connects to your computer via USB and allows you to record and playback audio with professional-grade quality. It serves as a bridge between your computer and various audio equipment, such as microphones, instruments, and speakers.
Yes, USB audio interfaces are designed to be compatible with both desktop and laptop computers. They utilize the USB port for connectivity and power, making them highly versatile and portable.
While it’s possible to use your computer’s built-in sound card for basic recording, an external USB audio interface offers significant advantages in terms of audio quality, connectivity options, and latency performance. It is highly recommended for anyone pursuing professional or high-fidelity audio recording.
The number of inputs and outputs you need depends on your recording requirements. If you’re recording solo vocals or single instruments, a USB audio interface with one or two inputs may suffice. However, if you plan on recording multi-track sessions with several instruments simultaneously, you’ll need an interface with multiple inputs and outputs.
Latency refers to the time delay between when an audio signal enters the USB audio interface and when it is played back through your headphones or speakers. Low latency is crucial for real-time monitoring and ensures accurate playback while recording. High latency can be problematic, as it creates a noticeable delay that can disrupt your performance.