Recording high-quality audio is crucial for musicians, podcasters, and content creators alike. To achieve studio-level sound, using an audio interface is essential. An audio interface acts as the bridge between your microphone and your computer, converting analog signals to digital and vice versa. This process ensures that your recordings are clear, detailed, and professional-sounding. In 2024, the market offers a variety of audio interfaces with advanced features to cater to different needs and budgets. In this article, we will explore the top audio interfaces that offers high quality recording.
Product Features and Characteristics to Consider When Choosing an Audio Interface
When selecting an audio interface, several key features and characteristics should be considered:
Build Quality
A sturdy and well-built audio interface can withstand the rigors of frequent use. Look for interfaces with metal chassis and solid construction to ensure durability.
Meter Design
Good metering is essential for monitoring input levels and avoiding clipping. Interfaces with clear, precise LED meters or VU meters provide better control over your recordings.
High-Resolution Recording
For professional-quality audio, choose an interface that supports high-resolution recording, ideally 24-bit/192kHz. This ensures detailed and accurate sound capture.
Device Compatibility
If you use iOS devices for recording, ensure the interface is compatible with them. Many modern interfaces offer seamless integration with iPads and iPhones.
MIDI Connectors
For those using MIDI instruments, having MIDI in/out ports on your audio interface is crucial. This allows for easy connectivity and synchronization of your MIDI gear.
Software Included
Some audio interfaces come with bundled software, such as DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) and plugins, which can be valuable additions to your recording setup.
Loopback Recording
Loopback recording is useful for podcasters and live streamers, allowing them to capture system audio alongside their microphone input.
Best Audio Interfaces for Professional Recording
Here are our top recommendations for audio interfaces in 2024:
1. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen - Best Overall for Musicians
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen is a versatile and popular choice among musicians. It features two upgraded Scarlett mic preamps, high-headroom instrument inputs, and high-performance converters.
Notable Features:
✅ 24-bit/192kHz resolution
✅ Two XLR/TRS combo inputs
✅ Air mode for added clarity
✅ USB-C connectivity
✅ Bundled software suite
2. Focusrite Vocaster Two - Best for Podcasting
Designed specifically for podcasters, the Vocaster Two offers easy-to-use controls, auto-gain, and enhancements for vocal clarity. It includes a loopback function and dual headphone outputs.
Notable Features:
✅ Auto-gain and Enhance buttons
✅ Two XLR mic inputs
✅ Loopback functionality
✅ Dual headphone outputs
3. Universal Audio Volt 2 - Best for a Built-in MIDI Interface
The Volt 2 combines Universal Audio’s renowned preamps with a built-in MIDI interface, making it a great choice for musicians who use MIDI gear.
Notable Features:
✅ 24-bit/192kHz resolution
✅ Vintage Mic Preamp mode
✅ MIDI in/out ports
✅ USB-C connectivity
4. Universal Audio Volt 276 - Pro-Quality Music Production
The Volt 276 steps up from the Volt 2 with additional features like analog compression and enhanced preamps, suitable for high-end music production.
Notable Features:
✅ Built-in analog compressor
✅ Vintage Mic Preamp mode
✅ 24-bit/192kHz resolution
✅ USB-C connectivity
5. Audient Evo 4 - Perfect Fit for Beginners
The Evo 4 is user-friendly and affordable, with smart gain technology that automatically sets input levels. It’s ideal for beginners.
Notable Features:
✅ Smart gain function
✅ Two XLR/TRS combo inputs
✅ Loopback feature
✅ 24-bit/96kHz resolution
6. Maono AMC2 Neo
The Maono C2 Neo is designed for musicians and content creators who need a versatile and high-quality audio interface. This device boasts high-resolution audio capabilities, supporting up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution, which ensures that recordings are captured with pristine clarity and detail. Plus, it's super affordable!
The C2 Neo features two XLR/TRS combo inputs, providing the flexibility to connect both microphones and instruments. This makes it ideal for recording vocals, guitars, keyboards, and more. The inclusion of +48V phantom power means it can accommodate a wide range of condenser microphones, enhancing its versatility
Notable Features:
✅ High-Resolution Audio: 24-bit/192kHz
✅ Dual Inputs: 2 x XLR/TRS combo
✅ Phantom Power: +48V
✅ Direct Monitoring: Zero-latency
✅ Connectivity: USB-C
✅ Bundled Software: DAWs and plugins
✅ Build: Compact and durable
Specifications:
- Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
- Inputs: 2 x XLR/TRS combo
- Phantom Power: +48V
- Connectivity: USB-C
- Monitoring: Zero-latency direct monitoring
- Dimensions: Compact and portable
- Software: Included DAW and plugin bundle
7. Maono AMG1 Neo
The Maono G1 Neo is tailored for solo recording artists and podcasters who require a reliable and straightforward audio interface. It features a high-quality microphone preamp that delivers clear and detailed sound, ensuring that your recordings are professional and polished.
The G1 Neo is equipped with a single XLR/TRS combo input, making it ideal for solo performers who typically use one microphone or instrument at a time. This simplicity is complemented by its compact and portable design, making it easy to carry and perfect for on-the-go recording.
Despite its small size, the G1 Neo does not compromise on essential features. It includes +48V phantom power, allowing the use of condenser microphones, and zero-latency direct monitoring for real-time audio feedback, ensuring precise recordings. The USB-C connectivity offers modern and efficient data transfer, enhancing its compatibility with various devices.
The G1 Neo is also known for its user-friendly interface, with simple and intuitive controls that make it easy to use, even for beginners. Its affordability makes it an attractive option for those looking to start their recording journey without breaking the bank. Like the C2 Neo, G1 Neo is available for a reasonable price.
Notable Features:
✅ High-Quality Preamps: Clear and detailed sound
✅ Single Input: 1 x XLR/TRS combo
✅ Compact and Portable: Easy to carry
✅ Phantom Power: +48V
✅ User-Friendly Interface: Simple controls
✅ Connectivity: USB-C
✅ Direct Monitoring: Zero-latency
✅ Affordable: Budget-friendly
Specifications:
- Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz
- Inputs: 1 x XLR/TRS combo
- Phantom Power: +48V
- Connectivity: USB-C
- Monitoring: Zero-latency direct monitoring
- Dimensions: Compact and portable
- Software: Basic software bundle (varies by package)
Other Good USB Audio Interfaces
Here are additional audio interfaces worth considering:
- M-Audio M-Track Duo - A budget-friendly option with two combo inputs and direct monitoring.
- Arturia MiniFuse 2 - Compact with USB-C connectivity and bundled software.
- Audient iD4 MKII - Offers high-quality preamps and a JFET DI input.
- Behringer U-Phoria UMC202HD - Affordable with MIDAS preamps and 24-bit/192kHz resolution.
- Behringer U-Phoria UMC204HD - Similar to the UMC202HD but with additional MIDI I/O.
- PreSonus Studio 24c - Compact with high-resolution audio and MIDI I/O.
- Roland’s Rubix 22 - Sturdy build with low noise and clear sound.
- Solid State Logic SSL 2+ - High-quality preamps and professional-grade sound.
- Steinberg UR22 MKII - Reliable with high-quality converters and iOS compatibility.
- Zoom U-24 - Portable with dual inputs and MIDI support.
- Behringer UMC22 - Very affordable with solid performance for its price.
- Universal Audio Apollo Twin X - Best Digital Interface for Mac, Top-tier audio quality with Thunderbolt 3 connectivity.
- IK Multimedia AXE I/O - Best for guitarists with advanced input options.
- PreSonus Revelator io24 - Includes built-in loopback and effects, perfect for streaming
- SSL 2+ - Offers Pristine sound quality with classic SSL design, perfect for vocalists.
- Rode Rodecaster Duo - All-in-one solution for podcasters with multiple mic inputs and effects.
- Motu M4 - Best with MIDI, High-resolution audio and extensive MIDI capabilities.
All of these interface offer good value for their price range but if you want a list of top 10 budget interfaces, here is the summarized list:
Top 10 budget interfaces:
- M-Audio M-Track Duo
- Arturia MiniFuse 2
- Behringer U-Phoria UMC202HD
- Behringer U-Phoria UMC204HD
- PreSonus Studio 24c
- Roland’s Rubix 22
- Steinberg UR22 MKII
- Zoom U-24
- Behringer UMC22
- Motu M4
Buying Tips and FAQs
1. What is an audio interface?
An audio interface is a device that connects your microphone and other audio gear to your computer, converting analog signals to digital and vice versa.
2. Who are audio interfaces for?
Audio interfaces are for musicians, podcasters, streamers, and anyone needing high-quality audio recording and playback.
3. Do audio interfaces improve sound quality?
Yes, audio interfaces provide better preamps, converters, and overall audio quality compared to built-in computer sound cards.
4. What are the different types of audio interface?
USB: Common and widely compatible.
Thunderbolt: Faster and lower latency, typically for professional use.
Firewire: Older standard, still in use.
PCIe: Internal cards for desktop PCs, offering high performance.
5. What is an acceptable latency for an audio interface?
Latency under 10ms to 20ms is generally acceptable for recording and monitoring in real-time.
6. How much does an audio interface cost?
Prices range from $50 for basic models to several thousand dollars for high-end professional units.
7. What are the popular brands of audio interface?
Focusrite, Universal Audio, PreSonus, Audient, Behringer, Steinberg, SSL, and Maono are some of the well-known brands.
Factors to Look for When Testing an Audio Interface
- Features
Ensure the interface meets your specific needs, such as input/output count, MIDI support, and built-in effects.
- Build Quality
Look for robust construction that can withstand regular use.
- Installation
Check that the interface is easy to set up and compatible with your operating system.
- Sound
High-quality preamps and converters are essential for professional sound.
- Usability
Interfaces should have intuitive controls and clear metering.
Summary
Choosing the right audio interface is crucial for achieving high-quality vocal recordings. In 2024, options range from budget-friendly models like the Behringer UMC22, and Maono audio interfaces. By considering factors such as build quality, features, and usability, you can find the perfect interface to suit your recording needs.
