
Top rated Audio interfaces
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1. Focusrite Scarlett Solo – 4th Generation
The Scarlett Solo – 4th Generation Audio Interface is the ideal solution for all songwriters looking for a high-quality and user-friendly device. With two inputs and outputs, it allows for easy connection of a microphone and guitar to create studio-quality recordings. The converters offer a dynamic range of 120 dB, which is also used in renowned studios worldwide. The Air mode ensures that vocals and guitars stand out in the mix, giving recordings a special presence and richness.
Highlights:
- Industry-leading software and a large collection of plugins for recording, mixing, and mastering
- Proven Easy Start Tool from Focusrite for a quick setup
- Independent volume control for the headphone output.
Pro
- Phantom power 48V
- Very satisfied
Contra
- unusable under MacOS
- Missing autogain (2i2, 4i4)

2. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 – 4th Generation
The Scarlett 2i2 – 4th Generation Audio Interface from Focusrite is an advanced solution for artists and producers who require top-notch audio quality. With two ultra-low-noise microphone preamps and an impressive dynamic range of 120 dB, this interface delivers the clarity and detail found in professional studios. The integrated Hi-Z and high-quality line inputs allow for seamless connections to instruments such as guitars and synthesizers. The Auto Gain and Clip Safe features ensure that levels are always optimally set, allowing users to focus on their creativity without worrying about technical details. The Scarlett 2i2 comes with a comprehensive software suite that provides everything needed to produce and release music. With a user-friendly setup and compact design, this interface is perfect for mobile recording and home studios.
- Ultra-low-noise microphone preamps for clear recordings
- Auto Gain and Clip Safe for optimal level control
- Includes Hitmaker Expansion Software Bundle for comprehensive production tools
- USB-C connection for fast and reliable connectivity
- High audio resolution of 24-bit and sample rate of 192 kHz for professional sound quality.
Pro
- Lots of software
- Very good workmanship
- Good sound

3. Audient Evo 4
Evo is the new brand of the British audio specialist Audient. It combines a quarter of a century of experience in audio design with innovative new technology to enable users to produce smarter and faster. Whether you're recording the latest track, producing a beat or creating a podcast, Evo 4's advanced and versatile features allow you to turn ideas into reality quickly. As a novelty Evo 4 has a Smartgain mode that automatically adjusts the level of the microphones. This allows you to concentrate on your creativity while avoiding annoying clipping and distortion. The loopback function makes it possible to record the computer output simultaneously with the microphones. Ideal for podcasters and streamers.
Clean, warm and precise, the Evo preamps have a 58 dB gain range and get the best out of any microphone. Thanks to the built-in high-performance converters, the 113 dB dynamic range allows the recordings to reach any DAW with great detail. Even monitor mixes via headphones or connected active studio monitors can be realized effortlessly due to the extremely low latency. The intelligent multi-functional knob for level adjustment of the recording and playback channels is an enormous workflow facilitator. A JFET instrument input is available for guitar/bass direct recording. The 2 XLR combo jacks provide a stable 48 Volt phantom power and offer connections for microphones and line level sources. Evo 4 is compatible with all major audio software and plug-ins and comes with a collection of professional software that provides everything you need to get started with home recording.
Pro
- Very small
- Very good sound quality
- Easy operation
Contra
- Settings not possible with Linux.
- No ADAT

4. ESI Audiotechnik Midimate Ex
The MIDIMATE eX is a straightforward USB 2.0 MIDI interface for Mac and PC, operating with up to 32 input and output channels. It reliably provides perfect MIDI timing at an outstanding price-performance ratio. This 1.9 m long interface cable is an adapter cable that enables communication between a computer and any MIDI device with MIDI input or output. The MIDIMATE eX is equipped with two MIDI connectors, each of which can be used independently as an input or output. When connected to a MIDI output of an external MIDI device, such as a MIDI keyboard, the MIDIMATE sends the transmitted signals to the MIDI input of your software. When connected to a MIDI input, you can send MIDI data to the connected device through your software's playback function. The MIDIMATE eX is powered via the USB port, eliminating the need for an additional power supply. It also provides 5V power to the connected device directly through the USB-MIDI cable. The MIDIMATE eX works with USB 3.0/2.0/1.1 on Mac and PC and is compatible with Windows XP/Vista/7/8.1/10 as well as Mac OS X.
Details:
- USB MIDI interface
- No driver installation required
- 2 MIDI connectors that can operate independently as input or output
- USB connection
- Cable length: 1.9 m
- Powered via USB
- Provides 5V power to connected MIDI devices (Power over MIDI)
- Suitable for Mac and PC.
Pro
- Length of the cable
- Most convenient MIDI connection
- Works on the iPad

5. IK Multimedia iRig HD 2
With the iRig HD 2, IK Multimedia has released the next generation of the best-selling digital guitar interface, the iRig HD. Continuing its mobile success story for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac, and PC, the 24-bit/96 kHz audio interface offers impressive sound quality for practicing, performing, or recording anytime and anywhere. Like its predecessor, the iRig HD 2 features a high-quality, adjustable instrument/HiZ input (6.3 mm jack). New features include a headphone output (3.5 mm jack) with volume control and an output (6.3 mm jack) for connecting to a guitar amplifier or PA system. A THRU/FX switch allows either the processed or direct signal to be sent to the audio output during live performances. Additionally, the package includes a free download of the full version of AmpliTube 4, the industry-leading guitar and bass amp modeling solution for iOS, Mac, and PC. AmpliTube 4 boasts a vast, expandable collection of ultra-realistic digital models of some of the most famous amplifiers and stompbox effects of all time from manufacturers like Fender, MESA/Boogie, Ampeg, Orange, and artists like Jimi Hendrix or Slash. For stage use, a handy clip and Velcro strap for attaching to a standard microphone stand are also included.
Pro
- Very handy
- Connection for headphones
- Easy to operate
Contra
- Speaker from iPad cannot be used (but this is an iOS limitation))
- Via Ipad to speaker with slightly noticeable latency
- In app purchases expensive windows app

6. RØDE Ai-1
The RØDE AI-1 audio interface is equipped with incredible technology to ensure that recordings through your computer are easy to achieve, versatile, and sound great. The AI-1 features a single input socket, a Neutrik combo jack, which accommodates both a 3-pin XLR connector (found on most microphones) and a 6.3mm jack used for most electric instruments like guitar and bass. Layering or recording multiple tracks is a breeze: just connect, adjust the levels, and you're ready to go. The AI-1 not only sends crystal-clear audio signals to your computer software but also delivers unmatched sound through headphones, thanks to its discreet studio-quality headphone amplifier and level control.
Pro
- Small and space-saving
- 48 Phantom power
- No driver required
Contra
- Few setting options
- Accepts scratches easily

7. TIE Studio MIDI 1i1o
The Tie Studio MIDI 1i1o is particularly lightweight and compact due to the integrated interface in the USB connector. It is the easiest way to connect MIDI hardware to Windows or Mac computers. A current chipset ensures minimal latency and stable timing. Power is supplied via USB, and true plug & play eliminates the need for driver installation.
Pro
- Plug in, works
- without latency
- I would buy again.

8. RØDE AI-Micro
A small, mobile, and flexible audio interface measuring 4x4 cm for two microphones and one headphone. The AI-Micro works with both Mac and PC, as well as with smartphones (USB-C) and iPhones (Lightning). You can connect not only microphones with a 3.5 mm TRS plug but also the smartLav+ with its four-pole TRS plug - without an adapter. The AI-Micro automatically detects whether a microphone with a TRS or TRRS plug is connected and adjusts the configuration accordingly. The 3.5 mm headphone output is used for signal playback from the connected device or for latency-free monitoring of the recording signals. On the back of the AI-Micro is the USB-C port. Good to know: The AI-Micro can be configured and updated via the free app/software "RØDE Central" if needed. Additionally, the AI-Micro is recognized by the also free podcast/streaming software "RØDE Connect" and can be integrated there. The package includes the 30 cm long USB connection cables SC21 (for Lightning), SC22 (for USB-C), and SC23 (for USB-A).

9. IK Multimedia iRig 2
IRig 2 is the successor to the popular and best-selling classic among guitar interfaces for iOS. It features a mini-jack input for guitar, bass, or other instruments and a mini-jack output for an external amplifier. With the help of a dual-mode switch, you can select the signal path between direct (Thru) and "effects" (FX) through the Amplitube app (or others). A thumb wheel controls the input level. iRig 2 is compatible not only with iOS devices but also with Android products that meet the CTIA/AHJ standard.
Summary:
Instrument input (6.35 mm mono jack) | Amp output (6.35 mm mono jack) | Headphone output (3.5 mm stereo jack) | Input impedance: 380 kOhm | Gain control knob | FX / THRU switch | iOS 4.3 and higher | Compatible with Android devices with CTIA/AHJ standard | Compatible with Mac computers (late 2008) | Frequency response: 20 Hz-20 kHz +/- 0.2 dB | Includes AmpliTube FREE for iOS and Android (download) | Dimensions: 72 x 39 x 21 mm | Weight: 43 g.
Pro
- Small and handy
- Good audio quality

10. IK Multimedia iRig Stream
From Instagram livestreams to YouTube videos, SoundCloud playlists, and more - social media and smartphones have become a key factor in how many artists are heard and connect with their fans. With iRig Stream, sharing is easier than ever. You can connect instruments, mixers, and more to your iPhone, iPad, Android device, and Mac/PC, utilizing practical features specifically designed for use on today's most popular platforms. Whether it's mono or stereo recordings, live playing, or an existing mix, iRig Stream allows you to connect with all your favorite apps, enabling you to engage with your listeners instantly.
With iRig Stream, it's simple to connect all your audio sources and route them to a streaming or recording application. Send the digital output from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop to iRig Stream, mix it with external audio sources like mixers, DJ decks, keyboards, and more. Add your voice and send all three signals back to your device, to popular applications like Instagram or directly to your built-in camera.
