Top rated Audio interfaces
Here's a ranking of the top rated products in this category. To give you a quick overview, we've also added some key information about the products.
1. 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.
2. ESI Audiotechnik Midimate Ex
The MIDIMATE eX is a straightforward USB 2.0 MIDI interface for Mac and PC, capable of handling up to 32 input and output channels. The MIDIMATE reliably delivers 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. For this purpose, 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 signals received to the MIDI input of your software. If the MIDIMATE is connected to a MIDI input, you can send MIDI data to the connected device using the playback function of your software. The MIDIMATE eX is powered via the USB connection, eliminating the need for an additional power supply. Additionally, the MIDIMATE 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 and Mac OS X.
Details:
- USB MIDI interface
- No driver installation required
- 2 MIDI connectors that can each 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.
3. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 – 4th Generation
The Scarlett 2i2 – 4th Generation Audio Interface from Focusrite is a highly 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 connection to instruments like 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 user-friendly setup and a compact design, this interface is ideal 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.
4. Focusrite Scarlett Solo – 4th Generation
The Scarlett Solo – 4th Generation Audio Interface is the ideal solution for all songwriters seeking 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.
5. Elgato Wave XLR
Wave XLR is a compact USB interface that gives your microphone superpowers – with features you won't find in standard audio interfaces. These include special Clipguard technology to prevent distortion, a capacitive mute button, and direct integration with the custom Wave Link mixing software. You can even swap out the front panel and knobs.
If you don't want to give up your XLR microphone anymore, Wave XLR is just right for you, as this compact USB interface empowers your microphone.
Wave XLR combines several devices into one and offers features that you won't find in regular audio interfaces: special anti-distortion technology, a capacitive mute button, direct integration with the custom mixing software Wave Link, and an interchangeable front panel.
Give your microphone the necessary boost without an external preamp. With ultra-low noise gain of up to 75 dB, you can be heard loud and clear even with a notoriously insensitive microphone, while 48 volts of phantom power brings condenser microphones to life.
Now you don't have to keep an eye on the level while you're live, nor try to correct distorted audio in post-production. When the input level peaks, the special Clipguard technology immediately routes the sound to a second, lower-volume signal path. This way, you get clean audio – no matter how loud you scream.
6. IK Multimedia iRig HD 2
With the iRig HD 2, IK Multimedia has launched the next generation of the best-selling digital guitar interface, the iRig HD. This 24-bit/96 kHz audio interface continues IK Multimedia's mobile success story for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac, and PC. Like its predecessor, the iRig HD 2 features a high-quality, adjustable instrument/HiZ input (6.3 mm jack) and delivers impressive sound quality for practicing, performing, or recording; anytime and anywhere. New features include a headphone output (3.5 mm jack) with volume control, as well as 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 performance. 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 attachment to a standard microphone stand are included in the package.
7. 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.
8. PreSonus Studio 24c
The compact and robust Studio 24C audio interface from Presonus is the perfect solution for home recording, guitarists, singers, and podcasters. The two combo jacks allow for the connection of XLR or TRS plugs, making it easy to connect a microphone and an instrument. With the MIDI connections of the interface, countless application possibilities open up with the recording software Presonus Studio One (Artist Version) available for download. With a resolution of 24 Bit/192 kHz and low-noise XMAX-L microphone preamps, the Studio 24C delivers excellent sound quality. Its extremely sturdy metal housing makes the interface ideal for on-the-go use. Power is supplied via USB, eliminating the need for an additional power supply.
Details:
- 2 Mic/Line/Inst combo jacks (XLR/TRS)
- 2 low-noise XMAX-L microphone preamps
- Switchable phantom power (48V)
- TRS inputs switchable from instrument (high impedance) to line
- Digital converter with 24 Bit / 192 kHz resolution
- Headphone output with volume control
- Main outs L/R 6.35 mm TRS
- MIDI IN/OUT
- Full metal housing
- Power supply via USB
- Includes DAW software Studio One Artist Version as a download
- Includes USB-C to USB-C and USB-C to USB-A cables.
9. Roland Um-One Mk2
Compact, practical, and fast, the affordable UM-ONE mk2 offers powerful FPT processing for minimal latency and precise timing. It is powered via USB and is compatible with Macs, PCs, and now also with the iPad using an additional Apple Camera Connection Kit. Features include data flow indicators for both MIDI In and MIDI Out, convenient integrated USB and MIDI cables, and USB power supply.
10. TIE Studio MIDI 1i1o
The Tie Studio MIDI 1i1o is particularly lightweight and compact thanks 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.
