The 20 Best Audio Interfaces for Music Producers in 2024
“If you had a sign above every studio door saying, 'This Studio is a Musical Instrument,' it would make such a different approach to recording.”
— Briano Eno
Acquiring the best audio interface for your music production needs is no simple task. There are so many options and so many different features to consider, as the features you ‘might’ need in the future will likely evolve.
We’ve put together this guide to help you. Below, you’ll learn about the top 20 best audio interfaces, broken down into categories like price, compatibility, as well as reasons you would and wouldn’t want an interface, plus much more.
We will even teach you how to go about buying an interface based on what stage of music production you are currently in. After reading this guide, you’ll know everything you need to know when it comes to buying the best audio interface for your music.
Real quick; What is an Audio Interface?
Audio interfaces convert microphone and instrument input signals in a way that allows your computer to recognize and process it. It also allows you to use studio monitors and headphones.
Under the surface, it converts the analog signal to a digital signal (A/D) and then back to an analog signal (D/A).
Another benefit is that some interfaces may have better audio quality and hardware compared to the audio hardware/software that comes with your computer. All interfaces plug into your computer with either a Thunderbolt, USB, Firewire or even Ethernet connections.
The first question you should ask yourself is, “What level of a music producer am I?”
You’re a beginner if you’re in your first few years of producing and you’re ready to invest in your first pair of decent studio monitors. You’ve realized that your PC speakers from Best Buy just aren’t cutting it anymore and are eager to start potentially recording some of your own sounds.
You’re an intermediate producer if you’ve owned at least one interface and studio monitor pair for a while now and are looking to upgrade your setup. You’ve made several solid songs and are looking to unmask new levels in your production and recording quality.
You’re an advanced producer if you have produced tons of pro-sounding records and are making an income from your work. You understand that the devil is in the details and that different rooms and gear affect the results of a record. You’ve owned and played with tons of audio gear and want to unlock a new deeper level of fidelity for yourself.
How you should think about buying interfaces (depending on your skill level)
Beginner
If you’re a beginner, it’s best to keep things simple at the start. The best audio interface for you is going to be USB-connected, have 1-2 audio inputs, and two audio outputs for your monitors (Either XLR or ¼ inch audio jack).
Don’t get too technical with it. At this point, you don’t need to worry about the type, quality, and kind of granular details like the pre-amp for instance.
This is going to be your first audio interface and certainly not your last. You will likely grow out of this interface quickly depending on how fast you progress. Our students in the Hyperbits Masterclass progress their skills faster than most producers so we don’t advise them to spend a lot on their first interface.
Intermediate
If you’re an intermediate-level producer, now would be the time to start being more thoughtful about your next interface.
First, ask yourself what your current sticking points have been in your production process. Have you been finding you don’t have enough audio inputs to record everything you need? Are your recordings not coming in at the right quality? Do you want to be able to work at higher audio resolutions (i.e. 48kHz and up)?
In picking the best audio interface for you, you’ll need to pay extra attention to things like the quality of the pre-amps, portability (if you travel), and DSP capabilities for special plugins (like UAD). You’ll also want to pay attention to the build quality as you’ll likely have this interface longer than you would as a beginner-level producer.
Don’t skimp on the price of the interface but also, don’t spend too much. This interface you will also grow out of eventually.
Advanced
If you’re an advanced, pro-level producer, you’ve been around the block before when it comes to audio gear.
The process of finding the best audio interface for you is going to take more time and consideration than ever before. By this point, your budget will be higher and there may be more at stake here when choosing the right interface. What you choose, you’ll have for 5+ years most likely.
You’ll need to think about the needs of your studio and your needs as a producer. Another thing to keep in mind is how the interface affects your workflow. By this point in your career, you’re making an income with your music and time is money.
If your studio has a lot of instruments and mics, it may be more beneficial to get an interface with more inputs so you can spend less time swapping connections. You will also likely want DSP capabilities in your interface based on if you’ve adopted those kinds of plugins into your workflow.
Be extremely thoughtful when making your decision and review all of your options with scrutiny. Only you alone know what the best audio interface is for you. You’re a pro after all.
The Best Audio Interface (By Category)
Now that you have a better idea of what your mindset should be going forward, it’s time we share with you the top 20 best audio interfaces.
While all of the interfaces listed here have a lot of overlap in terms of features, capabilities, and quality, we want to highlight which audio interface surpasses its competition in a practical category.
Knowing your skill level will help you narrow down the best audio interface for your individual needs.
1. Best Budget Interface
This audio interface is simple-looking at first but it packs a punch for the price. Two audio ins and two audio outs, this interface also has connectivity with Apple, allowing you to use it with iPhones and iPads. Audient may have made the best interface at this price point.
Price: $199
PC/Mac Compatibility: PC & Mac Compatible
Number of Inputs/Outputs: 2 Ins & 2 Outs
Max Audio Resolution Capabilities: 96 kHz
Reasons You’d Want It: A lot of power and functionality for the price, Compact design.
Reasons You Wouldn’t Want It: Mic doesn’t work at higher resolutions, Loopback software is sub-par.
2. Best for Recording Bands at Home
PreSonus are veterans in the audio game. This interface has exceptional fidelity and is touted as the “fastest interface on the planet.” Built for recording exceptional audio, it has 8 audio inputs out of the box with an onboard talkback mic. There is even a free app to control the virtual mixer without needing to be in the control room. This just scratches the surface of what this powerful audio interface has to offer.
Price: $999
PC/Mac Compatibility: PC & Mac Compatible
Number of Inputs/Outputs:26 Ins & 32 Outs
Max Audio Resolution Capabilities: 192 kHz
Reasons You’d Want It: Extreme power for the price, Can be added onto as your studio grows
Reasons You Wouldn’t Want It: Isn’t presently compatible with M1 Macs and iPads, Customer support is sub-par
3. Best for Surround Sound
This audio interface is simple-looking at first but it packs a punch for the price. Two audio ins and two audio outs, this interface also has connectivity with Apple, allowing you to use it with iPhones and iPads. Audient may have made the best interface at this price point.
Price: $2,799
PC/Mac Compatibility: PC & Mac Compatible
Number of Inputs/Outputs: 18 Ins & 24 Outs
Max Audio Resolution Capabilities: 192 kHz
Reasons You’d Want It: You get a lot of DSP power for UAD plugins, Analog emulations are the best there is
Reasons You Wouldn’t Want It: Very expensive, Plugins are an additional cost
4. Best All-around Budget Interface
Years ago, this interface might not have met this list. But the newer generations of this product have improved pre-amp and is quite impressive functionality-wise. With sister interfaces with additional ins and outs, this interface is the best all around interface for a tight budget. Beginners, take note of this one.
Price: $180
PC/Mac Compatibility: PC & Mac Compatible
Number of Inputs/Outputs: 2 Ins & 2 Outs
Max Audio Resolution Capabilities: 192 kHz
Reasons You’d Want It: Great recording quality for the price, Rugged and good for travel
Reasons You Wouldn’t Want It: Moving the volume knob can produce crackles occasionally, Pre-amps can be a bit noisy
5. Best for SSL Lovers on a Budget
SSL is an iconic brand in the music industry. Countless hit records were recorded and produced on gear made by SSL. Veteran producers will tout SSL as having a flavor of sound that’s unique and sweet. Normally, you need thousands of dollars to get that prestigious flavor but the SSL 2+ promises to bring that “SSL sound” at an affordable price.
Price: $299
PC/Mac Compatibility: PC & Mac Compatible
Number of Inputs/Outputs: 2 Ins & 4 Outs
Max Audio Resolution Capabilities: 192 kHz
Reasons You’d Want It: Premium build quality, The 4K button adds magic to the sound
Reasons You Wouldn’t Want It: You might not want/need RCA outputs, The warranty is very limited
6. Best for Audio Quality
UAD interfaces are infamous for the quality of their DSP plugins and how well they emulate vintage analog gear. When getting a UAD interface, you unlock a new fidelity to your recordings. The difference between the DUO and QUAD is the QUAD has more DSP power and can run more plugins at once. We recommend the QUAD if you can afford it.
Price: $999 to $1499
PC/Mac Compatibility: PC & Mac Compatible
Number of Inputs/Outputs: 2 Ins & 6 Outs
Max Audio Resolution Capabilities: 192 kHz
Reasons You’d Want It: Very high-quality pre-amp, UAD plugins for analog emulation
Reasons You Wouldn’t Want It: Expensive, Not very portable
7. Best for Recording on the Road
This interface packs a punch. It’s built incredibly well and feels solid when handled. It comes with two Yamaha pre-amps and is great for recording artists who need to get ideas and demos made on the go.
Price: $195
PC/Mac Compatibility: PC & Mac Compatible
Number of Inputs/Outputs: 2 Ins & 2 Outs
Max Audio Resolution Capabilities: 192 kHz
Reasons You’d Want It: Very rugged and good build quality, High quality pre-amps and DSP
Reasons You Wouldn’t Want It: Doesn’t work on MacOS 12 presently, Software support is lacking
8. Best Mid-Priced Interface that Stands Up to Big Dogs
Black Lion made an interface that looks sexy and sounds sexy. It’s a straightforward interface that’s easy to set up and has quality components for decent recording. It comes with Studio One Artist, iZotope Elements, Brainworx bz_digital and Lindell 6X.
Price: $399
PC/Mac Compatibility: PC & Mac Compatible
Number of Inputs/Outputs: 2 Ins & 2 Outs
Max Audio Resolution Capabilities: 192 kHz
Reasons You’d Want It: Comes with free plugins, Rugged and easy to learn
Reasons You Wouldn’t Want It: Size is on the larger side for portability, A little pricey
9. Best Value for New Producers
M-Audio is a staple in the industry known for making reliable and affordable audio gear. The M-Track Solo and Duo are great entry-level interfaces and are designed with new producers in mind. If you just finished our “best DAW for beginners” article, then this interface is likely on your wavelength.
Price: $69
PC/Mac Compatibility: PC & Mac Compatible
Number of Inputs/Outputs: 4 ins & 4 Outs
Max Audio Resolution Capabilities: 48 kHz
Reasons You’d Want It: Comes with a guitar amp simulator and Avid plugins, Amazingly low price
Reasons You Wouldn’t Want It: Not great for high-output dynamic mics, Software and installation isn’t as plug-and-play as others
10. Best Compact Interface for Small or Busy Desks
The Evo 4 is a simple and clean interface that takes up less space than its competition. It’s compact and highly functional with a modern look and a rugged feel.
Price: $129
PC/Mac Compatibility: PC & Mac Compatible
Number of Inputs/Outputs: 2 Ins & 2 Outs
Max Audio Resolution Capabilities: 96 kHz
Reasons You’d Want It: One-dial solution makes it super simple to use, Monitor/mix control works really well
Reasons You Wouldn’t Want It: The front connector for guitar/bass overrides the connector in the back, preventing you from using both at the same time, Having headphones plugged in disables the line/monitor outputs
11. Best-Looking that Still Sounds and Works Great
When you hear the name “Arturia,” you typically think of keyboards and synths. But they make audio interfaces too. Packed with perks, this interface is a great mid-tier interface.
Price: $149
PC/Mac Compatibility: PC & Mac Compatible
Number of Inputs/Outputs: 2 Ins & 2 Outs
Max Audio Resolution Capabilities: 192 kHz
Reasons You’d Want It: Comes with a USB hub, Comes with Analog Lab, NI Guitar Rig LE, Ableton Lite, and more
Reasons You Wouldn’t Want It: Power draw must be 250mA or less from the USB hub
12. Best with Remote Mobile Phone Control
More on the premium side the Clarett+ 2Pre packs a punch. Behind its beautiful red metal finish, there are two high-quality pre-amps that give very very little noise to recordings. With lots of headroom, this interface is best for an intermediate producer who’s trying to level up their fidelity.
Price: $489
PC/Mac Compatibility: PC & Mac Compatible
Number of Inputs/Outputs: 2 Ins & 4 Outs
Max Audio Resolution Capabilities: 192 kHz
Reasons You’d Want It: High quality and clear mic pre-amps, Air transformer input emulation
Reasons You Wouldn’t Want It: The sound quality improvement over the Scarlett isn’t quite worth the price gap, Some compatibility issues with audio drivers on Windows
13. Best Budget interface with an Analog Flavor
Universal Audio just expanded their interface blueprint into dedicated non-DSP versions. We were quite surprised at how well they were able to preserve the analog flavor that their known for without the on-board DSP processors. If you want a UAD interface but have a tighter budget, these are a good solution.
Price: $399
PC/Mac Compatibility: PC & Mac Compatible
Number of Inputs/Outputs: 2 Ins & 2 Outs
Max Audio Resolution Capabilities: 192 kHz
Reasons You’d Want It: UAD quality at an affordable price, Easy to use plus plug-and-play
Reasons You Wouldn’t Want It: DSP emulations are offloaded to your computer's CPU instead of native to the interface, Isn’t the same quality as traditional UAD interfaces
14. Best Pre-amps on a Budget
Onyx is notorious for the mic pres. They have blessed us with this affordable interface that gives us access to this infamous technology. In addition, it’s also compact and portable. If you’re an artist on the road, this is a great option to get the best-sounding demos without having to stop and book studio time.
Price: $179
PC/Mac Compatibility: PC & Mac Compatible
Number of Inputs/Outputs: 2 Ins & 2 Outs
Max Audio Resolution Capabilities: 192 kHz
Reasons You’d Want It: High audio resolution capabilities for the price, Midi input and output ports
Reasons You Wouldn’t Want It: The zero latency controls affect the monitor output, Software lacks features and support
15. Best All-Around for Travel
You either do it now or aspire to be an artist/producer who travels frequently to collab with people around the world. Why let travel be an obstacle to your productivity when you can pick up this mini interface. It works well and packs light so you can virtually set up your studio anywhere in the world.
Price: $229
PC/Mac Compatibility: PC & Mac Compatible
Number of Inputs/Outputs: 2 Ins & 2 Outs
Max Audio Resolution Capabilities: 48 kHz
Reasons You’d Want It: Super compact and crazy portable, Can record two channels simultaneously
Reasons You Wouldn’t Want It: There are tons of better options if portability isn’t your priority, Tech support isn’t great if you run into issues
16. Best Connectivity for the Size
If you’re looking for a compact travel-friendly interface with tons of connectivity options, this is the best audio interface for you. In addition, Arturia has also included a USB hub with this product. With tactical controls and great sounds, this is a solid choice for an interface.
Price: $599
PC/Mac Compatibility: PC & Mac Compatible
Number of Inputs/Outputs: 4 Ins & 4 Outs
Max Audio Resolution Capabilities: 192 kHz
Reasons You’d Want It: Lots of connectivity options, High quality sound for the price.
Reasons You Wouldn’t Want It: Pricey compared to similar competition, Tech support responses can be slow.
17. Best Audio Quality with DSP
This interface is an impressive premium product. Antelope is one of the few companies that make interfaces with onboard DSP processing (like UAD interfaces). This interface can deliver up to 256 FX instances utilizing its internal processors. At no additional cost, you get 36 effects with this interface that consist of preamps, EQs, compressors, and more.
Price: $2,150
PC/Mac Compatibility: PC & Mac Compatible
Number of Inputs/Outputs: 8 Ins & 8 Outs
Max Audio Resolution Capabilities: 192 kHz
Reasons You’d Want It: Crystal clear mic preamps, Small desktop footprint.
Reasons You Wouldn’t Want It: Very expensive for what you get, Software stability can be an issue but updates are rolled out regularly.
18. Best Value Premium Interface
If you’re not in the “professional stage” like I mentioned before, keep scrolling. Or if you’re a gear-head, feel free to stick around and admire this beast of an interface. Steinberg really went OTT (in a good way) making this interface. Tons of connections, latency-free DSP, and even the ability to daisy-chain interfaces make this interface one of the elite.
Price: $2,799
PC/Mac Compatibility: PC & Mac Compatible
Number of Inputs/Outputs: 28 Ins & 24 Outs
Max Audio Resolution Capabilities: 384 kHz
Reasons You’d Want It: Insane performance, Tons of ins and outs.
Reasons You Wouldn’t Want It: Thunderbolt only and doesn’t come with a cable, Front controls are awkward to use.
19. Best for Recording Bands or Small Orchestras Professionally
This interface is a monster. Out of the box, it commonly has 16 ins and outs but can be upgraded 64 ins and outs. It’s the industry leader in AD/DA conversion of any Thunderbolt device. Front touchscreen display and and ultra-low latency. Designed and built in the USA.
Price: $9,295
PC/Mac Compatibility: PC & Mac Compatible
Number of Inputs/Outputs: 32 Ins & 32 Outs
Max Audio Resolution Capabilities: 96 kHz
Reasons You’d Want It: Internal temperature controlled to optimize performance and lifespan, Integrated with Dolby Atmos and Sony 360
Reasons You Wouldn’t Want It: Extremely expensive and overkill for most individual producers, Only specialty stores carry the 32x32 version
20. Best All-Around for those with Deep Pockets
If you’re not looking to record an orchestra but want to still have a large budget for your interface, the Avid HD is the way to go. From the makers of Pro Tools, this interface gives pristine sound quality and supports the most demanding sessions.
Price: $4,999
PC/Mac Compatibility: PC & Mac Compatible
Number of Inputs/Outputs: 32 Ins & 32 Outs
Max Audio Resolution Capabilities: 192kHz
Reasons You’d Want It: Integrates with Pro Tools, You can monitor all ins and outs via the front panel lights
Reasons You Wouldn’t Want It: Very expensive, Avid tech support is lacking
The Best Audio Interface: Next Steps
Now that you know more about audio interfaces, it’s time to take the next step and purchase one. Even if you don’t end up loving your first choice, you can always exchange it for something else. And who knows? With a little bit of research, this article, and some trial-and-error, you may find yourself with an interface that perfectly meets your needs – and sounds great in the process.
Budget Saving Tip: if you buy a new audio interface and find you like it a lot, you can return it and try to find it used on at a discount. The best places we’ve found used gear on are Reverb.com, eBay, Facebook Marketplace and the used department at Sam Ash — the good thing about the latter is that if your local store doesn't have what you're looking for, they can tap into their national database and ship it to you.
Do you have any questions about audio interfaces or music production in general? We're here to help. Just send us a message, and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
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Hyperbits
FOUNDER, HEAD-HONCHO, THE BIG CHEESE
A bit about me in case you're new here: my music has been streamed over 52+ million times.
I've done official remixes for artists like Beyonce, Tove Lo, and Nick Jonas, signed record deals with Universal, Island, and Sony, and worked with brands like Target, Samsung, and Equinox. I've even DJed some of the world's biggest stages, like Electric Daisy Carnival, Terminal 5, Fonda Theater, and Echostage.
If you have questions about music production or the Hyperbits Masterclass get in touch. I'm here to help.
