Best iPhone or iPad Audio Interface - September 2023
Best iPad Audio Interfaces - Lightning Compatible
You're probably wondering: "Can I use audio interface with iPad?" Yes, and you can get one with convenient lightning cable connectivity. Below are the top rated iPad audio interfaces that allow for convenient out-of-the-box use, forgoing the need to purchase USB to lightning adapters separately.
IK Multimedia iRig HD 2 Guitar Audio Interface
Cons
- One trick pony - only for guitar
Pros
- Easy to set up and use - no external power required
- More convenient for guitar than a regular interface
- Turns your iPad into a headphone amp with lots of effects for practicing
When the original iRig hit the scene, it revolutionized guitar tone possibilities. It enabled guitar players to use their mobile devices as music production platforms, effects units, and even as live performance tools.
The iRig HD 2 is the successor to this legacy with an upgraded 96kHz sampling rate and a 1/4" output jack for connecting your virtual rig to a real amp or P.A. system.
When you want to use your iPad just to practice guitar, the iRig is a lot more convenient than setting up a regular interface. But it's not limited only to practice duties, it has a pretty good sound recording to the iPad as well.
Even though it only comes with the cut-down version of AmpliTube, you can still spend hours enjoying different effects through the headphone output. As a bonus, it also works as a plugin for your DAWs like Pro Tools, Reason, Logic, and more.
The combination of the iRig with AmpliTube means you can use your iPad as a versatile guitar headphone amp with more sounds than you typically get from regular ones.
Although I haven't tried this myself, I've even heard good reports about using it live with the iPad acting as an effects unit.
If I had a complaint it would be that it's a one-trick pony, you can use it for guitar but nothing else so it's a piece of gear that's more of a guitar accessory than an iPad device.
The IK Multimedia iRig HD 2 is a great audio interface for guitar-specific uses. With AmpliTube bundled in, the combination gives a lot of freedom for tonal exploration for the tone-chasing guitar player.
Tech Specs
- A/D Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz
- Connectors: 1 x USB Micro-B (also includes lightning cable)
- Simultaneous Channels: 1 x 1
- Inputs: 1 x 1/4" (instrument)
- Outputs: 1 x 1/4" (amp processed/amp thru)
- Features: High-quality, instrument-level 1/4" Hi-Z input jack, Adjustable input gain, 24-bit A/D conversion.
- Power: Bus Powered
- Phantom Power: None
- Bundled Software: AmpliTube SE
| Website | Source | *Rating Value |
| Guitar Chalk | Bobby | 86/100 |
Focusrite iTrack Solo Lightning
Cons
- Needs a separate USB cable for power when used with the iPad
- Gain adjustments are tricky
Pros
- Great for mobile recording - particularly for speech
- Solidly built - it's safe to carry on your travels (reasonable care assumed)
- Perfect for your first 'serious' interface
The Focusrite iTrack Solo Lightning is a versatile iPad audio interface that comes in a mini-rack form factor.
As the label implies, this version comes bundled with a lightning cable. This connects it with the latest iPads and modern iOS devices out-of-the-box.
Note that lightning cables don't provide power so you need a separate USB power adapter. Another issue is that this will not charge the iPad while in use. You don't however need the adapter when running it off your laptop or PC.
The iTrack Solo Lightning is meant for the entry-level market. It's great for recording speech in addition to music demos, which makes it a good piece of podcast equipment to have.
If you're going to record songs to release commercially, then I recommend going for the Scarlett Solo instead. That is, if you don't need the Lighting connection. I prefer the preamps on that model, they also provide more gain.
One thing you'll notice is that gain adjustments can be a bit tricky at first, but that's a non-issue once you've got the settings dialed in just right.
If you're accustomed to the sound of Focusrite preamps and want something portable, the iTrack Solo is a good pick. Even if it's your first or only interface, Focusrite's preamps have a reputation in the industry as being one of the best. If good raw tracks are what you need, get it.
Tech Specs
- A/D Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz
- Connectors: Lightning, USB
- Simultaneous Channels: 2
- Inputs:1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4" Instrument input
- Outputs: 1 x RCA Monitor Outs, 1 x 1/4" Headphones
- Power: USB
- Can charge IOS unit: No
- Phantom Power: Yes
- Bundled Software: Ableton Live Lite, Novation's Bass Station, Focusrite Scarlett Plug-in Suite, 1GB Loopmasters Samples.
| Website | Source | *Rating Value |
| Audiofanzine | mrjason | 80/100 |
Best iPad Compatible USB Audio Interfaces
These are top-rated USB Audio interfaces that can work with the iPad via Apple's Lightning to USB adapter, or Camera Connection Kit. These interfaces work with the iPad because they are USB audio Class Compliant which means they don't need proprietary drivers.
The standard USB adaptors won't be able to charge your iOS device and generally won't supply enough power to these interfaces so they will need a dedicated power supply.
Universal Audio Volt 276 USB-C Audio Interface
Cons
- Takes two USB Ports in use
- "Vintage" mode feels like a gimmick
- Having the comp printed into a recording might not be for everyone
Pros
- 76 Compressor built in is a standout
- Gets you better raw tracks than most interfaces
- Great build quality and aesthetic
- VU meter gives great insight on gain levels
Universal Audio (UA) enters the entry-level audio interface market with the Volt 276, a unit that seamlessly blends style with innovation. The Volt 276 features a striking mid-century design, a built-in UA 1176-inspired compressor, and a UA 610-inspired preamp.
While audio interfaces often aim for a minimalist appearance to keep users focused on their digital audio workstation (DAW), the Volt 276's wooden and metallic aesthetic offers a refreshing departure from the typical tech-centric look in this category.
In practical use, the Volt 276 delivers clean input signals with minimal latency to your DAW, making it ideal for direct electric guitar recording. However, its real standout feature is its very high quality sound, thanks to its vintage preamp and compressor when miking an electric guitar.
These features introduce subtle yet discernible character, making the Volt 276 an invaluable tool for budget-conscious musicians looking to elevate their recordings without overburdening their DAW.
One standout con is having to use two USB plugs. While it isn't a problem when using the power plug with a USB outlet adapter, it limits mobile use. Another con is the vintage mode. It might feel like a gimmick for those who prefer mixing in-the-box or already have good outboard gear going into the interface.
Despite being priced somewhat higher than competitors, the Volt 276's design, user-friendliness, and tone-enhancing capabilities make it a compelling choice for entry-level users seeking an affordable yet powerful audio interface.
Tech Specs
- A/D Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
- Connectors: USB 2.0
- Simultaneous Channels: 2 x 2
- Inputs: 2 x XLR-1/4" combo (mic/instrument)
- Outputs: 2 x 1/4" (L/R), 1 x 1/4" (Headphones)
- Power: USB bus powered / 5V DC power supply (sold separately)
- Can charge IOS unit: No
- Phantom Power: Yes
- Bundled Software: Ableton Live Lite, Melodyne Essential, UJAM, Softube Marshall, Plugin Alliance Ampeg, Relab LX480 Essentials
| Website | Source | *Rating Value |
| Premier Guitar | Charles Saufley | 93/100 |
| Engadget | Terrence O'Brien | 96/100 |
RME Babyface Pro FS 24-channel USB Audio Interface
Cons
- TotalMix Fx might not be for the less intuitive
Pros
- Impressive round-trip time for real-time monitoring
- Great internal routing options
- Top class headphone amplifier
RME's Babyface Pro FS continues to excel in desktop audio interfaces. Initially introduced in 2010 and later updated with the Babyface Pro in 2015, this latest iteration remains faithful to its winning formula while incorporating meaningful enhancements.
The Babyface Pro FS maintains its sleek desktop design, intuitive metering, and user-friendly large dial. Its rugged plastic case ensures durability, reminiscent of industrial tools. Physically, it resembles its predecessor, retaining XLR microphone inputs, line inputs, instrument inputs, headphone outputs, and more.
Under the hood, the Babyface Pro FS introduces the SteadyClock FS circuit from RME's ADI-2 Pro FS. This technology reduces jitter to an astonishingly low level, promising pristine audio quality with minimal noise and distortion. Furthermore, it boasts improved signal-to-noise ratios, enhanced headphone outputs, and reduced input latency.
The headphone amplifier can drive even the most gain-hungry cans—a boon for those using high-end audiophile headphones to mix and master. This makes it great for direct monitoring.
The Totalmix FX, however, is the unit's Achilles heel. It doesn't feel easy to use and might get in the way of those who want a proper plug-and-play solution.
The Babyface Pro FS offers remarkable audio fidelity, output flexibility, and low latency. It is an excellent choice for professionals and musicians who demand top-tier performance from their audio interfaces.
Tech Specs
- A/D Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz
- Connectors:USB
- Simultaneous Channels: 4 x 4 (analog), 8 x 8 (digital)
- Inputs: 2 x XLR (mic), 2 x 1/4" (Hi-Z/line), 1 x Optical Toslink (ADAT, S/PDIF)
- Outputs: 2 x XLR (+4dBu/+19dBu), 1 x Optical Toslink (ADAT, S/PDIF), ,1 x 1/4", 1 x 1/8" (Headphones)
- Power: External
- Can charge IOS unit: No
- Phantom Power: Yes
- Bundled Software: RME TotalMix FX, Total Mix Remote (iOS, Mac, PC), Brainworx Plug-ins, Scuffham S-Gear Amp Collection
| Website | Source | *Rating Value |
| Audio Science Review | amirm | 90/100 |
| Sound On Sound | Robin Vincent | 96/100 |
Things to Consider When Buying an Audio Interface for the iPad
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While many USB audio interfaces can work with the iPad via Class Compliant mode, they need certain accessories to work. They tend to be a bit complicated to setup. There are audio interfaces built to work connecting with the iPad. They sometimes incluide Apple's proprietary Lightning Connectors. They are the best choice if you want to avoid the complications of having to buy adapters, which can help reduce your music equipment clutter.
Note that older iPads use older 30-pin connectors, so be sure to check whether the interface you're buying support these. On the flipside, newer iPads and iPhones now come with a USB C port, so they won't need Apple's proprietary lightning cables. Soon, the best audio interfaces can connect with iPads and iPhones via USB C.
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These are audio interfaces that utilize industry-standard USB drivers to work. They work seamlessly with multiple operating systems, including iOS. While being able to switch between your iPad and your computer is a good thing, they will need you to buy an Apple USB Camera Adapter to connect to the lightning interface on your iPad.
The main accessory people use is Apple's Lightning to USB Camera Adapter or the Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit (for older 30 pin devices). The Lightning to USB 3.0 Camera Adapter offers faster connection, but it's a bit pricier. This adapter does allow you to charge you're iPad while connected to USB which isn't possible with the other two.
Note that USB interfaces generally won't be able to draw enough power via USB port / USB adapter. This means that you may need multiple USB cables to operate the interface and power it up.
See the following section on power consumption.
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The iPad is designed to limit the amount of power supplied to external devices. While this can preserve iPad battery life it also presents challenges for said external devices. This is the reason why most audio interfaces made specifically for the iPad need dedicated power though a few are capable of charging your iPad.
This makes them ideal for long recording sessions. Those interfaces that are 'bus-powered' have to contend with the iPad's limited power. They tend to be small one channel interfaces and features like phantom power are scaled-down, if not turned off. That said, they are the most convenient and portable options you find.
When it comes to compatible USB interfaces connected through a lightning adapter, you will need another supply of power. Interfaces that are USB bus-powered will usually not get enough 'bus power' via the lightning adapter to function. This is where interfaces that can use a dedicated power supply can come in handy.
The solution for interfaces that can only be USB 'bus-powered' is to use a powered USB hub. Although this works it does add another box and cable to your setup which can reduce the portability and convenience of the setup. Check out the video below on how to connect bus-powered interfaces with the iPad:
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The USB audio interface is an integral studio equipment for home and mobile recording. If you're planning to record vocals and other instruments, you'll want one that comes with both 1/4" and XLR inputs. Note that electric guitars, basses, and other instruments need a higher impedance than line-level inputs. Even though they use the same 1/4" connection. So look out for connections or switches labeled 'Instrument' or 'Hi-Z' to see if an interface can handle these properly.
A workaround for this is to use a DI Box before going into the audio interface. Another important consideration is having a 48V phantom power switch. This is the standard when you're planning to use condenser mics. Another workaround is to connect a mixer to your audio interface, this will expand your input options for plugging in more dynamic and condenser microphones.
Some interfaces also provide ADAT connections to allow you to add up to 8 extra tracks via a separate ADAT audio interface.
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Many of today's affordable audio interfaces come with the same mic preamps as expensive audio interfaces. This means that even in the entry-level market, you are getting good sound quality with low Equivalent Input Noise (EIN). These preamps also generally work well with instruments like guitars, bass, and keyboards. This is a big plus for those who prefer real instruments vs virtual instruments. Other specs to watch out for include Bit rate and Sample Rate, as these will impact the resulting sound quality.
You can also expand your inputs and preamp options by using a Mixing Console.
Lightning Compatible Audio Interfaces
Class Compliant USB Audio Interfaces
Power Consumption
Input Compatibility
Mic Preamp Quality
Best iPad Audio Interface Selection Methodology
The first edition was published in 2016. The current edition was published on Sept 29, 2023.
We changed our eligibility criteria and selection methods for this edition with only interfaces priced under $200 being considered. We selected the 2 highest rated interfaces compatible with Apple's Lightning cable and the 2 highest rated iPad compatible USB audio interfaces - while technically any USB class compliant interface can be used with the iPad, we made our own determination as to which non-lightning ones were eligible.
Note that Apple is in the process of switching their devices to USB C. This means that in the future, audio interfaces won't need to be lightning cable compatible to work with the latest iPads and iPhones.
We collected rating and review data from store ratings, forum discussions, user videos, expert reviews and similar feedback sources to process with the Gearank Algorithm to produce the rating scores out of 100 that you see above that were the basis for our selection. During this process we collected data about 52 eligible interfaces from over 59,600 sources. For more information about our methods see How Gearank Works.
About the Author and Contributors
Here are the key people and sources involved in this guide's production - click on linked names for information about their music industry backgrounds.
Lead Author & Researcher
Raphael Pulgar
I've been an audio engineer for 20 years specializing in rock and metal recordings. I also play guitar and produce original music for my band and other content creators.
Some of the recording gear I regularly use in my studio includes the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20, Focusrite Scarlett Solo, Samson QH4 Headphone Amp and Cloudlifter CL-1. My main mics include Aston Origin, Aston Element, Shure SM57, Rode NT1, Rode PodMic and MXL V67G.
Contributors
Alexander Briones: Editing.
Alden Acosta & Jerry Borillo: Product research.
Jason Horton: Editing and Illustrating.
Media
Main/Top Image: Compiled using photographs of Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen, Focusrite iTrack Solo and Universal Audio Volt 2.
The video has been embedded in accordance with YouTube's Terms of Service.
The individual product images were sourced from websites, promotional materials or supporting documentation provided by their respective manufacturers except for the UA Volt 2 Speaker and Headphone Controls which was photographed by the author.
Comments
I'm using Acapella: Music
Submitted by Cindy (not verified) on
I'm using Acapella: Music Collab App from Mixcord on a 2020 iPad Pro for recording my cello pieces. I have an external USB Apogee mic and 1/4" headphones. I can't find an interface that meets all these pieces. The recent one I purchased did not power up my mic. Any help would really be appreciated. Thanks. Cindy
As a result of our August
Submitted by Jason Horton on
As a result of our August 2022 Edition being published, and particularly due to the impact of the new $200 price limit, the following interfaces came off the recommended list above:
We've removed the Rode i-XLR
Submitted by Jason Horton on
We've removed the Rode i-XLR from the recommended list above due to a lack of availability.
Publication of our September
Submitted by Jason Horton on
Publication of our September 2021 Edition resulted in the following interfaces coming off the recommended list above:
We've removed the iZotope
Submitted by Jason Horton on
We've removed the iZotope Spire Studio from our recommended list above due to it being discontinued.
Our October 2020 update
Submitted by Jason Horton on
Our October 2020 update resulted in the following interfaces coming off the recommended list above, but you can still see our analysis of them:
Hi all,
Submitted by Chris (not verified) on
Hi all,
I’m new to the digital recording game - playing massive catch up game here.
What digital audio interface works with the iPad Pro 2018 (USB C) without the need for first installation on a regular MAC OS first? (as the Focusrite 8i6 that i bought requires)
I’m looking for something that would be able to multi track at least 2 tracks live hopefully both with powered XLR inputs as well as 1/4 inch instrument inputs and your usual monitoring outs and MIDI.
Is there any product that does all that with good quality pre amps and low latency for the iPad Pro 2018?
I am currently researching:
Yamaha AG06
Steinberg UR22 Mk2
Audient ID4
If anyone has a great piece of gear to recommend that would new fantastic.
Failing that..
Can DAWs like the Focusrite that initially need to be installed on a MAC OS, can they then operate on an ipad without the need for a permanent desktop/laptop MAC OS to be connected to?
I hope that makes sense and thank you
Chris
My Roland Duo Capture does
Submitted by John (not verified) on
My Roland Duo Capture does everything you want. It’s also the only interface I know that is battery powered. 2x XLR with 48v (from 3xAA batteries!) ¼ phones jack, MIDI in/out, switchable impedance. Needs a lighting to USB adapter but is perfect with GarageBand.
Look at iConnectAudio4+:https
Submitted by Peter (not verified) on
Look at iConnectAudio4+:
https://www.iconnectivity...
I've had great luck with this for years.
And if $ isn't too big a barrier, the Apogee Duet should be on the list. https://apogeedigital...
As a result of our October
Submitted by Jason Horton on
As a result of our October 2019 update the following interfaces came off our recommended list but you can still see our analysis of them:
Bacon Sandwich! The irig hd
Submitted by OneEyeGringoJoe (not verified) on
Bacon Sandwich! The irig hd 2 is NOT mobile friendly. You cannot output through ipad speakers, headphones or external amp only. And, for me, it's a major complaint. So, there you go, at least 1 major complaint for the irig HD 2...
I'd like to use my Ipad with
Submitted by Darwin Holt (not verified) on
I'd like to use my Ipad with my guitar so thinking . . . Xvive wireless from guitar to "some interface device" to Ipad through a lightning cable. Can I then use bluetooth headphones?
Please suggest a method so that I'm "wireless/bluetooth" to my Ipad
Thank you
Does the new iPad Pro’s
Submitted by Dave Bird (not verified) on
Does the new iPad Pro’s rumoured USB-C connection make hooking up my audient ID4 an even more attractive option compared to recording separately with say the Zoom F4?
I'd say that's partly a
Submitted by Jason Horton on
I'd say that's partly a matter of personal preference and what kind of recording you're doing.
For example the Zoom F4 is good for field recordings when you're shooting videos, would you be comfortable using an iPad Pro on location?
If you mainly intend to record music, then in the long run you'll find using a good interface like the ID4 in conjunction with software will make recording, editing and mixing both more convenient and flexible.
Nice work here, thank you.
Submitted by Will (not verified) on
Nice work here, thank you.
I imagine the list is missing iConnectivity's iConnectAudio4+ interface because of some bad reviews (~68% on amazon and sweetwater, though most are 5-star on both...) but wonder if should get an "Honorable Mention" or "YMMV" slot at the bottom of this list because of its particular feature set for iOS musicians. In addition to regular 4 channel audio and MIDI IO... It's Lightning Compatible. You can plug two iOS devices and a computer in at the same time. It will actually charge the iOS devices while in use. You can route audio and MIDI back and forth between any of the connected devices internally. It has a USB host port which can be connected to a hub allowing for up to 8 additional USB devices to be hooked up.
The preamps ain't Apogee or RME but they're plenty good and certainly on or above par with the other items listed here.
Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with iConnectivity in any way other than I gave them money and love the interface. :)
iConnectivity is very
Submitted by Jason Horton on
Thank you Will for both your suggestion and for stating your reasons so clearly.
iConnectivity is a very reliable brand when it comes to MIDI and they dominate the recommendations in our guide to The Best MIDI Interfaces.
Also, the iConnectAudio4+ (rating info) has some serious supporters in addition to you including; Music Radar - Jono Buchanan and Ask Audio - Matt Vanacoro.
However, a vast number of individual users have given it a rating equivalent of well less than 4 stars in their reviews and comments and that has dragged down the overall rating for the iConnectAudio4+. Alexander, the lead researcher and author of this guide, informed me that his investigation showed there were a large number of plug-and-play / compatibility issues, meaning that if it worked it was great, but for those that had problems getting it working, well - they gave low ratings in response.
Thank you again for the suggestion, however until solutions to the compatibility issues are reflected in user experiences, we won't be comfortable giving it a featured position in this guide.
Wow, what compatibiity issues
Submitted by Peter (not verified) on
Wow, what compatibiity issues?
I've used the iConnectAudio4+ for years and have had no problems at all. I clean install macOS every year and update iOS as well. Never a problem.
Great flexibility, can record to Mac and/or iOS (as a back up) simultaneously (but never needed it). And as stated, it powers the iPad while it is recording. Great device. I wish they made one the didn't need to be plugged in.
It seems like people thought
Submitted by Kareem (not verified) on
It seems like people thought it was plug and play, but the instructions require a proper setup first. There is an app in the App Store that can be used for the fairly simple setup and then it’s good to go!
I use the apple composite A/V
Submitted by JOE (not verified) on
I use the apple composite A/V cable and a 30 pin/lightning convertor to run audio into my mixer. The A/V cable has L and R stereo RCA out that sends the line level audio to my mixer. It also has a USB in the same bundle. Connecting that to power via an AC transformer allows line level sound and charging simultaneously. Note that the ipad volume controls will not function in this setup. I adapt the cables to 1/4" for insertion into the mixer.
In response to the power
Submitted by Clay Walbert (not verified) on
In response to the power consumption part more specifically that video about how to using powered bus hubs. Couldn’t you in theory just plug the interface and wall outlet into the camera adapter. And then obviously the camera adapter into the iOS device. By passing or simply not using the usb powered hub?
Anyone tried connecting
Submitted by Tarun Daodat (not verified) on
Anyone tried connecting behringer umc204hd to iPad with lightning camera adaptor and made it work to send audio from interface to iPad in garage band?
I ended up buying a Roland
Submitted by Daniel (not verified) on
I ended up buying a Roland Duo Capture EX, that works fine with ipad/iphone as well with PC.
I am thinking about to buy a
Submitted by Daniel (not verified) on
I am thinking about to buy a Behringer UMC 204HD but I would like to know if it can be connected to iPhone 6S instead of iPad. For example i would like to record a video from my iPhone Camera but audio from my condenser microphone MXL/990 plugged into UMC 204 HD and connected to iPhone via CCK cable. Because if it does not work I will buy a iRig pro Duo.
Tks
I am actually irritated at
Submitted by Dan E (not verified) on
I am actually irritated at the lack of research and incompleteness of this article. None of Presonus’s iOS interfaces are represented here. In my opinion, they are hands down the best mobile interface. They are high quality I/O converters, lightning compatable, and will trickle charge. I do not represent, work for, or am endorsed by Presonus. I am a musician hobbyist, with a passion for great gear.
Hi Dan,
Submitted by Jason Horton on
Hi Dan,
I can understand you making the mistake of thinking we haven't researched PreSonus audio interfaces in detail, because you probably didn't realize you could have looked that information up in our Music Gear Database.
Here are several PreSonus interfaces that have been placed onto short-lists for detailed analysis when we have researched various audio interface categories - as you can see the PreSonus AudioBox iTwo simply doesn't have high enough ratings for us to recommend it at this time.
Jason.
No mistake. Please allow me
Submitted by Dan (not verified) on
No mistake, Jason. Please allow me to explain. Based on the Gearank article you sited, the iTwo is ranked 83 with over 3x the amount of sources as the top listed lightning compatable interface. The iOne is an even closer competitor, at a lower price point with more features. Furthermore, I don’t know where your “lack of ratings” is coming from. Gearank’s OWN RATING SYSTEM invalidate your statement. Since the inception of gearank’s article in early 2016, the Presonus ratings for their iOS devices have greatly increased on respectable user ranked based platforms, specifically the iOne which has more reviews than the top competitor. My position is firm. I continue to find fult in this incomplete article. I am simply stating the facts. This article calls for an update. I find the “update” earlier this year to be partial.
Hi Dan, you are clearly very
Submitted by Jason Horton on
Hi Dan, you are clearly very passionate about interfaces from PreSonus and that's a good thing because if everyone had the same opinion on everything then life would be boring and music would be dull.
What I meant about the ratings was that the iTwo has lower ratings than the ones we recommended - that was the same for the iOne which didn't make it onto our short-list because a quick analysis showed the ratings would come out too low for us to recommend it before we did the extra work of publishing a rating for it.
Keep in mind that the ratings we publish are a statistical measure of the overall market satisfaction with a product and as a result some of the sources we have used will have higher ratings while others will have lower ratings for a single item. If you have written reviews, posted forum comments or rated those interfaces (on sites other than Gearank.com) then it's quite likely that your opinion has contributed to the ratings we publish.
Please feel free to post a follow-up and tell us what those respected sources are that you mentioned, and if by some chance they aren't already in our sample set, I'll ensure they are considered next time we update our recommendations.
Haha Dan slinks away, perhaps
Submitted by Tom (not verified) on
Haha Dan slinks away, perhaps reflecting on his unnecessarily outraged postings.
I am wanting to do a Podcast
Submitted by Lenny (not verified) on
I am wanting to do a Podcast using
Garageband and want an option for a 3rd mic. Would the Behringer UMC404hd connect the same way? Also in Garageband would it be recorded as one track or separate for each mics I have? Thanks!!
The Behringer UMC404HD
Submitted by Jason Horton on
The Behringer UMC404HD connects the same way as the Behringer UMC204HD above which means you also need a Lightning to USB Adapter (link to Sweetwater).
It will also let you record with up to 4 mics at the same time with each mic being recorded to a separate track.
Follow up question regarding
Submitted by Lenny (not verified) on
Follow up question regarding above mentioned products. Is there a way to connect a cell phone to the 404HD to do interviews?
I haven't done this myself,
Submitted by Jason Horton on
I haven't done this myself, but cell phones typically have a jack for plugging in headsets, usually earbuds with a mic, and you could plug that into any audio interface including the UMC404HD.
You will need an adapter to convert the output from your phone, typically a 1/8" TRRS (Tip Ring Ring Sleeve) socket, to a 1/4" TRS (Tip Ring Sleeve) to plug into your audio interface. Different phones can have different TRRS configurations so you'll need an adapter that's specific to your phone.
Thanks again, Jason!
Submitted by Lenny (not verified) on
Thanks again, Jason!
Hopefully last question. I
Submitted by Lenny (not verified) on
Hopefully last question. I bought the UMC404HD, connected to iPad and use Garageband. Recording works well but I cannot hear what I have recorded on playback through the headphones connected to interface. Thoughts on how to correct?
Hello Lenny,
Submitted by Alexander Briones on
Hello Lenny,
Have you ensured that the Phones knob is set correctly on the interface? Also if you want to use the interface as your playback, you'll have to set the audio output accordingly within the app. Hope this helps!
Thank you very much for your
Submitted by Lenny (not verified) on
Thank you very much for your assistance, Jason!
Today we've removed the
Submitted by Jason Horton on
Today we've removed the Focusrite iTrack Dock from our recommendations above due to a lack of availability.
Have just bought the UMC204HD
Submitted by AjWilliams (not verified) on
Have just bought the UMC204HD and plugged it into my iPad Pro 10.5” using the Apple lightning to USB 3 adapter which has both USB and lightning sockets so you can supply power at same time. It powered up the UMC204HD and the iPad recognised it immediately, no warnings. Opened Auria Pro, all working perfectly (still had to set the iPad volume first, as reported). The iPad was charging as well. Don’t know if there’s anything different with the iPad 10.5 like if it has more power ability but this is perfect for me. Don’t need a powered usb hub, no mess of excess cables. Happy bunny, me!
I know FocusRite doesn't make
Submitted by brothaROD (not verified) on
Two questions:
1) I understand that FocusRite doesn't recommend the 'bigger' iPad Pro users connect to this via the adapter, but what defines 'bigger'?
2) If 9.7" is too big, I can't use this, which begs the question: What else out there is compatible AND pro-level quality for a 9.7" iPad Pro?
Have you seen the DPA d:vice?
Submitted by Jeff Smith (not verified) on
Have you seen the DPA d:vice? That thing is 96k 24 bit and bus powered 2 condensers. And it’s DPA, their mics are the best in the world!
I'd like to find out is if
Submitted by Manila Rubato (not verified) on
I'd like to find out is if these audio devices allow song cueing for DJs. Many iPad DJ apps allow you to cue up / listen to song on the headphones separately from the main - but unfortunately it seems like lot of the good iOS compatible audio hardware doesn't support this feature.
(Mainly just need an audio interface without silly turntables on them)
Have you checked Numarks
Submitted by Steve (not verified) on
Have you checked Numark's DJIO2?
Get the Zoom U-24. Works
Submitted by LG78 (not verified) on
Get the Zoom U-24. Works great as a USB/battery-powered 2-channel audio interface, and works great as a stand-along mixer, mic preamp and DJ cueing interface. It can't understand why it's not on this list. Best product I've ever bought.
The Zoom U-24 did not have
Submitted by Jason Horton on
The Zoom U-24 didn't have sufficient ratings to make it onto our short-list when we did the research for this guide.
I've had a quick look at the latest ratings and written reviews are mostly positive so it might make a good DJ interface.
Audio interfaces with three
Submitted by Alexander Briones on
Audio interfaces with three or more output channels should be compatible with cue mixing. Three because you need two channels for stereo output, and one (or two for stereo) for the headphones. This should work if the DJ app lets you send the cue and main audio to separate output channels.
The Behringer U-Phoria UMC204HD has four output channels and is very affordable. You can also look at our multi-channel audio interface guide for more options.
Hi.
Submitted by Flavio (not verified) on
Hi.
Any interface for iPad which offers 8 analog outputs?
Thanks,
Flavio.
meanwhile there is a 'bus
Submitted by ingoz (not verified) on
Meanwhile there is a 'bus powered' apple usb camera adapter you can use in connection with audio interfaces. I do this. Works well.
I'm noticing there arn't any
Submitted by Teddy (not verified) on
I'm noticing there arn't any two-channel bus powered interfaces on this list. Are there any out there? I'm at the end of my wits looking for one.
Presonus iTwo is the way to
Submitted by Dan E (not verified) on
Presonus iTwo is the way to go.
It might be the case that IOS
Submitted by Daniel Barnett on
It might be the case that IOS does't provide enough power for a good two-channel microphone interface via the connection. A few years ago they reduced the power available to USB devices via the adaptor and they don't publicly specify how much power is available for lightning / 30 pin connector.
The only IOS bus powered interface on this list is the Shure MVi which is mono. The best option to get stereo may be to go for something that can be battery powered like the Roland Duo-Capture EX.
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