Best Cheap Audio Interface Picks for Professional Sound Quality 2023

The Highest Rated Audio Interfaces Under $200

Our audio engineer expertly recommends the best cheap audio interface options on the market, ensuring you get the best quality for your money.

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In the entry-level audio interface market, there's a wealth of affordable options offering top-notch features. This can make it a tad overwhelming, especially if you're new to the world of audio interfaces.

For 2023, we're here to make your decision easier with our expert recommendation, backed by thorough research into the latest reviews, ratings, and our extensive collective experience.

Surprisingly, even budget-friendly audio interfaces now come equipped with high-quality components like A/D-D/A converters, preamps, and headphone amplification, some of which rival pricier gear. While these interfaces may share similar features, each manufacturer's unique technology gives them a distinct sonic character, primarily driven by their preamp tech.

The highlighted devices are USB Audio Class Compliant, ensuring seamless compatibility with major modern operating systems, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Linux, and Android, all without requiring extra drivers. This means your interface remains functional on future platforms even if driver updates become scarce. Additionally, many interfaces offer proprietary drivers for Windows and Mac to unlock enhanced features for those who crave more control.

Just a quick tip for users of older iPad/iOS devices: you may need the Apple Lightning to USB adapter, as iPads usually don't provide enough USB bus power for these interfaces. In such cases, an external power supply or a powered USB hub comes to the rescue.

Here are the best budget audio interfaces out on the market today.

Note: We have separate guides for interfaces with 2 to 16 Channels and for iPad interfaces.

The Best Cheap Audio Interfaces

The Best Audio Interfaces Under $100

Behringer U-PHORIA UMC202HD - Best Budget Audio Interface

92
GEARANK

92 out of 100. Incorporating 6600+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price: 

$89
Behringer U-PHORIA UMC202HD 2-Channel USB Audio Interface
At publication time, this was the Best Audio Interface Under 100.

Cons

  • Uses USB type-B, an older standard than type-C

Pros

  • Smooth and clean MIDAS preamps - especially great for vocals
  • Solid metal enclosure and good feeling knobs
  • 24-bit/192kHz resolution often reserved for higher priced interfaces

There's a new trend of adding console-level preamps on affordable audio interfaces. And Behringer quickly caught up thanks to their acquisition of MIDAS in 2009.

While it may not be as big of a household name as SSL or Neve, MIDAS has made recording consoles for decades—even Behringer's flagship Digital Mixers, like the X32, feature preamps designed by MIDAS.

MIDAS' expertise and tonality have been adapted to interfaces like the Behringer U-Phoria UMC202HD.

The tonality of the MIDAS preamps is similar to the color of API consoles and preamps. For the unfamiliar, the tonality feels smooth and clean in contrast to the sheen of Neve and the grit of SSL.

Paired with studio-grade 24-bit/192kHz resolution converters, the UMC202HD provides outstanding recording for the buck. The onboard MIDAS preamps amplify vocals with depth and dimension.

The build quality of this Behringer Audio Interface was a pleasant surprise, too. I didn't expect a good metal enclosure and solid-feeling knobs at this price point.

The USB jack is a weak point in an otherwise solidly built interface. Newer interfaces have begun adapting USB-C as a standard jack.

The Behringer UMC202HD audio interface is an excellent quality yet affordable pick. Especially if you consider that it uses tech developed by long-time console maker MIDAS. And it also helps that it is built well, which is a big bonus at this price point.
It is one of the good budget-friendly audio interfaces for podcasting. And thanks to its mobile-friendly profile, it is an excellent audio interface for Macbook Pro, iPads, and other laptops and mobile devices.
If your Home Studio Setup is budget is limited but you still want to maintain raw recording tonality without compromise, this affordable but powerful audio interface is for you.

Tech Specs

  • A/D Resolution: up to 24-bit/192kHz
  • Preamp: 2
  • Channels: 2
  • Inputs: 2 x XLR/TRS Combo
  • Outputs: 2 x 1/4", 1 x 1/4" (Headphones)
  • MIDI: None
  • Power: USB bus powered
  • Phantom Power: +48V
  • Bundled Software: Tracktion DAW and 150 downloadable instrument/effect plug-ins

Rating Source Highlights

Website Source *Rating Value
YouTube Hardwired Review 98/100
YouTube Adam Ivy 93/100
YouTube Julian Krause 96/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.

Native Instruments Komplete Audio 2

91
GEARANK

91 out of 100. Incorporating 700+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price: 

$99
Native Instruments Komplete Audio 2 USB Audio Interface

Cons

  • Mic preamps have some self noise
  • Plasticky feel and construction

Pros

  • Highly generous software bundle - almost everything you need
  • Software and hardware easy to get up and running
  • Well placed, prominently visible VU meters

For this Edition, the Komplete Audio 2's price went low enough to get featured in the sub $100 segment. This means you're getting even more value for the money with this unit.

Here's the scenario: You're inspired to start music production after being fascinated by the music production process or absorbed into a genre you want to make yourself. You look up tutorials on making music, see these producers with a massive collection of virtual instruments and plugins, and run them on professional-looking DAWs.

Software is a significant barrier to entry into music production that quite a few people want to pursue. Electronic music makes use of these virtual instruments and plugins for their sound. That said, even the best audio interfaces often include essentials, such as a watered-down DAW and some rudimentary plugins.

Many USB audio interfaces come with bundled software, but Native Instruments' Komplete Audio 2 interface feels more like a software package with a free bundled interface.

On the hardware, the Komplete Audio 2 sports two combo XLR jacks with line / instrument switches. This enables recording with a stereo pair of microphones or stereo out from keyboards.

It also includes a direct monitor blend knob to tweak the signal you hear between input and playback. A large volume knob sits on top of the interface.

A high visibility VU meter up top lets you see how much gain you run your inputs with.

It is an incredible value package that includes plugins and virtual instruments, effects, and amp simulations. This is great for those who want a complete software suite right out of the box without purchasing anything else.

While the mic preamps may be slightly noisy, they are generally suitable for most applications. Enclosed in plastic, worrying about long-term durability wouldn't be irrational.

While the mic preamps may be slightly noisy, they are generally suitable for most applications. Enclosed in plastic, worrying about long-term durability wouldn't be irrational.

Tech Specs

  • A/D Resolution: Up to 24-bit/192kHz
  • Preamp: 2
  • Channels: 2
  • Inputs: 2 x XLR-1/4" combo (mic/line/Hi-Z)
  • Outputs: 2 x 1/4" TRS, 1 x 1/4" Headphone
  • MIDI: No
  • Power: USB bus powered
  • Phantom Power: +48V
  • Bundled Software: Ableton Live 10 Lite, Maschine Essentials, Komplete Start

Rating Source Highlights

Website Source *Rating Value
MusicRadar Jon Musgrave 90/100
MusicTech Andy Jones 90/100
AudioTechnology Rob Holder 92/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.

The Best Audio Interfaces Under $200

Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen - All-rounder Best Budget Audio Interface

94
GEARANK

94 out of 100. Incorporating 26700+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price: 

$130
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface

Cons

  • Relatively weak headphone amp
  • Air feature raises noise floor and sounds brittle on some mics
  • Headphone and speaker outs share volume control

Pros

  • Lots of gain on tap
  • Includes "Air" feature found on higher-end models
  • Highly popular and proven benchmark compact interface
  • Well-designed transparent preamps - will work well with most mics

Focusrite has become a household name since its compact audio interfaces were introduced. The Scarlett Solo is one of their best-selling and most well-known product lines.

The Solo sports a basic set of outputs: a pair of L/R 1/4" outputs for studio monitors and a 1/4" stereo headphone out.

New for the 3rd gen is the addition of Focusrite Air. Focusrite describes Air as an emulation of their ISA preamp tonality. This follows the trend of adding console functions to a budget USB audio interface.

It adds upper midrange and high-frequency harmonics to my ears on top of your signal. This is great if you're using warmer-sounding microphones and dynamic mics.

Focusrite Scarlett Air
The Scarlett Solo has a new "Air" feature. See more pictures in this Extended Focusrite Scarlett Solo Review.

The Solo shared a similar recording quality to more expensive recording equipment, like my 18i20. I felt the Solo had just a bit more mic gain on tap, enough to drive my Shure SM57 properly without an inline preamp. The 3rd gen Solo was also noticeably quieter with dynamic mics than the 18i20.

With condenser mics, the Solo shines with delicate-sounding vocals with just the right amount of high-end crispness to help a solo vocal stand out from a piano or acoustic guitar instrumental.

The DI tracks are slightly underwhelming for line-in sources and instruments compared to the preamp's performance with vocals. It's alright, but not entirely on par with the dynamics and clarity of other instrument/DI inputs from other interfaces.

I have mixed opinions towards the Solo's "Air" feature. Focusrite describes Air as an emulation of their ISA preamp tonality. It adds upper midrange and high-frequency harmonics to my ears on top of your signal. This is great if you're using warmer-sounding microphones and dynamic mics.

It does have a tradeoff of raising the noise floor a bit and making some mics sound brittle on the high frequencies. Some mics are harder to mix into a full instrumental because the result sounds more "polished." This presents a problem with specific genres that favor more warm-sounding vocal tonalities. In such situations, I deactivate the Air feature.

The "Air" feature, while nice on some mics, has a tradeoff of raising the noise floor a bit and making some mics sound brittle on the high frequencies.

The Headphones and Speaker outs share a volume, so you must turn off your speakers when you want to mix on headphones. The headphone out also could not efficiently drive my 250 Ohm Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro headphones. I recommend headphones of up to 150 Ohms to efficiently drive them with the Solo without distortion.

With the Air preamp feature and additional gain on tap, the Scarlett Solo still earns its way into the desks of tens of thousands of musicians, voice-over artists, podcasters, and streamers worldwide.

It's one of the best budget audio interfaces if you want a compact audio interface for PC and Mac that pairs well with different types of mics. Thanks to its preamp and Air feature, it works well with the most expensive microphones.

Tech Specs

  • A/D Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
  • Preamp: 1
  • Channels: 2
  • Inputs: 1 x XLR combo (mic), 1 x 1/4" (Hi-Z)
  • Outputs: 2 x 1/4" TRS
  • MIDI: None
  • Power: USB bus powered
  • Phantom Power: +48V
  • Bundled Software: Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools First Focusrite Creative Pack, Focusrite Red plugin suite, several more

Rating Source Highlights

Website Source *Rating Value
Gearank Raphael Pulgar 92/100
YouTube Julian Krause 86/100
Guitar Player Matt Blackett 90/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.

Universal Audio Volt 1

94
GEARANK

94 out of 100. Incorporating 350+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price: 

$139
Universal Audio Volt 1 USB-C Audio Interface

Cons

  • Limited 1 Channel Operation
  • Some are annoyed by the driver installation

Pros

  • Outstanding quality and reliability for the price
  • Great sounding switchable vintage preamp Mode
  • Quality preamps can handle gain-hungry dynamics
  • Dedicated volume knobs for the monitors & headphones

Its built-in switchable vintage preamp mode sets the Universal Audio Volt 1 apart. It uses analog solid-state components, including op-amps, to add tube preamp style saturation and clipping to the sound. The voicing it produces mimics the company's 610-mic tube preamp.

This allows for a unique tone-shaping ability you wouldn't usually get from an audio interface. This feature works great with vocals and specific instruments, although it does add a bit of tube noise, as expected from analog equipment.

But since it's switchable, you're not forced to use it. So you will always have the option of basic clean analog to digital conversion or external preamps and channel strips.

Another nifty feature of the Volt 1 is its input metering, which lets you visually monitor input levels. The metering involves two small LEDs, so it's not very accurate, but still useful for single-track recording of vocals and instruments.

Everything else about the Volt 1 is on par with what you'd expect from a single-channel USB interface. The sample rate is good, and the mic preamps are quiet and clean. It has everything a musician needs for quick recordings and can also be a good interface for streaming and broadcasting.

The Universal Audio Volt 1 sports a retro industrial design that looks good in any studio setup. Finally, it is bundled with useful modern software, including Melodyne, Ableton Live, and more.

Its single-channel operation is limiting for those who need to record multiple sound sources. And the driver installation process isn't as smooth as other plug-and-play interfaces.

All in all, the Universal Audio Volt 1 is a good starter audio recording interface. It is also an excellent way to breathe analog life into a digital setup.

Tech Specs

  • A/D Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
  • Preamp: 1
  • Channels: 1
  • Inputs: 1 x XLR combo (mic/instrument)
  • Outputs: 2 x 1/4" L/R
  • MIDI: In/Out
  • Power: USB bus powered / 5V DC power supply (Sold Separately)
  • Phantom Power: +48V
  • Bundled Software: Ableton Live Lite, Melodyne Essential, UJAM, Softube Marshall, Plugin Alliance Ampeg, Relab LX480 Essentials

Rating Source Highlight

Website Source *Rating Value
MusicTech Adam Crute 90/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.

Solid State Logic SSL 2

94
GEARANK

94 out of 100. Incorporating 1100+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price: 

$180
Solid State Logic SSL 2 USB Audio Interface

Cons

  • Springy buttons
  • Would be nice if it had mute buttons

Pros

  • Zero latency direct monitoring
  • Neat connection layout (all at the back)
  • Nice preamp sound, with 4K legacy preamp option
  • Plenty of headroom and gain for low output dynamic mics

Solid State Logic is known for high-quality audio recording components, including consoles and outboard gear. They have since leaped into the entry-level audio interface market and have been having much success with the SSL 2.

Instead of the compact rack profile typical among interfaces, the SSL 2 takes a more modern approach with a tabletop-friendly profile. All the controls and metering are on its inclined top, making it look more like a miniature mixer. This makes the SSL 2 a straightforward audio interface, easy to integrate into modern computer-centric music production and content creation setups.

It also helps that the unit looks good and integrates cleanly, with all the cables plugged into the back. However, this can be an issue if you constantly have to unplug cables for different headphones and instruments.

But it's not just about style because the SSL 2 audio interface ticks every box for functionality and quality. It meets modern-day sample rate and audio quality standards. The controls and metering are very intuitive, much like a mixer.

The 4K Legacy mode also shapes your sound like the SSL 4000 series analog console. It boosts the highs in a musical way, which helps push vocals or instruments up front in a mix. It also adds a warm harmonic distortion that injects old-school personality into your recordings.

The buttons are a bit springy, but they get the job done. And it would've been nice if it had mute buttons.

The Solid State Logic SSL 2 is an exemplary interface for desktop setups. It can cater to the needs of musicians and has enough functionality for basic streaming and podcasting needs.

Tech Specs

  • A/D Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
  • Preamp: 2
  • Channels: 2
  • Inputs: 2 x XLR Combo (Mic/Line/Hi-Z)
  • Outputs: 2 x 1/4" TRS (L/R)
  • MIDI: None
  • Power: USB bus powered
  • Phantom Power: +48V
  • Bundled Software: SSL Production Pack, 3rd Party Bundled Software

Rating Source Highlight

Website Source *Rating Value
Mixdown Mag Sam McNiece 98/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.

Universal Audio Volt 2

93
GEARANK

93 out of 100. Incorporating 375+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price: 

$189
Universal Audio Volt 2 USB-C Audio Interface

Cons

  • Access to the interface control software requires account and login
  • Vintage mode may be too strident with bright mics

Pros

  • Vintage preamp mode adds life to darker sounding voices, mics and instruments
  • Excellent build quality at this price point
  • Versatile monitoring options
  • Top tier software suite included

Universal Audio isn't one to miss out on the cheap audio interface hype. The Volt series is their way of kicking the notch up in quality for interfaces at this price point.

It features a preamp section based on their 610 tube preamp/consoles, famous for records like "Harvest" by Neil Young, "LA Woman" by The Doors, and quite a few mention "Van Halen 1" by Van Halen was recorded on one. With this catalog of hits, it's impossible not to have high expectations about Universal Audio's implementation of the preamp's sound into a compact audio interface.

The chassis combines a powder-coated black lower half and a textured, matte silver upper bout. This combo adds to the premium feel of the unit. The knobs felt smooth and had just the right resistance for finer adjustments. The buttons for phantom power, monitoring, and engaging the vintage mode of the preamps are clear buttons with a raised plastic surround. The buttons themselves illuminate when activated and have a very high-quality, tactile feel that inspires confidence in the long-term durability of the unit.

The XLR combo plugs are made by Amphenol and are also of high quality. The knobs are accompanied by 2 LED lights each to indicate signal and clipping. While the monitor host/direct switch has an indicator for which routing is activated.

The two monitor out jacks are secured at the back with a nut and washer. Compared to Focusrite, for example, where the jacks are made of plastic and soldered into the internals, this feels more solid, and again, it inspires confidence in the long-term durability of the interface. The Midi I/O jacks are standard fare. I want to note the use of a big power switch on the back for such a small interface. All these high-quality parts come together to a whole that I reiterate to be a solidly built interface.

The interface sounded neutral without the vintage mode, comparable to the XMAX Preamps on my Presonus ioStation 24c with slightly extended high frequencies. It's subtle, but I can hear it while recording. However, with the vintage mode on, additional harmonics are added at the upper, mid, and high frequencies. It's not an EQ, by the way. Additional harmonics are a byproduct of circuit design and add more density/smoothness than boosting it with EQ. So engaging upper frequency harmonics is a great option, especially for warmer-sounding microphones like the Rode NT1.

The Vintage Mode paired with a bright mic like the Lewitt LCT 440 Pure could be too strident on the high frequencies, but this is an error of redundancy. It's a good thing that Universal Audio made the vintage mode a toggle because the Lewitt sounded better with it off. Having only the vintage mode on by default would have been a deal breaker.

The Universal Audio Volt 2 is an excellent entry into a market that's already crowded. While it does so without adding too much novelty, the build quality, bundled software, and the preamp design make it a great value. The preamp's richness adds a tonal nuance to those who know what to look for. Get it if you want to get that 610 preamp magic into your mixes without breaking the bank.

Note that this section is taken from parts of my full-review of the Universal Audio Volt 2 audio interface.

Tech Specs

  • A/D Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz
  • Connectors: 1 x USB-C to USB-A cable, 1 x USB Power cable
  • Channels:2
  • Inputs: 2 x XLR-1/4" combo (mic/instrument), MIDI IN
  • Outputs: 2 x 1/4" (L/R), 1 x 1/4" (Headphones), MIDI OUT
  • MIDI: In/Out
  • Power: Bus Powered (dedicated power cable included)
  • Phantom Power: Yes (+48v)
  • Bundled Software:Ableton Live 11 Lite, Melodyne Essential, Brainworx Ampeg® SVT-VR Classic Bass Amp, Softube Marshall Plexi Classic Amplifier, LX480 Essentials, Virtual Drummer DEEP, Virtual Bassist DANDY, Spitfire Audio LABS

Rating Source Highlight

Website Source *Rating Value
Gearank Raphael Pulgar 92/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen - Best 2 Channel Audio Interface for enthusiasts

95
GEARANK

95 out of 100. Incorporating 17400+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price: 

$190
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface
At publication time, this was the Best Audio Interface Under 200.

Cons

  • No MIDI capabilities

Pros

  • Excellent and proven preamps with a lot of gain
  • Sleek, refined and durable build quality
  • "Air" ISA preamp emulation feature a welcome addition

The Scarlett series has long been a darling with the project studio community for its excellent sound quality, solid build, and incredible plugin bundles.

The 3rd Gen release of the line makes minor tweaks that improve the overall capabilities of each model, especially the way they handle high-gain inputs from mics and instruments.

The 2i2 is no exception to these improvements as the unit now includes Focusrite's proprietary "Air" technology from their more expensive ISA series preamps. This improves the basic audio quality of this cheap interface.

The Scarlett 2i2 makes for an excellent first "serious" interface, being the best at this price point for many use cases.

With no compromises made regarding the preamp and signal converters, the 3rd Gen 2i2 is a wise upgrade for small home studios and mobile setups. It is also a good audio interface for podcasts and live streaming. I didn't have access to a USB mixer, but the 2i2 served as a suitable option for my live streaming interface. This setup served me well for a year, and I found no problems. I especially love the visual feedback the ring lights provide.

The headphone output is also an upgrade from the Scarlett Solo. Adjusting the headphone output separately is a major factor in getting this over the Solo.

Not having MIDI is a bit of a letdown but you can always get a separate MIDI interface if you need one later. If you're doing basic recording and streaming, the 2i2's analog inputs are more than enough.

This is THE interface to get if you want pristine recordings for voice, instruments, and more. With the tweaked gain response of the preamp, even the highest output metal pickups get the same red carpet treatment to your hard drive as the nicest vintage T-style guitar.

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen being used for live recording
It is also a handy interface for live recordings.

Tech Specs

  • A/D Resolution: Up to 24-bit/192kHz
  • Preamp: 2
  • Channels: 2
  • Inputs: 2 x XLR-1/4" combo (mic/line/Hi-Z)
  • Outputs: 2 x 1/4" TRS
  • MIDI: No
  • Power: USB bus powered
  • Phantom Power: +48V
  • Bundled Software: Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools First Creative Pack, Red Plug-in Suite, Focusrite Collective access

Rating Source Highlights

Website Source *Rating Value
PC Mag Tim Gideon 80/100
Guitar World Chris Gill 90/100
YouTube Podcastage 90/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.

Things to Consider when Buying a Cheap Audio Interface

How many channels do I need?

Compact audio interfaces are one of the most common music equipment found in home studios. 2 channel audio interfaces and even single-channel ones are good enough for most home recordings because you can record vocals and instruments one by one and mix them later. But if you plan on recording over two sound sources simultaneously, consider those with 4 channels or more.

Input Ports

Most audio interfaces use "combo" inputs, which accept XLR and 1/4" jacks. Since they are essentially 2-in-1 ports, they allow for smaller form factors and help reduce the cost of the product. They also simplify connections for users and allow for worry-free connection of mics and instruments. Some still use traditional separate XLR and 1/4" ports, especially older devices. We have listed the types and number of inputs available for each audio interface in this list for your perusal. Connect a mixer to your USB audio interface if you need to expand your input options.

Instrument Level and Line Level Inputs

This is a topic often neglected by beginners. You should know your Audio Interface and its features. Best if it can handle line level (low impedance) and instrument level (high impedance) sources. Line-level sources include keyboards and other electronic instruments, while instrument-level ports are for guitars and basses with no active preamp. While you can use a DI box if your interface doesn't support the instrument level, it is more convenient to plug straight into your interface. So, if you plan to record multiple instruments and mics, you'll want one that allows for switching the input between mic, instrument, and line levels.

Do note that if you use outboard gear like external preamps, compressors, EQs, etc., you will need to use the line-level input of an interface. This prevents any gain staging issues and keeps the signal clean.

In addition to having a good mic and instrument input options, you should also look for ones with multiple analog outputs.

Mic Preamps and Phantom Power

  • Mic Preamp Quality
    When using Mics, the preamps can play a significant part in the resulting character of the sound. The best audio interfaces have preamps that go for either transparency or character. For versatile home recording use, you'll find transparent ones. These aim to reproduce the sound coming in as accurately as possible. Thankfully, this is what the audio interfaces in this list provide, but others prefer preamps that can subtly color the sound.

    Different audio interfaces from different manufacturers will sound different. They will be subtle and are more evident with more expensive microphones.

  • Phantom Power
    If you haven't yet, you will end up using a condenser mic at some point when recording. These mics typically require between 11V and 48V phantom power to operate, so checking if the audio interface you're buying can provide the required phantom power is imperative.

A/D Converter Sample Rate and Bit Depth

These two parameters determine how much of the analog audio signal is preserved when converting it to digital. The higher the number, the finer the details captured. The frequency range is determined by halving the sample rate (i.e., 48kHz sample rates can capture up to 24kHz in the high frequencies). Bit depth determines how much dynamics in the amplitude of your signal are preserved in the analog-to-digital conversion. While the converters determine the audio's resolution, the recordings' quality and tonality are more affected by other parts of the signal chain coming before it, such as the preamps, cables, and microphones. As a general guideline, the higher the Sample Rate and Bit Depth a device is capable of, the higher its potential to capture better-resolution audio. This is important, especially with storage sizes now growing to accommodate the larger file sizes higher resolution brings.

Computer and iPad Compatibility

It's best to get an audio interface that can work with the widest possible range of operating systems. It also has to be USB Audio Class Compliant to be 'future proof.' Plug-and-Play functionality allows for quick and convenient recordings, whatever the device you're working with.

With this, you won't need to depend on the manufacturer's drivers for it to operate with the broadest range of current and future operating systems.

IOS, Android, and Linux users must look out for this because sometimes drivers can't be used or aren't provided/updated. But even Windows and Mac users can be stranded when a new OS version comes out, and the manufacturer does not make new drivers available.

Proprietary drivers can provide access to extra features. But it's handy to know your interface can keep working long after the drivers have stopped being updated.

If you have an iPad and you want to use it for mobile recording, then consider interfaces that can directly connect with them. You'll need to purchase Apple's camera connection kit (CCK) or Lightning to USB Adapter for USB interfaces. They let you convert regular USB jacks into iPad-compatible ports. Under this setup, you must also be aware of providing power to the interface. The easiest way to find one suitable for the iPad is to read our guide to The Best iPad Audio Interfaces. You'll see a Universal audio interface, which beat out an older M Audio interface.

Power Options

The ability to be powered via USB is a convenient option that many modern-day audio interfaces utilize. While those that use "wall warts" or power adapters are still viable, getting power from the USB is a welcome plus because it can help reduce clutter and allow for mobile use when there is no power outlet to plug into. Some audio interfaces have the option to be powered by regular batteries for even more portability.

Bundled Software and Drivers

You will need a good DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) or recording software for recording to use audio interfaces. Thankfully, cheap audio interfaces are bundled with various useful DAWs, albeit with some limitations. Still, many of these free applications have enough features to handle the recording and mixing needs of conventional music. Note that to get the full functionality of some DAWs, you'll have to pay extra. You may also need other outboard gear with digital inputs and audio equipment.

Cheap Audio Interface Selection Methodology

The first Edition was published in 2015. The current edition was published on October 10 2023.

We first looked at all the best audio interfaces with at least 1 microphone input under $200, which includes single-channel, dual-channel, and four-channel audio interfaces. We ended up with 47 candidate audio interfaces. We then analyzed relevant reviews and ratings, including the most current ones up to October of 2023. For this edition, the number of review sources that we processed reached over 135,000. The Gearank Algorithm processed this staggering amount of data and gave us the rating scores out of 100 we used to narrow the list to just the best among the best. Finally, we divided our recommendations into two price ranges to make it easier to spot those that fit your budget. 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 PulgarRaphael 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 use in my studio includes the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20, Focusrite Scarlett Solo, Samson QH4 Headphone Amp and Cloudlifter CL-1. My mics include Aston Origin, Aston Element, Shure SM57, Rode NT1, Rode PodMic and MXL V67G.

Contributors

Jerry Borillo & Alden Acosta: Research.
Jason Horton: Editing and Illustrating.
Alexander Briones: Supplemental writing & Editing.

Media

Main/Top Image: Copyright © Gearank - photograph of the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen.

The individual product images were sourced from websites, promotional materials or supporting documentation provided by their respective manufacturers except for the additional Focusrite Scarlett Solo photograph which was taken by the author and the additional Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 photo taken by Alexander Briones.

Comments

hi, looking to digitise my

hi, looking to digitise my vinyl.
Would you recommend the Motu over Focusrite for this ? I have a Macboook 2020 with 4 thunderbolts.

Hello,

Hello,

Either would work but check what outputs your vinyl player has. If it only has RCA outs, even a behringer UCA222 would do. But if your player has balanced XLR outs, I'd personally go for the Focusrite. MOTU is great too as the noise floor is better on it so if that's important to you (especially if you have an older vinyl player).

-Raphael

damn all the cons in this

Damn all the cons in this review were explained very well. Good show.

Hi, Matt!

Hi, Matt!

Thanks for the feedback! I'm glad I was able to help achieve some clarity.

-Raphael

I have an old Line6 Toneport

I have an old Line6 Toneport UX2. I was wondering how these compare to the units you just reviewed?

Hi Bob,

Hi Bob,

The Toneport UX2 (and its identical successor, the Studio UX2) was popular in the early 2010s because of it's relatively low price and bundled software (Pod Farm). Mostly metal players picked it up because several popular bands at the time attributed their tone to either the "Big Bottom" model (for a number of British bands) and the "Cali Diamond Plate" model (for mostly American bands).

In our database, the Studio UX2 gets a score of 81 out of 100 as of April 2020; which is par for the course. Though the unit gets good reviews for its easy of access and bundled software, it gets low reviews for its build quality and longevity. Many UX2 users report long term part failure.

For sound quality as a general purpose audio interface, the UX2's preamps just aren't up to par with modern audio interfaces that have higher quality components and circuitry at accessible prices.

My advice: Try it out, and if it still works, I think the Pod Farm software is still available for downloads for legacy users. The Cali Diamond Plate doesn't sound like the Mesa Dual Rectifier it seeks to emulate but it fits well with most mixes.

-Raphael

Focusrite Scarlett - "Some

Focusrite Scarlett - "Some users report crackling and sound loss but comments on these posts point to their computers not being up to spec to handle low buffer size. A tweak in the latency/buffer size settings on the driver fixes most of these issues."

If only it were so simple. I use an 18i20 plus Octopre for 16-track recording. Results are excellent, but I simply cannot use Focusrite for playback at home. I have a powerful desktop rig which should in theory handle the task without breaking a sweat, but despite trying every suggestion I've been able to find, plus contact with customer support, I've given up.

I record on my Focusrites and use a Zoom R8 for playback.

The Scarletts are a nice series but I would not in good conscience recommend them to anybody who wants hassle-free ASIO audio.

Save your money and get the

Save your money and get the cheaper version two inputs AI.You can only record a vocal and a guitar one at the time. You only need 4 or more if you intent to have the whole live band come to your basement and they all plug their instruments into your Au.interface, and then your computer blows up in two minutes.