The Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD is an affordable 4-channel audio interface with a wealth of input/output options. It is a true standout in the sub-$100 market, with its impressive specifications and features. At its core are four combo jack inputs with Midas Designed preamps, which allows for simultaneous recording of up to four sources. Each channel comes complete with dedicated controls that include Pad switches, Line/Instrument switches and Gain knobs. To make monitoring even more convenient, Behringer equipped the UMC404HD with A/B monitor switching, stereo/mono switch and monitor mix - all of which are ideal for auditioning your mixes with different studio monitors. Other noteworthy features include multiple LED indicators and MIDI compatibility. It comes with a suite of recording software and plug-ins that you can use for recording and mixing.

Specifications:

• A/D Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
• Preamp: 4 x Midas Designed Preamps
• Channels: 4
• Inputs: 4 x XLR/TRS Combo, 4 x 1/4" (Inserts)
• Outputs: 6 x 1/4", 2 x XLR, 2 x RCA Stereo, 1 x 1/4" (Headphones)
• MIDI: In/Out
• Power: AC Adapter, USB Bus Powered
• Phantom Power: 48V
• Bundled Software: Tracktion, 150 downloadable instrument/effect plug-ins

With its four dedicated preamps and 4-in/4-out configuration, the Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD simply gives you the best value for your money. And it's not just about feature count, because it continues to gather positive reviews from many users who commend its overall sound and built quality. Many describe the preamp as being very quiet and transparent, with some even describing the sound as comparable to more expensive interfaces. Users who gave their thumbs up include podcasters, voice over artists, guitarists, bassists, keyboardists and other musicians.

There were some users who had to update the driver before getting it to work with their DAW software, so we do recommend downloading the latest drivers from Behringer's website first before setting up the unit. A few users experienced interference issues, probably due to external factors because most users find the UMC404HD to be super quiet.

If you want the best value for your money, or you want to future proof your home studio without breaking the bank, then the Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD is for you.

Focusrite continue their market dominance with the 2nd generation Scarlett series audio interfaces, which includes the immensely popular Scarlett 2i2. This 2nd Gen version features upgraded A/D resolution of 24-bit/192kHz, lower latency, improved instrument input and improved hardware. Having said all that, the Focusrite mic preamp within the unit is still its main standout feature, as it is still highly regarded by many for its sound quality. But it's no longer just great for mics, because the instrument input is improved to handle the pickups of different guitars and basses. This improved capacity for instruments makes it even more viable for home studios. Other features that helped the original Scarlett 2i2 become a top selling audio interface are retained, including its elegant looking red metal chassis, distinct halo indicators for monitoring signal level, and the ability to be powered via USB. The controls are also improved, with a grippy metal gain knob being its centerpiece.

Specifications:

• A/D Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
• Preamp: 2 x Focusrite Preamp
• Channels: 2
• Inputs: 2 x XLR-1/4" combo
• Outputs: 2 x 1/4" (Line), 1 x 1/4" (Headphones)
• Power:

USB Bus Powered,

• Phantom Power: 48V
• Bundled Software: Pro Tools | First Focusrite Creative Pack, Ableton Live Lite, Softube's Time and Tone Bundle, Focusrite Red Plug-In Suite, 2GB Loopmasters samples

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 2nd Gen continues the legacy of its predecessor with its high ratings and many recommendations. Commendations point to its sound quality as its best feature, while others point to its reliability as another strong point. Be it for condenser or dynamic mics, the Scarlett 2i2 got a lot of kudos from satisfied users, which include singers, instrumentalists, podcasters, voice over actors and more. Its elegant appeal also got a lot of thumbs up, with many specifically referring to its distinct red color and halo lights.

There are minor concerns for its instruments input, with some noting that getting it to work properly requires a bit more tweaking than what they wanted.

Being a consistent top selling audio interface for many years, the Scarlett 2i2 2nd Gen is easy to recommend, especially for those who want good sound quality mixed with eye candies.

The ID4 is an audio interface that features Audient's class A mic preamp and JFET circuit packed in a compact unit. As such, it provides all-in-one solution for recording vocals and instruments, two things that most home studios need. And judging by how the Audient ID4 continues to rake in high scoring reviews, they may have found the best balance of feature, price and cost in the ID4. In addition to its two distinct input circuits, Audient equipped the ID4 with essential output options that include 2 x 1/4" outs for stereo monitoring, and two headphone outputs. Other practical features include monitor mixing (input and processed sound), monitor mute and monitor panning. Being class compliant, this audio interface works with popular operating systems, including Apple's OSX and iOS, as well as Windows. Note that this unit is USB bus powered, so it will get the power from your desktop or laptop computer. It can also work with Apple iPad and iPhone, but it requires a powered USB hub to work.

Specifications:

• A/D Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz
• Preamp: 1 x Audient Class A Mic Preamp, 1 x JFET DI
• Channels: 2
• Inputs: 1 x XLR-1/4" Combo (Mic/Line), 1 x 1/4" DI (Instrument)
• Outputs: 2 x 1/4" Monitor, 1 x 1/4" (Headphones), 1 x 1/8" (Headphones)
• MIDI: No
• Power: USB Bus Powered
• Phantom Power: 48V

The Audient ID4 continues to get high scores for its sound and build quality, form users of different backgrounds including singers, instrumentalists, voice over artists, home studio owners and more. According to reviews, sound quality is its biggest strength, while its reliability come second. It also helps that the ID4 is easy on the eyes and compact, making it an inspiring tool to use in the studio or while on the move.

There were a few users who were not too happy with the ID4's mic preamp, but they admit that its mostly just preference. There were also a few who deducted a few points to their reviews because they wanted extra features like MIDI i/o.

If you're looking to maximize your $200 and want no less than what the market rates as the best, then get the Audient ID4.

The Presonus Audiobox 22VSL is a straightforward 2-channel interface that continues to thrive in the entry-level market. At its core is its distinguishing feature, two XMAX preamps that run on 30V power rails, higher than the usual 10V to 18V that other preamps use. This increased voltage results in more headroom and translates into a richer overall sound, that many users approve of. This preamp is paired with a 24-bit/96kHz converter with essential controls for gain, main level and headphones level. It does all this while running on USB 2.0 power, making it viable for both indoor and outdoor recordings.

Specifications:

• A/D Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz
• Preamp: 2 x Presonus Class A XMAX Mic Preamps
• Channels: 2
• Inputs: 2 x XLR-1/4" Combo (Mic/Instrument)
• Outputs: 2 x 1/4", 1 x 1/4" (Headphones)
• MIDI: In/Out
• Power:USB Bus Powered
• Phantom Power: 48V
• Bundled Software: Studio One Artist DAW

The Presonus AudioBox 22VSL continues to get high marks for its ease of use and sound quality. Although there were driver issues in the past, the latest operating systems can now run this audio interface without much issue, so much so that most users commend it for being a true plug and play device. It continues to make positive impressions on bassists, guitarists, vocalists and other musicians, and it is also used for other voice recording.

Here is the kicker though, this audio interface does not accept line level inputs, which means that you can't directly plug-in keyboards, synthesizers and active pickup instruments. Presonus suggest using a Direct Box (DI) which is ironic since it's usually instrument level sources (i.e. guitar, bass) that need DI's. This is somewhat limiting for an audio interface, but it still is a very viable mic/instrument level audio interface, which for many is really all that they need. Also note that Presonus has discontinued the VSL (Virtual StudioLive) control software for all AudioBox units. Thankfully, DAW software and even operating systems now provide the same level of control, so it is not a big deal.

With its impressive sound and build quality, the PreSonus AudioBox 22VSL is highly recommended, especially if you use their Studio One DAW.