Best 8 Channel Audio Interfaces

Top 10 Best 8 Channel Audio Interfaces (March 2024)

The Best 8 Channel Audio Interfaces (March 2024)

The best 8 channel audio interfaces offer fantastic opportunities to record high quality audio from several sources with minimal latency.

Audio interfaces range from large 'rack' styled devices through to pocket sized incredibly compact and durable audio interfaces. Some come with full colour LED/LCD displays for input and output levels, others offer portability by being powered by batteries.

Whether you're looking to record a keyboard, guitar or vocals, the best way to setup your recording station is to plug into your computer and make tracks via an 8 channel audio interface. Whatever type of audio interface you're looking for we've tried to find the interfaces with the best features. While still being considered a great eight channel audio interface.

Don't need 8 channels? Check out these alternatives.

The Best 8 Channel Audio Interfaces Buyers Guide (March 2024)

  • 1. Universal Audio Apollo x8 Thunderbolt
  • 2. RME Fireface UC
  • 3. Presonus Quantum 26x32 Thunderbolt 2
  • 4. MOTU 828es 28x32
  • 5. M-Audio M-Track 8X4M Audio Interface
  • 6. Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic
  • 7. MOTU Ultralite AVB USB iOS Interface
  • 8. Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 with Pro Tools
  • 9. PreSonus Studio 1824 Audio Interface
  • 10. Tascam US-16x08
Universal Audio Apollo x8 Thunderbolt Image

Universal Audio Apollo x8 Thunderbolt

  • ✔ Record with near-zero latency
  • ✔ Easily connect to pro-level studio gear
  • ✔ Includes Power Supply
  • ✔ Track and mix with powerful HEXA Core processing

The Apollo offers a huge improvement on Universal's audio interface predecessors.

Universal Audio Apollo x8 Thunderbolt - Read Review See The Latest Price On Amazon Now

The incredibly designed Apollo 8 from Universal Audio is a phenomenal rack-mount interface. A strong contender for best audio interface. Its ability to reach a high level of dynamic range allows for extreme clarity, depth, and intimate accuracy on any recording. With plenty of connectivity options, it’s possible to chain a few of them together. In the attempt to find the most optimal sound recording experience.

If you’re looking for create professional sounding recordings one thing is for sure. You’re going to require a professional industry leading audio interface. Something that will perform with the precision and stability needed for larger more demanding sessions. Cue in the Avid HD I/O. A high-performance Pro Tools HD|Seris 8 x 8 x 8 analog and digital audio interface. One that’s designed to completely integrate with Pro Tools HD|Systems. The interface features premium A/D and D/A conversion and advanced circuitry. Giving you pristine sound quality and clarity and the lowest possible latency.

The Apollo offers a huge improvement on Universal’s audio interface predecessors. HD I/O features premium A/D and D/A conversion. Allowing you to experience improved audio fidelity and a sweeping dynamic range. Not to mention ultra-low jitter and the lowest possible latency in your recording sessions. With specific configurations, you can make use of built-in sample rate conversion. As well as a soft clip tool for hassle-free recording.

The Apollo I/O is delivered in three arrangements, so you have the option of picking the interface that best fits your connectivity needs. Additionally, you can increase your digital or analog I/O. By simply installing an HD I/O option card into one of the unused bays. You can install a single option card in HD I/O 8x8x8. Or a maximum of two additional cards in HD I/O 16×16 Digital. Although the HD I/O 16×16 Analog arrives with the max number of four cards, you can optimize your I/O by switching any card.

The Apollo audio interfaces completely integrate with Pro Tools|HD. You can achieve high levels of dependability, performance, and command of your outputs, inputs, and routing. Straight from within your Pro Tools interface. You’ll also experience an increased production quality and improved workflow fluidity than with any previous interface. If you desire to use your interface with Pro Tools| HD and alternative DAW software, you’re able to do so with ease.

Finding a great audio interface will improve the capability of your production setup and the quality of your sound. Let’s recap how you should choose the correct mac audio interface thats right for you. Start by gaining a general understanding of how you would want to connect your setup. Then consider the live instruments that you will be using. There are lots of audio interfaces on the market that are affordable, durable and support a wide array of amazing features that will get you on track to capture your required sound.

Desktop compatible interfaces are a great option for Entry and Mid-Level Producers. Rack-mounted interfaces are perfect additions to Mid-Level and Pro-Level producers. Producers who have vast audio production knowledge and are looking to ramp up their output to the max.

Making music with a simple setup of headphones and a laptop can only get you so far. At some point audio production becomes an issue. Having a well routed and professionally optimized music production setup will greatly enrich your sound design, production and workflow.


RME Fireface UC Image

RME Fireface UC

  • ✔ Up to 192kHz sample rates
  • ✔ Provides revolutionary ultra-low latencies even with multiple channels
  • ✔ Class compliant MIDI IO ports
  • ✔ Compatible with Windows 10 and Mac OS

The RME Fireface UCX is a professional level soundcard for the studio.

RME Fireface UC - Read Review See The Latest Price On Amazon Now

There are so many audio interfaces on the market today that are unreliable. As a result, many musicians and home studio owners spend a lot of money on equipment they will end up having to replace. The RME Fireface UC is an audio interface that has been designed to be reliable. It has a rugged all-metal casing that will protect it from all kinds of damage, including high temperatures and humidity. Its internal circuits are based on a new technology that has been tested under extreme conditions, including high temperature and humidity. The result is a product that will provide you with years of trouble-free service.

The RME Fireface UC is the newest Fireface unit from RME. It is the first professional audio interface with Thunderbolt interface. The RME Fireface UC is a highly flexible, ultra-low latency 24-bit/192 kHz interface for USB 2.0, FireWire and Thunderbolt. The RME Fireface UC is an 8-in, 8-out audio interface for mobile musicians and home studios. It features two combination inputs on the front that can be used as microphone or line inputs, and is equipped with two further balanced line inputs and on the back.

With a RME Fireface UC, you can record your own music and have your own podcast. You can even make money from it. If you want to be successful at creating your own music, you must be able to produce the best quality music. The RME Fireface UC is the one product that can help you to achieve this goal.


Presonus Quantum 26x32 Thunderbolt 2 Image

Presonus Quantum 26x32 Thunderbolt 2

  • ✔ Very good sound quality
  • ✔ Rack mountable
  • ✔ Control session using an iPad or Android tablet
  • ✔ Built-in talkback microphone

Another excellent choice for professional studios

Presonus Quantum 26x32 Thunderbolt 2 - Read Review See The Latest Price On Amazon Now

Presonus Quantum is the first audio interface to combine the sonic character of an analog console with the flexible connectivity, state-of-the-art digital technology, and world-class audio processing of a state-of-the-art digital workstation. With Quantum, recording and mixing engineers can now seamlessly meld the best of analog and digital technologies, and use the same amazing interface for both live recording and studio music production.

The Presonus Quantum is the right tool for any project, large or small. It provides the quality, flexibility and cost-effectiveness that professionals need. This device is the heart of a project studio, but it's also an excellent choice for anyone starting a home studio, a mobile rig or a small church sound system. It is an audio interface for Mac and Windows that utilizes true 32-bit analog-to-digital converters and delivers the best audio quality that we've ever heard from an interface in this price range.

Presonus Quantum is the ultimate professional recording interface for the home studio. This full-featured USB 2.0 and thunderbolt audio interface is capable of 24-bit/192 kHz audio quality. With outstanding mic preamps, unique direct monitoring capabilities and pristine digital conversion. You will get professional-quality recordings with the Presonus Quantum.

The Quantum delivers the quality and performance you expect from Presonus, now at an affordable price.


MOTU 828es 28x32 Image

MOTU 828es 28x32

  • ✔ Incredibly sound quality
  • ✔ Rack mountable
  • ✔ Expandable (up to 5 additional MOTU devices)
  • ✔ Web-app control

Lowest latency times (1.6ms roundtrip) and designed to perfection

MOTU 828es 28x32 - Read Review See The Latest Price On Amazon Now

The MOTU 828es has to be our favourite audio interface featured on the list. Why? Well, it offers so much functionality and in-turn, ease of use, that we can’t not love it.

Firstly, this is a rack-mountable Thunderbolt and USB audio interface, which is quite rare to see.

It comes with 28-inputs and 32-outputs ranging from the mass of available XLR/TRS, Line, MIDI, ADAT and S/PDIF ports.

Due to the quality of its internal circuitry, and the ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC Technology, it can provide an impressive 1.6ms of round-trip latency, which is less than any other interface featured on this list.

And whilst we’re on the topic of the ESS Sabre32 Dac Technology, this is the same technology used in MOTU’s ultra-expensive 1248 model.

However, the really attractive part of using the MOTU 828es is the ability to remotely control the interface, using any device, via the web-app feature, which is ideal for recording/live situations where you want to see how something sounds from another physical location. As well as this, the MOTU 828es can be expanded, by adding up to 5 additional MOTU devices together, in case your home/professional studio needs to expand operations.

Additionally, the unit provides a talkback mic, A/B mix buttons, and even the ability to connect a footswitch to remotely control the talkback microphone, whilst you’re busy using your hands.

Overall, when taking into account all of the above, including the pros and (not so many) cons, it’s clear why we really like the MOTU 828es.

 

Compatibility
  • Mac & PC, iOS*, Android* & Linux*
  • Supports all major DAWs

 

Features
  • 28-in/32-out audio interface
  • A very well-known and reputable brand
  • Rackmountable
  • Sturdy aluminum metal chassis
  • Near to zero-latency (1.6ms according to their website)
  • Check mixes instantly with A/B buttons
  • Web app control from any device (iOS, Android, Linux, Mac, PC, etc)
  • Ability to expand network and connect up to 5 MOTU interfaces
  • Plenty of input/output types
  • Talkback mic
  • Warranty: 2-Year Manufacturers Warranty

 

Technical Specs
  • Thunderbolt 2 (Thunderbolt 3 compatible) & USB 2.0 connectivity (USB 3.0 compatible)
  • 28-in / 32-out
  • 2 XLR/TRS combination inputs
  • 8 Line inputs
  • 8 Line outputs
  • MIDI input/output
  • 2 x ADAT optical input/output
  • S/PDIF input/output
  • Powered by a power supply
  • 24-bit/96kHz resolution
  • 48v Phantom power

 

Pros
  • Built-in talkback microphone (and remote use using a footswitch)
  • A/B mix buttons
  • Less than 1.6ms round-trip latency
  • 2-year manufacturers warranty

M-Audio M-Track 8X4M Audio Interface Image

M-Audio M-Track 8X4M Audio Interface

  • ✔ Very well known audio interface manufacturer
  • ✔ Compact audio interface
  • ✔ Sleek black interface with metal chassis
  • ✔ Portable

An 8-channel audio interface built into an elegant, sleek metal chassis with black and silver trim.

M-Audio M-Track 8X4M Audio Interface - Read Review See The Latest Price On Amazon Now

The M-Audio M-Track 8x4M is an 8-channel audio interface, built into an elegant, sleek metal chassis, with black and silver trim. It looks the part, but how does it sound?

Well, it boasts low-noise crystal preamps and high-quality A/D converters, which give it that premium-quality sound.

M-Audio have been sure to only use the best internal circuitry, with the unit having a roundtrip latency of around 2.59ms, which is extremely low.

The unit records at 24-bit/192kHz, and come with a large software suite, which includes a lite edition of Pro Tools, Ableton Live Lite and much more (all shown above in the features section).

As far as the unit’s connectivity is concerned, it has all of the basics which include XLR, TRS, and MIDI input/output (all shown in detail within the technical specs section).

Overall, the M-Audio M-Track 8x4M is definitely a great unit for those who want premium-quality sound. However, we don’t see how it tops the formerly spoken about Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 (3rd Gen).  None-the-less, the decision is of course, entirely up to you!

Compatibility
  • Mac & PC
  • Supports all major DAWs
Features
  • Very well known audio interface manufacturer
  • Compact audio interface
  • Sleek black interface with metal chassis
  • Portable
  • Low-noise crystal preamps
  • Near to zero latency (2.59ms roundtrip)
  • Software included:
    • Pro Tools, Ableton Live Lite, Eleven Lite, AIR’s Creative FX Collection and an AIR Instrument plugin suite.
  • Warranty: 1 Year Manufacturers Warranty
Technical Specs
  • USB Type C connectivity
  • MIDI input/output
  • 4 XLR/TRS combination inputs (on the back)
  • 2 TRS inputs (on the front)
  • 2 TRS inputs (on the back)
  • 2 TRS headphones outputs (on the front)
  • 4 TRS outputs (on the back)
  • Supports all major DAWs
  • 24-bit/192 kHz resolution
  • 48v Phantom Power
Pros
  • Well known brand
  • Low latency times (2.59ms)
  • Impressive technical specifications
  • Portable
Cons
  • No ADAT/SPDIF Connectivity

Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic Image

Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic

  • ✔ Flexible analogue compression on every channel
  • ✔ Eight natural-sounding 2nd generation Scarlett mic preamps
  • ✔ Focusrite precision AD/DA conversion up to sample rates of 192 kHz
  • ✔ Eight balanced line outputs

Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic is ideal for expanding any high quality, multi-channel recording system.

Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic - Read Review See The Latest Price On Amazon Now

Focusrite's new OctoPre MkII is an 8-channel audio interface, featuring one of Focusrite's award-winning Red microphone preamplifiers. This interface gives you an 8-channel mixer with phantom power as well as analogue inputs and outputs and digital connectors for ADAT, S/PDIF and USB 2.0. It also includes Focusrite's Soft Limit technology, which ensures that the analogue inputs and outputs never overload and that the interface always performs at its optimum level. This device is perfect for those starting out with recording who want to get a mix of analogue and digital recording, or anyone who wants a compact, portable interface.

The Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre is a high-performance interface that is designed for producers and musicians who want to make professional recordings. This unit has eight pristine-sounding Scarlett mic preamps for outstanding RMS noise performance and the digital audio conversion is 24-bit, at up to 96 kHz. The Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre is designed for producers and musicians who want to make professional recordings. This unit has eight pristine-sounding Scarlett mic preamps for outstanding RMS noise performance and the digital audio conversion is 24-bit, at up to 96 kHz.

Featuring eight award-winning Focusrite preamps, Focusrite USB audio interfaces are the best-sounding and most reliable you can buy. The new Scarlett range has been completely redesigned to give you the best sounding and most reliable USB audio interfaces in the world. The Scarlett range includes 6 distinct models, each with super-low latency* that lets you record vocals, instruments or audio input directly to your computer with no delay, and without the need for any external hardware. This interface also features an LED-backlit digital display to show sample rate, audio and peak levels.


MOTU Ultralite AVB USB iOS Interface Image

MOTU Ultralite AVB USB iOS Interface

  • ✔ Fantastic customer reviews
  • ✔ Ability to connect up to 5 MOTU devices
  • ✔ Ability to network with other interfaces and computers
  • ✔ Reputable brand

Well received from previous customers, fantastic customer reviews

MOTU Ultralite AVB USB iOS Interface - Read Review See The Latest Price On Amazon Now

The MOTU UltraLite AVB interface definitely holds up as being a high-quality audio interface, and that’s apparent from the customer review ratings.

The interface provides 36 audio channels, providing 10 analog inputs alongside 8 analog outputs, in which there is a selection of XLR and Line ports (we’ve provided the specifics in the technical specs section). Additionally, it includes an optical input/output to increase the overall input and output capability.

It’s compatible with both a PC and a Mac, via a USB 2.0 connection (although it’s compatible with USB 3.0), offering high data transfer speeds and minimal latency.

Additionally, the Ultralite AVB digital mixer provides 48 channels and 12 busses, all of which can even be controlled with your Mac, Windows, Linux, iOS and Android device, by using the web app served by the physical hardware itself… Perfect for recording or performance environments.

Not to mention, the UltraLite AVB can be further expanded, using the MOTU AVB Switch, which enables you to connect up to five MOTU interfaces, so the possibilities are endless.

MOTU's UltraLite AVB interface makes it possible to record up to four channels of audio at once, to a Mac or PC, with Mac and Windows drivers. You get eight high-performance preamps, pristine A/D, and a price point that's more than a bargain. MOTU's premium 8x8 audio interface for Mac and Windows is perfect for home recording, podcasting, audio-for-video, live sound-for-video, and multimedia applications. With its excellent sound quality and reliable performance, UltraLite is ideal for musicians, podcasters, photographers, videographers and video enthusiasts. With its convenient size and price, UltraLite AVB is perfect for mobile Mac or Windows recording setups - it's also ideal for home-theater PC users. UltraLite AVB includes all the essential inputs and outputs you need for recording eight simultaneous audio tracks and delivering great-sounding playback through a connected computer.

Ultra-compact, lightweight, and portable, MOTU's UltrLite AVB is the perfect companion for the traveling musician. Whether you're gigging with a laptop-based rig or on the go with a notebook or mac. MOTU's interface lets you record anywhere, anytime. Whether you're a musician, producer, engineer, or just a music-loving road warrior, UltrLite AVB can make your life easier and your music better.

Designed to offer state-of-the-art audio performance and routing in a compact form. The Ultralite AVB is a groundbreaking interface in many ways, including the fact that it is the smallest high-performance AVB audio interface available today. It is a perfect solution for home studios that require the highest quality audio and uncompromised 24-bit/192 kHz audio performance.


Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 with Pro Tools Image

Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 with Pro Tools

  • ✔ Class-leading conversion and sample rates
  • ✔ Focusrite iOS Control app
  • ✔ Two headphones output
  • ✔ Eight natural-sounding Scarlett mic preamps

This interface will take your growing studio to the next level.

Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 with Pro Tools - Read Review See The Latest Price On Amazon Now

Another rack-mount choice in the mid-level category is the 18i20, which is the older brother of the Solo. Loaded with tons of features and I/O possibilities, this rack-mount is a solid choice for any mid-level studio setup. Not to mention, this interface will take your growing studio to the next level with its amazing sound quality and expansion options. The price seems to be very right with this rack-mount, it offers nearly all the same features and possibilities of competing rack-mounts but at half the cost.

Focusrite’s Scarlett audio interfaces are now a well established range, and using the same mic preamp design as the FireWire Saffire range, it’s a given that the front end is going to be at least as good as any at this price.

The 18i20 has 18 inputs and 20 outputs, and is effectively a Saffire Pro 40 with USB rather than FireWire. Though there are a few notable differences. Such as word clock only being on the 18i20 and no optical S/PDIF option for the 18i20. Although it may not appear to be a big step up from the Scarlett 18i6, they’re worlds apart in terms of physical connectivity.

At 3kg, the 18i20 is a hefty unit. Although the Scarlett series’ red livery has been carried through to the case. The black front panel is a far more serious and professional-looking affair. It all feels very solid. While we prefer the rubberised black mic preamp knobs to the shiny silver monitor and headphone knobs. It’s obviously not a deal breaker.

Like many current audio interfaces, the 18i20 tackles the ‘studio hub’ role successfully, bringing together input, output, software monitoring and hardware monitoring. Having two separately configurable headphone feeds, for example, is very useful. As are the physical Mute and Dim buttons and additional software monitoring options (including mono).

Two front-mounted mic/line/instrument inputs are joined by six rear-mounted mic/line inputs (all on combo connectors). All eight mic preamps feature individual front panel gain knobs, along with 48V phantom power switched on/off in two banks of four. Inputs 1 and 2 get manual switchover for high impedance instrument input and a 10dB pad switch.

There are ten analogue outputs on balanced TRS jacks, the first two of which are labelled ‘Monitor’. The front panel also has two dedicated headphone outputs with individual level controls. The other ten inputs and outputs are digital, with stereo S/PDIF via RCA and eight further channels on ADAT lightpipe. The latter can also handle S/PDIF or four channels of SMUX at 96kHz.

Lastly, there’s MIDI In/Out, word clock out and a mains input socket. The 18i20 can also run as a signal mixer in standalone mode. Display-wise, the front panel hosts eight 5-part LED input meters as well as USB Active and clock Locked indicators.

The combo inputs automatically switch between mic and line sources based on plug type, and the 60dB of gain handles low-level signals well. The input LEDs do the job, although there’s no option to switch them to output monitoring. One minor issue: in some circumstances, the monitor mute and level can be a bit slow to respond. Focusrite say it’s a software problem that’ll be fixed soon in an update.

Phantom power can only be turned throughout inputs 1-4 and 5-8 at a time. No on an as needed. so if only input 3 needs phantom power you must push the phantom power 1-4 button engaging it for all 4 inputs. Don’t worry as this will NOT damage or affect the other inputs using dynamic mics and will only hurt older ribbon mics.

Comes with more than enough software to start and point you to more if you’re new and feel the need to build up a plugin collection. It has everything you need and nothing you don’t. Cannot be beat for the price. Metal construction, beautiful red brushed aluminum on the top, it’s a shame to rack mount it. Knobs and buttons are heavy and confident as well as the solid click when inserting cables. It has some weight to it too. I’m blown away by the ability and features of this amp! No regrets and now I see why this audio interface for mac is so popular!


PreSonus Studio 1824 Audio Interface Image

PreSonus Studio 1824 Audio Interface

  • ✔ Best-selling audio interface series
  • ✔ Sleek black metal chassis
  • ✔ Rack mountable
  • ✔ Switchable “Air” function

The Presonus Studio 1824c 8-channel audio interface is a premium-priced, rack-mountable model.

PreSonus Studio 1824 Audio Interface - Read Review See The Latest Price On Amazon Now

The Presonus Studio 1824c is a premium-priced, rack-mountable audio interface suitable for any professional musician/sound engineer’s studio setup.

It comes with a range of inputs/outputs, including 8 XLR/TRS inputs and 8 TRS outputs (not including the 2 main TRS outputs), as well as MIDI, S/PDIF and ADAT connectivity.

PreSonus is known for producing high-quality audio equipment, and the 1824c doesn’t disappoint, with its high sound resolution (192kHz/24-bit) and XMAX preamps.

Additionally, the unit is compatible with most popular DAWs and even provides iPad/Android compatibility.

Overall, this unit is priced at quite a premium price, and we think that this is a fantastic choice for those wanting plenty of inputs/outputs… However, we personally prefer the next discussed Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 (3rd Gen) which is the same price.

Compatibility
  • Mac, PC, iPad & Android
  • Supports all major DAWs
Features
  • Highly reputable manufacturer
  • Sleek metal chassis
  • Rackmountable
  • Low latency unit with high-quality XMAX mic preamps
  • LED monitoring on front of the interface
  • Compatible with iPad* & Andoid*
  • Software included:
    • PreSonus Studio One Artist
  • Warranty: 2 Year Manufacturers Warranty
Technical Specs
  • USB Type C or USB-A connectivity (2 versions)
  • MIDI input/output
  • 2 XLR/TRS combination inputs (on the front)
  • 6 XLR/TRS combination inputs (on the back)
  • 2 TRS headphones outputs (on the front)
  • 8 TRS outputs (on the back)
  • 2 TRS main outputs (on the back)
  • S/PDIF input/output
  • 8 channels of ADAT Optical I/O (4 channels at 96 kHz)
  • Supports all major DAWs
  • 24-bit/192 kHz resolution
  • 48v Phantom Power
Pros
  • Reputable brand
  • Plenty of Inputs/Outputs
  • 2-year manufacturers warranty
  • Impressive technical specifications
  • Rack-mountable
  • Compatible with iPad & Android

Tascam US-16x08 Image

Tascam US-16x08

  • ✔ Eight balanced line outputs are also available
  • ✔ Eight Ultra-HDDA microphone preamps
  • ✔ An additional eight line inputs are provided
  • ✔ Captures 16 mic and line inputs

The US-16x08 feature set represents the barest of bones for audio interfaces of this type.

Tascam US-16x08 - Read Review See The Latest Price On Amazon Now

The Tascam US-16×08 is an 8 channel audio interface, aimed at being an affordable option for those wanting a rack-mountable audio interface with a decent amount of inputs/outputs.

The entry level into the 1U 8 mic pre interface category comes in from Tascam who are well known for developing solid recording gear at competitive prices. On to the 16×08. The Tascam site has all the specs and manuals, just look there if you want to get to know this beast. You can even test-drive the brand-new ASIO driver panel as it works without the unit attached. The US-16×08 feature set represents the barest of bones for audio interfaces of this type. As only one headphone output with a level pot is provided and no ADAT is included for I/O expansion. That said, you may not have to worry about the absence of ADAT here as the US 16×08, as the names suggests, provides 16 analog inputs and 8 outputs.

On the front of the interface 8 XLR mic pres that are claimed to deliver “clean and quiet operation” with up to 56dB of gain along with 2 jack inputs are present with 10 gain pots. On the rear you’ll find balanced line level inputs 11 through to 16 with outputs 1 through 8 along with MIDI I/O. If you find that you require more than 8 mic pres then the extra inputs on the rear could easily be utilized with some outboard channel strips which would make this a great interface for full band recording applications.

This device also provides two options of mounting. Use either the rack ears for mounting in standard 19” racks or screw in the included legs into the side of the chassis for desktop placement.

The US 16×8 may look like it could be from the last decade as the design is a bit bland but it has some modern power under the hood as it includes DSP, though basic it is very usable. Each of the inputs can have a 4 band EQ and compressor applied in tracking. This is adjustable via the Tascam mixer application which also offers near-latency-free monitor mixing and flexible routing.

The unit is compatible with the majority of digital audio workstations that exist, and can be used with Mac and PC. Additionally, it can also be used with iPad, iPad Pro, iOS and other tablets. By using the class-compliant drivers that Tascam has available for download on their website.

However, it doesn’t include some of the features and ports that the formally discussed Behringer U-Phoria UMC1820 audio interface has, including ADAT and SPDIF connectivity, and not to mention the MIDAS designed preamps.

None-the-less, the US-16×08 does provide 96kHz/24-bit recording resolution, so it’s definitely a solid unit, and the customer review ratings affirm this.

Overall, the Tascam US-16×08 is a good quality interface and may be a good option for those who require iPad, iOS and other tablet connectivity. However, we don’t see many other selling points of this, when comparing it to other interfaces in the list, for example, the cheaper Behringer U-Phoria UMC1820.

Compatibility
  • Mac & PC
  • Supports all major DAWs
Features
  • Affordable 8-Channel audio interface
  • Tough metal chassis
  • Rack-mountable
  • Eight Ultra-HDDA microphone preamps
  • iPad & iOS device compatible
  • Low latency monitoring via the on-board DSP mixer
  • Warranty: 1-Year Manufacturers Warranty
Technical Specs
  • USB 2.0 connectivity
  • MIDI input/output
  • 8 XLR inputs (on the front)
  • 6 TRS inputs (on the back)
  • 8 TRS outputs (on the back)
  • 1 TRS headphones output
  • 2 ‘main’ TRS outputs (on the back)
  • Supports all major DAWs
  • 24-bit/96 kHz resolution
  • 48v Phantom Power
Pros
  • Well known brand
  • Product is well-reviewed and scores favorably in customer review ratings
  • iPad, iOS & Tablet compatible
  • Impressive technical specifications
Cons
  • No real USPs when comparing against other interfaces
  • Fairly old, was released in 2014

On the front of the interface 8 XLR mic pres that are claimed to deliver “clean and quiet operation” with up to 56dB of gain along with 2 jack inputs are present with 10 gain pots. On the rear you’ll find balanced line level inputs 11 through to 16 with outputs 1 through 8 along with MIDI I/O. If you find that you require more than 8 mic pres then the extra inputs on the rear could easily be utilized with some outboard channel strips which would make this a great interface for full band recording applications.

This device also provides two options of mounting. Use either the rack ears for mounting in standard 19” racks or screw in the included legs into the side of the chassis for desktop placement.

The US 16×8 may look like it could be from the last decade as the design is a bit bland but it has some modern power under the hood as it includes DSP, though basic it is very usable. Each of the inputs can have a 4 band EQ and compressor applied in tracking. This is adjustable via the Tascam mixer application which also offers near-latency-free monitor mixing and flexible routing.


More Information Regarding 8 Channel Audio Interfaces (2024)

What is a 8 Channel Audio Interface?

In essence an audio interface allows you to take audio signals and pump them in and out of your computer. The decision on which one is right for you simply comes down to a combination of your budget and how you like to work. Simplistic models exist that simply convert analog audio signals to digital audio signals on the way to your computer. This is because your computer will have software such as pro tools that is able to understand digital audio signals. Allowing you to layer, manipulate and refine the sound and then pump out to a speaker or amplifier. The audio interface will convert your digital audio signals back to analog signals on the way out of your computer. This way the speaker is able to play the sound for you to hear. These types of audio interfaces are known as AD/DA (Analog to Digital/Digital to Analog) converters.

Connection Types

8 channel interfaces come with all sorts of connection types allowing you to connect to your computer via USB, thunderbolt & firewire to name a few. USB is the most popular and widely used mainly because it comes in many different forms ranging from Type-A, 2.0, & Micro USB through to the latest Type-C connections. Thunderbolt connections are the fastest. You'll find these are used on some of the more modern and high end 8 channel audio interfaces available on the market.

Prices

The price of top quality 8 channel interfaces has fallen dramatically in recent years. This is great news if you're looking to get hold of a device that will give you a fantastic sound without costing the earth. This is because many brands have taken their previous generation 8 channel audio interface models and repackaged them. Usually with some modern nuances to create a budget model of their current range. Don't be put off by this, these audio interfaces are still great value. They might not have all the latest bells and whistles but they get the job done. Which means you don't need to pay substantial amounts of money for them.

Depending on what you want to achieve, you'll priorities different features when finding the best audio interfaces for your situation. If space is an issue you'll look for a small to medium sized interface that provides you a great experience and end result while not taking up a large portion of your limited space. If you're in need of a portable audio interface then you'll probably rule out any rack mountable models. Instead you'll be looking for small battery powered options.

Inputs & Outputs

8 channel interfaces come with a range of inputs and outputs. Some will have line inputs, mic preamps, headphone outputs, mic inputs & many other inputs and outputs. Make sure the model you consider has what you need. If you're kitting out a home studio then you'll be looking for the best audio interface which features (such as phantom power) the inputs and outputs you need at an affordable price.

Some of the best audio interfaces on the market come with software as part of the package. Pro tools is a popular editing software that we've seen offered as part of audio interface packages in the past. Purchasing an audio interface that comes with a reputable editing software is a great way to justify paying more for your audio interface because you're saving money elsewhere.

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