Top 2 Best Firewire Audio Interfaces On The Market (September 2023)

What is an 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.

What Is A Firewire Audio Interface?

The best firewire audio interface connections work differently to USB models. They are much much faster at streaming data, which leads to much lower latency. The biggest issue with firewire audio interfaces however is that most standard computers do not have this type of port. Which means you may need to change some of your hardware to accommodate a firewire audio interface.

Choosing a firewire audio interface is great however not all firewire connections are built the same way. Firewire 400 & firewire 800 formats exist. If you're computer has firewire 800 ports then you have double the bandwidth than those with firewire 400 ports. So firewire 800 sounds like a no brainer right? Not exactly, it's very rare that you'd need this enormous increase in bandwidth. If you're using your audio interface in a home studio with 2-10 input/outputs then the reality is that any and all firewire formats will be good enough for you needs. If you're using 56 channels of 24-bit/192Khz audio simultaneously then we do recommend you push for a firewire 800 compatible model.

Price Range

The price of top quality audio 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 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 firewire 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

Audio 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 firewire audio interface which features (such as phantom power) the inputs and outputs you need at an affordable price range.

Some of the best firewire audio interfaces 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.