Top 10 Best USB Audio Interfaces On The Market (December 2023)

The Antelope Audio Zen Tour is a portable USB Audio Interface that contains Antelope's award-winning 24-bit / 192 kHz Analog-to-Digital converters and Digital-to-Analog converters, as well as Zero Latency Monitoring technology, making it the go-to interface for traveling musicians, DJs or anyone who is on the road. The Zen Tour is an interface with performance, versatility and ease of use unsurpassed in the industry. Antelope's innovative design eliminates the need to make complex choices and trade-offs. With the Zen Tour, you get it all. Streamlined control and simple operation is further enhanced with exclusive Plug-And-Play presets, which are optimized for the most popular audio recording and live performance applications. In short, it's probably the best audio interface on this list.

As a compact USB audio interface that includes microphone preamplifiers with adjustable gain, headphone amplifiers. As well as an advanced DSP mixer. The Zen Tour is a complete solution for recording a band, singer/songwriter, or solo musical performance. The Zen Tour's input channels are loaded with premium-grade components that are hand-picked from the Antelope Audio sound bard for their sonic purity and transparency.

The Zen Tour has an extremely powerful yet highly intuitive design that makes recording and mixing extremely easy. It is the perfect choice for recording musicians, vocalists, and sound engineers. It is designed with the professional musician in mind, who needs to capture audio in the most straightforward way possible.

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.

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 interface that has both USB and Thunderbolt connectivity, 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

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.

The Scarlett 18i20 (3rd Gen) by Focusrite is their third iteration of this phenomenally successful series. And with each generation, Focusrite seems to iron out any flaws and add functionality.

It is an 18 input unit, with 8 XLR/TRS combination inputs, as well as a MIDI, S/PDIF and ADAT inputs/outputs. The reason that this interface features two sets of ADAT inputs/outputs as it requires both sets to be used simultaneously when running the unit at 96kHz. The unit itself is very physically pleasing, and can be rack-mounted. It also includes a range of software, which will delight any musicians who may be starting out.

As for the technical capabilities of the unit, as expected, it can provide a 192kHz sample rate, which is very impressive. This is a solid usb c audio interface. The usb interface means it's compatible with hundreds of modern devices. It also has a headphone jack, for those times you don't want to disturb anyone.

Overall, since it’s extremely new, there are few customer reviews in existence. However, when taking into account the previous versions and their customer reviews, it definitely suggests that this is an interface to look at.

Compatibility

• Mac & PC
• Supports all major DAWs

Features

• Newly released audio interface
• 18 inputs and 20 outputs
• Eight high-quality mic preamps
• Made by Focusrite, who are leaders in the music tech industry
• 3rd Generation of the Scarlett 18i20
• Durable metal chassis which is rack-mountable
• Sleek aesthetic design
• Includes software
  • Pro Tools, Ableton Live Lite, Softube time and tone bundle, Focusrite’s Red plug-in Suite, 3-month splice subscription and 1 free XLN Addictive Keys virtual instrument
• Requires power adapter
• Warranty: 2-Year Manufacturers Warranty

Technical Specs

• USB C connectivity
• MIDI input/output
• 2 XLR/TRS combination inputs (on the front)
• 6 XLR/TRS combination inputs (on the back)
• 2 TRS/Headphone outputs (on the front)
• 10 TRS/Line outputs (on the back)
• S/PDIF input & output
• 2 x ADAT input & output
• 24-bit/192 kHz resolution
• 20 Hz – 20 kHz Frequency Response
• 48v Phantom Power

Pros

• Highly reputable brand
• New technology, with it being a new release
• Tried and tested, as it’s the 3rd Generation of the product
• Ultra-low latency
• 2-year manufacturers warranty
• Very impressive technical specs

Cons

• Phantom power can only be applied to bulk inputs (i.e 1-4, 4-8)

The Octa-Capture by the Roland Corporation is the most affordable audio interface that we’ve featured on the list.

It’s compatible with both Mac and PC, and can be used with the majority of DAWs, making it versatile for your setup.

It features eight premium-quality preamps, which boast the same internal components as their V-Studio 700 and M-400 V-Mixer mixing desks.

It has 8 XLR/TRS combination inputs, which allow users to plug in a combination of 1/4″ jacks and XLRs, ideal for live band recording sessions and to record instruments such as drums, where you may need a condenser microphone and DI capability.

Regarding the technical details, it records at a maximum of 96kHz sample rate, has a frequency response from 20Hz to 40 kHz, and delivers extremely low roundtrip latency with the help of Roland’s proprietary vs streaming technology.

Overall, when taking into account that the audio interface has incredibly customer reviews and even comes with a 1-year manufacturers warranty, it definitely holds it’s own on this article being a product to beat.

Compatibility

• Mac & PC
• Supports all major DAWs

Features

• Incredibly reputable company ‘Roland’
• Durable aluminum chassis which is rack-mountable
• Eight premium microphone preamps
• Ultra-low latency driver
• Includes software
  • Cakewalk Sonar X1 LE
• Requires power adapter
• Warranty: 1-year manufacturers warranty

Technical Specs

• USB 2.0
• MIDI input/output
• 4 XLR/TRS combination inputs (on the front)
• 4 XLR/TRS combination inputs (on the back)
• 8 TRS outputs (on the back)
• Supports all major DAWs
• 24-bit/96 kHz resolution
• 20 Hz – 40 kHz Frequency Response
• 48v Phantom Power

Pros

• The brand has a proven track record
• The product has a near-perfect customer review rating
• A large number of inputs/outputs
• Impressive technical specifications

Apogee has been making the world's finest audio interfaces for nearly 20 years. From the original Duet to the new One, the Apogee family has expanded to include a product for every budget and application. The Apogee One is a USB 2.0 Hi-Speed audio interface with the same sound quality you're used to, at a price that won't break the bank. Studio-quality microphone preamplifiers, ultra-low noise preamps, crisp AD/DA conversion and a total lack of coloration make One ideal for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, electric guitar, drums, and more. The Apogee One is ideal for musicians, songwriters and producers who want to record in their home, project studio or professional studio.

Being a simple, elegant interface, the Apogee One can be used with a variety of Mac and Windows computers. It has a single microphone/instrument input, a single headphone output, and a generous mixing knob that allows you to adjust the amount of your instruments and vocals in the final mix. It's everything you need to record professional-quality tracks at home or on the go.

The Apogee One features two high-quality, Class A XMAX microphone preamplifiers. These have been considered the industry standard for sound quality in recording for over 30 years, and they're found in some of the best studios in the world. This device offers a simple way to record professional-quality music on a computer.

Zoom's UAC-2 (Universal Audio Converter) is an easy-to-use USB audio interface that connects to your computer and instantly transforms it into a full-fledged recording studio. Built on a rock solid foundation of quality, flexibility and ease-of-use, the UAC-2 offers exceptional audio performance for both analog and digital audio. The Zoom UAC-2 is a digital recording interface designed for home-studio use. This two-input, two-output interface features two combo mic/instrument inputs with both XLR and 1/4" connectors. It also provides two TRS main outs, a headphone jack, and MIDI in/out jacks to connect to synths and other gear.

The Zoom UAC-2 is a 2-input, 2-output high-resolution audio interface that features built-in MIDI I/O. It connects to your Mac or PC via USB 2.0, providing two sets of high-impedance inputs, eight balanced outputs over XLR jacks, and a single MIDI In and Out. The UAC-2 is compatible with all major DAWs and provides ultra-high-quality 24-bit, 96 kHz audio that's ideal for recording, sound design, and other audio applications.

The Zoom UAC-2 lets you connect your instruments, microphones, and audio sources to your iPad or Mac computer and record studio-quality sound. It features two combo inputs with XLR/TRS combo jacks, one microphone preamp, and two Hi-Z instrument inputs. The UAC-2 record direct to iPad, iPhone, and Mac computers and is compatible with popular recording software such as GarageBand, Logic Pro, Pro Tools, and more.

If you are serious about making the highest quality recordings, the Zoom UAC-2 is the best tool for the job. This interface features superb quality preamps and is on offer at a great price. The interface is great for recording vocal and instrument tracks alike.

The Audient iD4 is a compact and powerful 2-in/ 4-out USB audio interface that is perfect for producers and musicians looking to create high quality recordings with their Mac or PC. With a combination of world-class analogue pre-amp circuitry and superb conversion. It provides a professional and reliable audio interface. The interface is designed to provide professional audio studios with the connectivity they need in a single unit. The iD4 is a brand new product to the Audient range, it is a simple 2 channel interface that uses an extremely reliable and proven audio engine.

At the heart of the iD4 is an advanced FPGA processor called the Hammer, which is capable of processing audio at sample rates of up to 192kHz. The Hammer allows this interface to operate at very low levels of latency, and is also used to process the device's digital outputs and its built-in headphone amplifier. Weighing in at less than 2kg the iD4 features a single mic preamp and 4 analogue channels of I/O on standard TRS jacks. By using a USB connection to your computer, the iD4 can have up to 7 analogue channels of I/O. It also has MIDI I/O and a hardware monitoring path to your DAW. The iD4 records from an unlimited number of digital sources via ADAT optical or SPDIF. The optical and SPDIF inputs can be routed to any of the analogue channels for monitoring.

The iD4 is the most affordable interface in Audient's range, and yet the company has squeezed some incredibly impressive technology into its compact body. It is a 2-channel high-end audio interface featuring Audient's award-winning preamps and AD/DA conversion. Suitable for home recording and project studios, the iD4 features portability.

The Behringer UMC404HD is a great audio interface when you want to record high quality audio. This interface allows you to record up to four tracks simultaneously. You can plug in your microphone into the XLR input or you can plug in your guitar or bass directly into this device. This audio interface has a built-in mixer and you can set the volume of each channel individually.

The BEHRINGER UMC404HD is the perfect interface for your computer-based home studio. The UMC404HD is a low-noise, high-headroom, true analog-to-digital/digital-to-analog converter. It delivers pristine 24-bit/96kHz audio quality and plenty of connectivity. Two combo mic/instrument inputs with XLR/TRS connectors and a hi-Z input on the front panel are complemented by two balanced TRS outputs. The UMC404HD has both digital (S/PDIF) and analog (RCA) outputs and comes with a copy of Tracktion 2 Music Production Software for video-free recording and editing.

It provides four studio-quality microphone preamps with phantom power and excellent RFI rejection, plus four balanced analog outputs with Level control for the ultimate in recording flexibility. The UMC404HD offers a complete professional recording studio at a budget price. A powerful DSP (digital signal processor) engine works with new digital converters for superior audio quality. With its ultra-low latency, you can capture audio with no delay, allowing you to record and monitor with software effects in real time.