Best Value Audio Interfaces Available

Top 10 Best Value Audio Interfaces Available (March 2024)

The Best Value Audio Interfaces Available (March 2024)

The best value 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 audio interface. Whatever type of audio interface you're looking for we've tried to find the audio interfaces with the best features. While still being considered a great value audio interface.

The Best Value Audio Interfaces Available Buyers Guide (March 2024)

  • 1. Behringer U-Control UCA222
  • 2. Focusrite Scarlett Solo
  • 3. PreSonus Studio 24c 2x2
  • 4. Audient iD4
  • 5. M-Audio AIR 2X2
  • 6. Steinberg UR242
  • 7. Roland Rubix24
  • 8. Focusrite Scarlett 2i4
  • 9. Behringer U-Phoria Audio Interface
  • 10. Native Instruments Komplete Audio 6
Behringer U-Control UCA222 Image

Behringer U-Control UCA222

  • ✔ Ultra-flexible audio interface
  • ✔ Stereo Headphone output with dedicated Level control
  • ✔ High-resolution 48 kHz converters for high-end audio quality
  • ✔ Compatible with Windows 10 and mac, no setup or drivers required

A budget audio interface which is great for both recording and listening to music.

Behringer U-Control UCA222 - Read Review See The Latest Price On Amazon Now

The U-CONTROL UCA222 2-Channel Audio/MIDI Interface is the solution for connecting a professional quality microphone or musical instrument to your computer, mac or even iPad. You get 2 analog inputs and 2 analog outputs, each with a dedicated volume control. You can mix your audio from your iPad and the UCA222 with the UCA222's mixer, and even record it on your iPad with the UCA222's built-in microphone preamp.

The U-CONTROL UCA222 is a 2-input, 2-output audio interface with a 6.3mm TRS/TS stereo headphone jack and built-in 24-bit, 48 kHz ADC/DAC. It provides two combo inputs with switchable hi-Z/line level switching, and also provides two line outputs. It's small size, high performance and USB bus power availability are ideal for project and mobile recording. It has two combo inputs with hi-Z/line level switching and two line outputs. Line outputs can be set to 100% or 10% for monitoring applications.

If you're looking for a great audio interface interface for your next project, the Behringer U-Control UCA222 should definitely be at the top of your list. Not only does it have great sound quality, it also has a high quality build and a variety of inputs and outputs that will make it compatible with just about any piece of gear on the market. It's would be criminal to forget it's biggest asset. The small size of it. It's super portable and great when you're moving from location to location. A worthy consideration for anyone on the go.


Focusrite Scarlett Solo Image

Focusrite Scarlett Solo

  • ✔ High-performance converters
  • ✔ Includes Pro Tools
  • ✔ One of the best performing mic preamps in the Scarlett range
  • ✔ Quick start tool to get up and running

This interface is emblazoned in an eye catching red body paint that is sure to add a nice touch to any studio setup.

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

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo is a 2nd generation USB interface that offers a compact and highly flexible audio interface. One with a large number of input and output options for home recording or professional studio applications. The Solo can be seen as a smaller and sleeker version of the Scarlett 2i2, which is another Focusrite interface. It offers two mono input channels and one stereo input channel with a maximum input level of +22dBu. The device also features a 24-bit/192kHz resolution and a sample rate of 44.1 kHz.

It is a compact, easy to use USB audio interface that delivers the quality and performance you'd expect from Focusrite. Focusrite Scarlett Solo delivers the quality and performance you'd expect from Focusrite. It has an excellent-quality, 24-bit/192kHz AD/DA conversion, as well as the same natural sound quality and low latency as the rest of the latest Scarlett range. It is a USB audio interface that delivers professional quality sound. Take it with you wherever you record, because it works with all major DAWs on Mac and PC.

Scarlett Solo is the perfect entry-level interface for home studio recording. It gives you the same class-leading sound quality and digital conversion as the rest of the latest Scarlett range, with a host of additional features designed to help you get the best from your microphone, instrument or line-level signal. Overall the Scarlett Solo is Focusrite's most affordable interface, designed for musicians who want to record studio quality audio on a budget. An amazon best seller well worth considering.


PreSonus Studio 24c 2x2 Image

PreSonus Studio 24c 2x2

  • ✔ Easy-to-use Mixer knob for low-latency direct input monitoring
  • ✔ High-powered headphone output
  • ✔ USB-C compatible powered 2x2 audio interface
  • ✔ Compatible With Windows 10 and Mac

The PreSonus Studio 24c 2×2 is their flagship 2-in/2-out low-latency audio interface.

PreSonus Studio 24c 2x2 - Read Review See The Latest Price On Amazon Now

The Studio 24 2x2 is a two-in/two-out USB recording interface with a rugged all-metal chassis, low- noise preamps, direct monitor capability, and onboard phantom power. It is one of the most powerful, versatile, and cost-effective 2x2 USB recording interface available. It gives you unparalleled sonic quality and ease of use in an ultra-compact interface. With 24-bit resolution, you'll have plenty of headroom to track even the loudest guitar amps or fattest drum kits.

It works seamlessly with your Mac or PC computer. The Studio 24c gives you everything you need to make professional recordings. It sports a pair of PreSonus Studio-quality microphones with multiple polar patterns, a 1/4" instrument input with dedicated gain control, an on-board 48V phantom power supply, and a 3-channel mixer with a dry/wet control. You also get MIDI in/out and dual headphone outputs with separate volume controls.

The Studio 24c is a two-input, two-output interface designed for home musicians and audio enthusiasts. This compact interface offers plug-and-play simplicity and is compatible with any computer that has a USB port. When you're recording or performing live, you need the best possible sound quality – and that means a great-sounding interface. The PreSonus Studio 24 2x2 is a perfect choice for USB interfacing, offering two microphone/instrument inputs, two balanced TRS outputs, and four balanced TRS outputs for maximum versatility. You'll also get a full complement of studio I/O, including two preamps designed by the legendary Rupert Neve. The Studio 24 2x2 audio device is driver-free, so you can be up and running in a flash.


Audient iD4 Image

Audient iD4

  • ✔ Zero-latency monitoring with monitor mix and pan
  • ✔ iD4’s Monitor Pan - create a balanced headphone mix
  • ✔ Monitor Mix feature lets you monitor a blend of both inputs and playbacks
  • ✔ Clean, punchy and musical character

The iD4 is a serious upgrade for any personal project studio or mobile setup.

Audient iD4 - Read Review See The Latest Price On Amazon Now

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.


M-Audio AIR 2X2 Image

M-Audio AIR 2X2

  • ✔ Hi-Speed USB-C connection
  • ✔ Studio grade capture
  • ✔ XLR+1/4" TRS combo input
  • ✔ 5-pin MIDI in/out

M-Audio AIR 2X2 is one of the most affordable 2-in/2-out audio interface we've listed.

M-Audio AIR 2X2 - Read Review See The Latest Price On Amazon Now

If you are looking for a high quality audio interface, you should consider the M-Audio AIR 2X2. This device is a USB powered high quality device that can record up to 24 bit/96 kHz. It has two microphone preamps that are able to provide a clean, transparent sound that is free of any noise or hiss. It is compact and easy to use with a simple control panel for you to easily adjust your levels and settings. It can be used for recording, mixing, and even as a MIDI interface for your computer.

Our ears are incredible at picking up the smallest details in the sounds we hear. This makes it hard to get a good sounding recording from a computer with just internal computer speakers. The M-Audio AIR 2X2 is a USB audio interface that features a high-quality, 24-bit/96-kHz audio interface that connects your instrument, mixer, or microphone preamp to your computer. With the M-Audio AIR 2X2 you get the lowest possible latency for recording audio. You can also use the M-Audio AIR 2X2 to record a stereo signal from the computer to your mixer or audio interface.

M-Audio has been making high-quality audio recording devices and interfaces for many years. They are a trusted name in the industry and have been providing musicians and recording artist with high-quality products for years. However, their devices have always been expensive and out of reach of many musicians. The M-Audio AIR 2X2 is a 2 channel audio interface that sells for significantly less than the competition. It is a high-quality interface that is easy to setup and use. The AIR 2X2 will allow you to record audio into your computer from any external device.

Overall, the AIR 2X2 is a good product for the price and the price is good for the product. Two high quality preamps, 24 bit conversion, phantom power, and MIDI I/O are all features of this audio interface, which is a great value for the cost.


Steinberg UR242 Image

Steinberg UR242

  • ✔ Compatible with mac and windows
  • ✔ MIDI input/output & iPad connectivity
  • ✔ USB2.0
  • ✖ Some complaints regarding the latest mac software compatibility

Steinberg is a well-known brand that caters to professional musicians around the world.

Steinberg UR242 - Read Review See The Latest Price On Amazon Now

Steinberg is a well-known brand that caters to professional musicians around the world. The UR242 takes the tops spot on our list as it proves itself to be a great value audio interface and an all-round workhorse.

This audio interface is an ideal piece of kit if you are planning on doing some home recording on a budget of $300 or less. It features a dedicated TRS headphone output, combined microphone/TRS instrument inputs, monitor inputs and MIDI inputs. You also get a copy of Cubase which is one of the most popular DAW’s on the market today.

Steinberg UR242 is an external sound card for both audiophiles and recording enthusiasts. This interface is compatible with both PC and Mac. The UR242 makes it easy to record guitar, vocals, percussion and other instruments from the comfort of your home studio.

This is a relatively inexpensive USB audio interface from a world-famous brand and would be a solid purchase for any home studio.

The UR242 offers musicians and producers far more than just a portable I/O device, or even an audio interface; the UR242 is a mobile production solution. That’s because it combines fantastic-sounding I/O and durability with advanced DSP-based FX that can be used with your DAW software, and that at a price point that is still easily affordable.


Roland Rubix24 Image

Roland Rubix24

  • ✔ MIDI In/Out ports
  • ✔ Extensively shielded, low-noise design
  • ✔ 2 low-noise mic preamps with XLR combo jacks
  • ✔ Compatible with mac, pc and iPad

The Roland Rubix24 is an audio interface which is really designed for recording and mixing purposes.

Roland Rubix24 - Read Review See The Latest Price On Amazon Now

The Roland Rubix24 is an audio interface which is really designed for recording and mixing purposes. It has 2 inputs and 4 outputs. This is more than enough for most home studio recording setups.

Other features include direct monitoring and phantom power, which can be used to power condenser microphones. There are also handy indicators which allow you to monitor your input levels and avoid peaking.

In early 2017, Roland debuted the Rubix line. The Rubix 22, 24, and 44 may not be very exciting to look at, but they are smart choices for up-to-date, mid-range audio interfaces. The Rubix 24, in particular, hits the sweet spot while offering just the right amount of functionality. This is a typical 2-in, 4-out USB interface that’s also class compliant with Apple gear and features MIDI In/Out ports. It handles 24-bit, 192kHz audio and has on-board compressor and limiter effects.

The selectable headphone channel assignments lets you create a separate monitor mix, while the loopback recording feature lets you capture the interface’s main stereo audio output without extra cables or routing. This way, you can easily record live streaming audio from your computer. The Rubix 24 comes with Ableton Live Lite, which is enough of the famous DAW to get you started, but not enough to really appreciate its capabilities.


Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 Image

Focusrite Scarlett 2i4

  • ✔ Includes Pro Tools
  • ✔ Compatible with Mac OS X 10.10 and higher
  • ✔ Two natural-sounding Scarlett mic preamps
  • ✔ Class-leading conversion and sample rates

Claimed to be The best selling USB audio interface in the world.

Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 - Read Review See The Latest Price On Amazon Now

Focusrite continued their market dominance with the 2nd generation Scarlett series of audio interfaces, which included the immensely popular Scarlett 2i4. The company even say it is, “The best selling USB audio interface in the world”.

From the desktop 2i4 and Solo units to the rackmountable 18i20, with eight built-in mic preamps and ADAT digital expandability, there are Scarlett interfaces to suit most studios. In fact, they claim that since its launch in 2011, the 2i4 has become the best-selling USB audio interface in the world. Five years is a long time in music technology, however, and the company have now ‘refreshed’ their range of USB interfaces to reflect new developments and changing priorities.

With its Saffire range of interfaces remaining popular but now a well-established brand, it’s perhaps no surprise that a new, even more compact range has been released, by the name of Scarlett. Featuring bold styling, tank-like construction and, of course, the fabled preamps, the question is, does it offer enough to pique the interest and requirements of a new audio interface generation?

The Focusrite Scarlett is a range of audio interfaces that cover pretty much every scenario. But in the budget end the 2i4 gives a decent step up from the Native Instruments Audio 2. The 2i4, as with the Audio 2, has two pre-amped microphone inputs that can also support guitars or line level. There’s a direct monitoring switch and a nice big volume knob.eadphones and on the back, you get jack outputs and RCA phonos for different output options. You have pad switches on the inputs for some instant gain reduction. A balancing knob for monitoring and a headphone output where you can choose which outputs you are listening to. The LED monitoring is shown as a ring around the gain knobs which is quite nice, although less precise than the 5 segments on the Audio 2. The MIDI In/Out ports are very useful if you have external MIDI gear.

Welcome as all these hardware tweaks are, it’s Focusrite’s software engineers who have delivered the headline improvements in these second-generation Scarletts. However, the fruits of their work vary depending on which model you have. The smaller, bus-powered models, including the 2i4, have no control panel software of their own. On Mac OS, the Scarletts use Apple’s class-compliant driver, as do many other rival interfaces; but, interestingly, the company offer an optional utility which can reduce its operating audio delay.

All in all, this interface is exactly what you’d expect from Focsurite – a great-sounding, well-designed interface that packs plenty of flexibility into its slender frame. A lack of digital I/O may prove a stumbling block for some but for such a modest price, this interface deserves to sell by the truckload.

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 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 2i4 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.

The solid build, clear sound, and low latency make the 2nd gen 2i4 a good option for an inexpensive entry-level audio interface. Great for recording guitars and vocals, especially for beginners. The main downside with the 2i4 is the limited amount of inputs and outputs. Other similarly-priced brands like the Steinberg UR22MII and PreSonus AudioBox iTwo add MIDI in and outs and iPad support, but most MIDI equipment support USB anyway so it’s not a big advantage unless you have a specific desire for it.

It comes in a rugged red box with all the controls on the front rather than having some on the top like the Audio 2. You get a neat bundle of software including some exclusive plugins, Ableton Live Lite, and Pro Tools First. Being a consistent top selling audio interface for many years, the Scarlett 2i4 2nd Gen is easy to recommend. Especially for those who want good sound quality mixed with eye candies.


Behringer U-Phoria Audio Interface Image

Behringer U-Phoria Audio Interface

  • ✔ Extremely affordable audio interface with 8-channels
  • ✔ Plenty of input/output types
  • ✔ Durable, impact-resistant metal chassis
  • ✔ Rack-mountable

The U-Phoria UMC1820 Audiophile by Behringer is the most affordable 8-channel audio interface.

Behringer U-Phoria Audio Interface - Read Review See The Latest Price On Amazon Now
Description

The U-Phoria UMC1820 Audiophile by Behringer is the most affordable 8-channel audio interface that we’ve featured on this list.

It’s compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems and works with all major DAWs, including Pro Tools, Ableton Live, Cubase, etc.

The unit is designed and built-in Germany and features 8 MIDAS designed microphone preamps, which is definitely a firm selling point.

All of the channels provide an optional 48v phantom power, great if you’re using condenser microphones.

As for the audio interface’s inputs/outputs, it has a diverse range of ports, including both combination XLR/TRS, TRS, ADAT, MIDI & SPDIF (all of which are specified above in the technical specs section.

The interface provides 96kHz/24-bit recording resolution, and it delivers zero-latency direct monitoring on all analog inputs whilst recording.

Overall, when taking into account the UMC1820’s price, I/O’s, features and 3-year manufacturers warranty, it’s easy to see why it’s an attractive prospect and ultimately a great buy for someone looking for a very affordable 8-channel audio interface.

Compatibility
  • Mac & PC
  • Supports all major DAWs
Features
  • Extremely affordable audio interface with 8-channels
  • Plenty of input/output types
  • Durable, impact-resistant metal chassis
  • Rack-mountable
  • Eight state of the art MIDAS designed preamps
  • Designed & engineered in Germany
  • Warranty: 3-year manufacturers warranty
Technical Specs
  • USB 2.0 connectivity
  • MIDI input/output
  • 2 XLR/TRS combination inputs (on the front)
  • 6 XLR/TRS combination inputs (on the back)
  • 8 TRS outputs (on the back)
  • 2 ‘main’ TRS outputs (on the back)
  • ADAT input/output
  • SPDIF input/output
  • Supports all major DAWs
  • 24-bit/96 kHz resolution
  • 48v Phantom Power
Pros
  • The brand is well-known and reputable
  • Product is well-reviewed and scores favorably in customer review ratings
  • Includes a diverse range of inputs/outputs
  • Impressive technical specifications
  • Comes with a 3-year manufacturers warranty
Cons
  • There’s a single phantom power switch for all 8 channels

Native Instruments Komplete Audio 6 Image

Native Instruments Komplete Audio 6

  • ✔ High-quality pre-amps
  • ✔ Low-latency performance
  • ✔ Mono input switch for recording vocals or guitars
  • ✔ Direct monitoring for live

This is a great audio interface from industry favorite Native Instruments.

Native Instruments Komplete Audio 6 - Read Review See The Latest Price On Amazon Now

Audio interfaces have been getting smaller and smaller in the last few years, with the introduction of the mini-jack. However, a low quality sound is still being produced through these mini-jack devices. The Native Instruments KA6 is a high quality interface that has been designed and manufactured to be used with a professional studio.

Native Instruments KA6 is designed to deliver a studio quality audio experience to your computer. It is designed by Native Instruments, a company that has been providing musicians with the best in music production equipment for years.

The Komplete Audio 6 is Native Instruments' most affordable interface ever. The new interface features the same high-quality preamps as the older models. As well as a host of upgrades that make it a bit easier to use.

The Native Instruments KA6 is the perfect solution for your home studio. It is easy to use, sounds great, and works with virtually any piece of recording software, such as Pro Tools. The audio interface is equipped with two microphone inputs with analog compression, phantom power, and high-quality 24-bit converters. It is also features stereo inputs for your instruments, a pair of balanced line outputs, and a single headphone output.

When it comes to recording, the quality of your recording equipment is important, especially if you want to record high quality audio. Native Instruments KA6 is used by professionals to record their tracks. It has a wide range of uses in any home recording studio. It is a perfect way to set up a home recording studio for those on a budget.


More Information Regarding Great Value Audio Interfaces (2024)

Connection Types

Good Value audio 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 best value audio interfaces available on the market.

Prices

The price of top quality best value 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 best value 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

The best value 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 value 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.

What Are The Best Value Audio Interfaces

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

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