9 Best Budget Audio Interfaces For Excellent Recording Results!
Are you looking for the best budget audio interface to help you make better-sounding recordings? If so, knowing what features are necessary and helpful to get the best possible results is essential.
Which is the best budget audio interface?
You may have heard that USB interfaces are the most convenient due to their low cost and ease of use—and they can be! However, if you’re serious about making great music, plenty of other factors should be considered when choosing an audio interface. In this article, we’ll review some of those factors and list our top picks for the best audio interfaces based on price and performance.
- Focusrite Clarett+ 2Pre
- Audient iD44
- SSL 2+ Audio Interface
- Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 3rd Gen
- Arturia MiniFuse 2
- Ik Multimedia iRig Pro Duo I/O
- M-Audio M-Track Solo
- Audient EVO 4
- Mackie Onyx Producer 2X2
1. Focusrite Clarett+ 2Pre
If you’re just starting out, you’ll want an interface that is easy to use and won’t break the bank. Enter the Clarett+ 2Pre by Focusrite. This great entry-level interface gives you everything you need to get started, without being overwhelming.
The Clarett+ 2Pre features two excellent mic preamps, which are perfect for recording vocals and acoustic instruments. The preamps are designed to produce minimal distortion and coloration, so you’ll always get a clear, accurate sound.
This interface comes with two combo mic/line/instrument inputs, so you can plug your XLR mic or guitar/bass/keyboard directly into the interface. This is a great feature if you want to record directly into your DAW without going through an amp first.
It gives you professional recording quality, with a maximum resolution of 24-bit/192kHz. This means that you’ll be able to capture every nuance of your performance, whether you’re recording vocals, and acoustic or electric instruments.
The Clarett+ 2Pre is compatible with both Mac and PC, so no matter what type of computer you have, you’ll be able to use this interface. It’s also compatible with all major DAWs, so you’ll be able to use whatever software you’re most comfortable with.
Key Features
- 2 ultra-low noise Clarett+ mic preamps
- Air circuit engages an analog model of classic transformer-based ISA mic pre
- Super-low-latency recording with amp simulators and effects plug-ins
- Ultra-low distortion; Mac/PC-compatible, USB 2.0 and above
- Connects to Mac or PC using included standard USB and USB Type-C cables
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an easy-to-use, affordable audio interface that will give you professional results, the Clarett+ 2Pre from Focusrite is a great option.
Price: $449 USD
2. Audient iD44
The Audient iD44 is a great piece of gear for digital audio workstations and studios. It has four Class-A mic preamps, which means it’ll provide you with a lot of headroom and high-quality sound when recording vocals or instruments. It also has two headphone outputs and two speaker outputs so you can have more flexibility when working on your own projects or collaborating with others in the studio.
The iD44‘s four Class-A Audient console mic preamps are known for their high-quality and transparency. They have a wide range of gain, providing you with plenty of headroom to work with even at the highest gain setting.
These preamps also boast very low noise levels, making them ideal for recording quiet sources like vocals or acoustic instruments.
The iD44 has two sets of stereo line inputs with balanced TRS jacks that can be used as an alternative to the mic inputs if you decide against using one or more mics during your session (for example, if you’re recording just your voice).
This makes it easy to plug in an audio interface and start recording with no additional gear required!
The iD44 uses JFET instrument inputs, which are known to provide a pristine signal path, unlike the more common RCA inputs. The Burr-Brown converter technology used in the iD44 also helps ensure that your audio will be of high fidelity.
The iD44 also has two headphone outputs and two speaker outputs which are great for having more flexibility when you’re working on your own projects or collaborating with others in the studio.
Key Features
- 4 x Audient Console Mic Preamps
- Class Leading Converters
- 2 x JFET Instrument InputS
- Independent Headphone Stereo Outputs
- Fully Balanced Inserts
- 2 x Digital Inputs + Outputs
Conclusion
The Audient iD44 is a fantastic digital audio interface that offers a lot of features for the price. This makes it a great choice for people who need a high-quality audio interface, but don’t want to spend thousands of dollars on one. It’s also a good option if you’re recording vocals or instruments at home or in the studio, as it has ample inputs and outputs to accommodate any setup.
Price: $499 USD
3. Solid State Logic SSL2+
Solid State Logic has been one of the dominant forces in audio recording for over forty years, with a legacy of superior large-format consoles, studio outboard gear, and world-class plugin processors. Now, you can have the iconic SSL sound in your home studio with the SSL2+ USB audio interface.
The SSL2+ comes stocked with a set of pro-grade preamps, amazing 24-bit/192 kHz converters, and a host of helpful I/O options, including four line outputs, two headphone jacks (accessible on the front and back panel with the option to monitor two separate stereo mixes), and 5-pin DIN MIDI in and out.
A unique 4K Legacy mode allows you to add SSL 4000 series analog console magic to your recordings with the push of a button, and an extensive production pack includes the software you need to get started recording instantly.
Key Features
- Legendary SSL sound for your home or portable studio
- 2 class-leading microphone preamps
- Pristine 24-bit/192kHz AKM converters
- Solid build quality, with heavy-duty chassis, Neutrik connectors, and Alps pots
Conclusion
The Solid State Logic SSL2+ USB Audio Interface is a high-quality, cost-effective option and is easy to install and use, thanks to its included software, which allows you to record up to 24 channels at once. It’s compatible with Windows XP or later and Mac OS X 10.5 or later.
Price: $299
4. Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 (3rd Generation)
The Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 audio interface is a great choice for musicians and producers looking for a recording front end with plenty of connectivity. This device allows you to record up to four mono sources or two stereo line sources such as synths or drum machines.
Two highly regarded Focusrite mic/instrument preamps are inside, with convenient combo inputs on the front panel where you need them, while the back panel displays two balanced line inputs and four balanced line outputs, plus MIDI I/O. The third-generation Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 advances the best-in-class USB audio interfaces with two upgraded Scarlett mic preamps, high-performance 24-bit/192kHz AD/DA converters, optimized preamp gain structure, diminishing low latency, and instrument inputs that handle blazing hot pickups.
In this 3rd generation, the mic preamps feature Focusrite’s acclaimed Air mode that provides the coveted Air effect that models the company’s legendary ISA console transformer to give your voice and instrument recordings a brighter, more open sound. The Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 is an ideal foundation for your home or mobile studio.
Key Features
- High-performance 24-bit/192kHz converters
- 2 upgraded 3rd-generation Scarlett mic preamps
- Switchable Air mode gives your recordings a brighter, more open sound
- 2 high-headroom instrument inputs for bass, guitar, or synths
- Rear panel: 2 balanced line inputs, 4 balanced line outputs, MIDI I/O
- Unique, intuitive halo level indicators for optimized gain staging
Conclusion
Overall, the Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 is a rock solid, reliable entry-level interface that gives more than a few more expensive options a run for their money.
Price: $249 USD
5. Arturia MiniFuse 2
The Arturia MiniFuse 2 is a compact USB audio interface perfect for your home studio and mobile recording setup and may be the best entry-level audio interface. It features two excellent preamps and has top-of-field fidelity while supporting sample rates up to 192kHz. You’ll also find a USB-A hub port for reduced studio clutter, supporting all USB-A devices, including MIDI, up to 250 milliamps.
The Arturia MiniFuse 2 is an outstanding desktop unit, but it also doubles as an over-the-road recording option. With its light but rugged aluminum casing, the portable MiniFuse 2 is perfect for tossing in your gig bag. Liven up your music by recording anywhere you like.
This impressive interface produces a 110dB dynamic range and a world-class input noise of -129dB. These specifications would impress even the best studio engineers. Give your music the sonically-pleasing punch and clarity it deserves, all right there in your home recording studio!
Key Features
- Portable, bus-powered 2-in/2-out USB-C audio interface
- 2 mic/instrument/line combo preamps with phantom power
- 1 headphone output with independent volume control and input/USB mix knob
- Traditional 5-pin MIDI DIN I/O for synths, drum machines, and MIDI-enabled processors
- 1 stereo virtual loopback channel for capturing computer audio — great for content creators!
- Supplementary USB-A Hub port reduces clutter, supporting any USB-A device up to 250mA
- Supports 44.1/48/88.2/96/192kHz sample rate
- Fully USB 2.0 compatible
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a sturdy, portable audio interface that produces good sound quality while being easy to use, the Arturia MiniFuse 2 is definitely worth checking out. The price is right, the build quality is great and it’s extremely portable. Talk about affordable. For $150, it can do more than most, especially, if you’re starting out. Definitely, among the best budget audio interfaces for the money.
Price: $149 USD
6. IK Multimedia iRig Pro Duo I/O
Your on-the-go studio! The perfect combination of professional performance and value, the iRig Pro Duo I/O compact 2-channel audio interface lets you connect to iPhone, iPad, Android, and Mac/PC. And, it is accessible to everyone from the beginner to the professional user.
For recording, mixing, and more, this compact audio mixer possesses two Neutrik analog inputs to record mics and your preferred instruments with two line-level RCA inputs to connect mixers, keyboards, audio players, and more, noise-free. Get started in no time because there’s no software to install. This portable studio interface is powered by two AA batteries (included) or an optional power supply unit.
Connect your microphone to the combo mic/headphone jack, and simultaneously listen, in real-time, through the headphones with direct monitoring. This portable interface offers clear monitoring and tremendous sound quality, optimized for reliability and accuracy! Plus, it’s tough with a rubberized finish and textured controls for reliable use in the field. MIDI IN/OUT jacks turn iRig Pro Duo I/O into a full-fledged MIDI interface, also.
This USB audio interface requires no adapters, unlike other audio interfaces. It also comes with Lightning and USB-C and USB-A cables in the box, so there’s nothing to lose. Whether you’re recording music, videos, podcasts or livestreams, you’ll have all you need to get started!
Key Features
- Road-ready interface perfect for capturing inspiration when it strikes
- 2 combo mic/instrument inputs with Class A mic preamps with 48v phantom power
- MIDI connectivity via 2.5mm I/O jacks (breakout cables included)
- Compatible with iOS, Android, Mac, and PC (Lightning, USB-C, and USB-A cables included)
- Power options: 2 AA Batteries (included), USB bus power, or additional power supply
- 1/4″ TRS Outputs and 3.5mm headphone jack with switchable direct monitor mode
Conclusion
The IK Multimedia iRig Pro DuoI/O is an excellent audio interface for musicians and podcasters who like simple, portable, straightforward gear that just works. It provides the necessary connections you need to get up and running with either a microphone or instrument and makes it very easy to record.
Price: $179 USD
7. M-Audio M-Track Solo
The M-Audio M-Track Solo was meant for singer/songwriters, podcasters, and solo musicians. It’s a cheap audio interface but it gives you a top-of-the-line mic preamp and extremely accurate DI for guitar, bass, and keyboard. A 1/8″ headphone jack and stereo outputs let you listen with headphones or desktop speakers. The M-Audio M-Track Solo audio interface’s output switch lets you listen to your tracks any way you want.
You can monitor direct for zero-latency monitoring of your inputs, letting you experience your performance clearly, with zero lag in the returning signal. USB monitoring lets you hear all the plug-ins and processing as you advance through a track.
Key Features
- 2-in/2-out 2-channel USB interface for Mac and PC
- Instrument input accommodates guitar, bass, keyboard, and more
- Combo input and Crystal preamp helps your mic sound better than ever
- Advanced A/D converters faithfully capture the emotion of your performances
- Switchable +48V phantom power feeds studio condenser microphones
- USB/Direct switch tailors your monitoring output
- Headphone output with independent level control
Conclusion
The M-Track Solo‘s portable, high-quality capability makes it perfect for musicians and performers who want to record on the go. You can’t go wrong with the price tag either as you can pick up this unit for around $50!
Price: $49 USD
8. Audient EVO 4
Audient has developed the EVO 4 USB audio interface to help serve the continuously growing group of independent musicians, songwriters and podcasters and give them an excellent tool to record high-quality music and podcasts.
It features two transparent EVO 4 preamps, a JFET instrument input, 24-bit/96kHz, ultra-low latency performance and an intuitive and ground-breaking Smartgain automatic level setting function. The EVO 4 has everything you need to start your recording journey. And, for established artists, it is an ideal travel companion — super portable with uncompromising sound.
The innovative Smartgain function, which helps you set gain fast and accurately so you can get the creative process started without worrying about clipping or distortion. To make it work, press the Smartgain button and select the channels you want to record. The Smartgain LED flashes red to indicate that it’s listening. Once you start playing, singing, or speaking into your mic the Smartgain will automatically — and correctly — set the input level. Smartgain is a total game-changer for beginners, podcasters, and solo artists and it will speed up the recording process and give you outstanding results every time!
Key Features
- 2 transparent Audient EVO preamps
- JFET instrument input
- Class-leading conversion
- Ultra-low latency performance
- 24-bit/96kHz sample rate
- Front-panel headphone jacks
- Stereo monitor outputs
- Bus-powered over USB 2.0
- Smartgain automatic level-setting feature
- Loopback functionality
- EVO Control app
Conclusion
If you’re in the market for a new audio interface and are looking for something that is both affordable and packed with features, the Audient EVO 4 should be at the top of your list. With its Smartgain feature, you’ll never have to worry about distortion again, making it the perfect choice for anyone who wants great-sounding recordings without having to spend a fortune.
Price: $129
9. Mackie Onyx Producer 2-2
Content creators and singer/songwriters alike will, certainly, love the Mackie Onyx Producer 2-2. High-res 24-bit/192kHz converters coupled with top-shelf analog circuitry to deliver premium sound.
Two custom-sounding Onyx mic preamps gives outstanding fidelity and dynamic range and their XLR/TRS combo inputs accommodate just about every connection. It also has a hi-Z switch on each channel for recording your guitar or bass with a DI. Direct monitoring, zero-latency and a headphone output make tracking simple.
You can hook up your synthesizers, controllers, and other midi-capable hardware easily, courtesy of built-in MIDI connectivity. Compact and capable, the Mackie Onyx Producer 2-2 is a great way to capture every single performance.
The Mackie Onyx Producer 2-2 uses a true analog signal path right from its preamps to your monitoring source. Simply put, you can track while monitoring with no digital routing and no latency.
Key Features
- 2-in-2-out USB 2.0 audio interface with fast speed and low latency
- 24-bit/192kHz converters combine with premium analog circuitry to deliver top-notch sound
- 2 boutique-sounding Onyx mic preamps provide excellent fidelity and dynamic range
- +48v phantom power for your studio condenser mics
- XLR/TRS combo inputs accommodate just about everything
- hi-Z switch on each channel for DI-ing your guitar or bass
- Zero-latency direct monitoring and a headphone output make tracking a breeze
- MIDI I/O for hooking up synths, controllers, and other hardware
- Bus-powered for the ultimate in portability
- Built-Like-A-Tank design withstands day-to-day abuse
Conclusion
The Mackie Onyx Producer 2-2 is a great interface for both musicians and producers. It offers excellent sound quality and is very easy to use. It also comes with all of the necessary cables and connectors. If you’re looking for a good interface, then the Mackie Onyx Producer 2-2 should definitely be on your list of options.
Price: $139 USD
Summary
If you’re looking to start your own digital recording studio or just want to get better sound quality out of your current setup, an audio interface is an essential piece of equipment. We hope that this article has helped you make a decision about which one is right for you and your budget! Can’t really go wrong with any of them.
What is an audio interface and what does it do?
An audio interface is a piece of hardware that facilitates the transfer of audio signals between a computer and other devices. They come in all shapes and sizes, with a variety of features and price points. In this blog post, we’ve given you our choices as the best audio interface for home studios, as well as, the best audio interface on a budget, the best high-end audio interface, the best audio interface for guitar and introduced you to some of the most popular models on the market.
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