10 bestCheap Audio Interfacesof May 2025
112M consumers helped this year.
1
Behringer UMC404HD Audiophile 4x4, 24-Bit 192 kHz USB Audio/MIDI Interface with Midas Mic Preamplifiers for Recording Microphones and Instruments
Behringer
10.0
25% off
2
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording, Songwriting, Streaming and Podcasting — High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, and All the Software You Need to Record
Focusrite
10.0
15% off
3
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording, Songwriting, & Streaming — High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, with Transparent Playback
Focusrite
9.9
15% off
4
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB Audio Interface, for the Guitarist, Vocalist, or Producer — High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, and All the Software You Need to Record
Focusrite
9.9
5
Behringer UMC22 Audiophile 2x2, 48 kHz USB Audio Interface with Midas Mic Preamplifier for Recording Microphones and Instruments
Behringer
9.7
OtherUp to 27% off
Behringer UMC204HD Audiophile 2x4, 24-Bit/192 kHz USB Audio/MIDI Interface with Midas Mic Preamplifiers,Black
M-Audio AIR 192x6 USB C MIDI Audio Interface for Recording, Podcasting, Streaming, Studio Quality Sound, 2 XLR in and Music Production Software
PreSonus Studio 24c, USB-C, Audio Interface, For Recording, Streaming, Podcasting with Software Bundle Including Studio One Artist, Ableton Live Lite DAW
Focusrite Clarett+ 4Pre USB Studio-Grade Audio Interface for Music Makers — Four Low-Noise, Low-Distortion Mic Preamps providing True-To-Life Sound
6
Behringer U-CONTROL UCA222 Ultra-Low Latency 2 In/2 Out USB Audio Interface with Digital Output, Compatible with PC and Mac, Red
Behringer
9.4
7
Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface Recording, Producing And Engineering High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, With Transparent Playback
Focusrite
9.2
12% off
8
M-Audio M-Track Solo – USB Audio Interface for Recording, Streaming and Podcasting with XLR, Line and DI Inputs, Plus a Software Suite Included
M-Audio
8.9
12% off
9
M-Audio M-Track Duo – USB Audio Interface for Recording, Streaming and Podcasting with Dual XLR, Line & DI Inputs, plus a Software Suite Included
M-Audio
8.6
10
Tascam DR-40X portable four-track audio recorder and USB interface
TASCAM
8.3
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A Guide to Selecting the Best Cheap Audio Interfaces
Choosing the right audio interface can significantly impact the quality of your recordings and overall audio experience. An audio interface is a device that connects your musical instruments, microphones, and other audio equipment to your computer, allowing you to record and playback high-quality sound. When selecting an audio interface, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your needs and enhances your audio production capabilities.
Number of Inputs and Outputs
The number of inputs and outputs on an audio interface determines how many devices you can connect simultaneously. Inputs are used for connecting microphones, instruments, and other audio sources, while outputs are for connecting speakers, headphones, and other playback devices. If you plan to record multiple instruments or microphones at once, you'll need an interface with more inputs. For basic recording needs, 2-4 inputs and outputs are usually sufficient.
Audio Quality (Bit Depth and Sample Rate)
Audio quality is defined by the bit depth and sample rate of the interface. Bit depth affects the dynamic range and noise level of your recordings, with higher bit depths providing better quality. Sample rate determines how many samples per second are taken from the audio signal, with higher rates offering more detailed sound. Common bit depths are 16-bit and 24-bit, while sample rates range from 44.1 kHz to 192 kHz. For most users, 24-bit/48 kHz is a good balance between quality and file size.
Connectivity
Connectivity refers to how the audio interface connects to your computer. Common connection types include USB, Thunderbolt, and FireWire. USB interfaces are widely compatible and easy to use, making them a popular choice for beginners. Thunderbolt offers faster data transfer rates and lower latency, ideal for professional use. FireWire is less common but still used in some professional setups. Choose the connection type that matches your computer's ports and your performance needs.
Phantom Power
Phantom power is a feature that supplies power to condenser microphones, which require an external power source to operate. If you plan to use condenser microphones for recording vocals or instruments, ensure your audio interface has phantom power capabilities. This feature is usually indicated by a +48V switch on the interface.
Preamp Quality
Preamp quality affects the clarity and warmth of the sound captured by your microphones. Higher-quality preamps provide better sound amplification and less noise. If you are recording vocals or acoustic instruments, investing in an interface with good preamps can make a noticeable difference in your recordings. Look for interfaces with reputable preamp brands or user reviews that highlight preamp performance.
Latency
Latency is the delay between when an audio signal is input into the interface and when it is heard through the output. Lower latency is crucial for real-time monitoring and recording, as high latency can be distracting and affect performance. USB interfaces typically have higher latency compared to Thunderbolt interfaces. If you need real-time monitoring, choose an interface with low latency specifications.
Software Compatibility
Software compatibility ensures that the audio interface works seamlessly with your digital audio workstation (DAW) and other recording software. Most interfaces are compatible with major DAWs like Pro Tools, Ableton Live, and Logic Pro. Check the interface's specifications to ensure it supports your preferred software and operating system. Some interfaces also come with bundled software, which can be a bonus for beginners.
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