14 Best Audio Interfaces For Home Studio

Table of Content

• Best audio interfaces: Product guide
• RAM vs. CPU: Which Is THE Crucial Factor For Music Production?
• SubZero SZ-MIX06USB 6-Channel USB Mixer/Interface
• Get industry-quality every time (steal this framework)
• The Best USB Microphone
• Best Audio Interfaces – Video Tutorial
• Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface

The original purpose of purchasing it was to backup the drive; however, I discovered that not only is it extremely fast, but it is also very quiet – far superior to any of my previous 7200 drives. Furthermore, it is capable of being kept cool even under heavy loads. If you want to see massive improvements in performance, you’ll need to buy SSDs.

A switchable Air mode will add extra clarity to your vocals when recording with your Scarlett Solo. Loaded with 2 pristine XMAX-L solid-state mic preamps to capture every detail. Mobile-ready, bus-powered 2-in/2-out USB-C audio interface; no power supply needed (USB-C to C and USB-C to A cables included). AI is known as Artificial Intelligence; AI allows simulating human intelligence expressed through available programs, machines, or devices.

Best audio interfaces: Product guide

Given the amount of connections it utilizes, you could find this essentially useful if you only planned on using one instrument and microphone setup in my studio. Also, looks beautiful, with a solid and hefty design that seems perfect for carrying around. For zero-latency direct monitoring, we have a fader to mix between our DAW and analog inputs. However, this will affect both your monitors and headphones collectively. You’ll also be better off relying on your DAW’s meters for accurate gain-staging. Starting with the XLR + ¼” inputs, Mackie has also included individual Hi-Z switches to accommodate high-impedance instruments such as guitars.

That takes a load off of your computer to process a bunch of plugins. The interface also has a great monitoring system with a large volume knob, mono switch, dim switch, and talkback feature. UA has become one of the most sought-after interface companies in the audio world. As far as outputs go, the Octa-Capture has a headphone jack and eight TRS outputs. You can plug those straight into the interface with no coloring of the sound.

RAM vs. CPU: Which Is THE Crucial Factor For Music Production?

There are also two instrument level inputs for plugging in guitars, both of which are designed for low noise and full dynamic range. You also get 12 analog outputs, and an additional 18 channels of digital I/O (ADAT and S/PDIF). MOTU has long been known for producing audio recording equipment that delivers quality results, and it has clearly outdone itself with the 1248. This connections can be expanded via SPDIF I/O coaxial and ADAT optical digital connectors to give up a massive 26 audio inputs and 28 outputs in total.

MIDI In/Out and an additional independent headphone out are also included, which is great news for anyone who wants to be able to monitor different mixes simultaneously. Recording an orchestra, you can expand your number of inputs by utilizing S/PDIF and ADAT. If you’re going to be out and about playing gigs or recording at a friends’ house, then you might want something that’s a little more portable like the Zoom H4n Pro.

SubZero SZ-MIX06USB 6-Channel USB Mixer/Interface

Other positives about this interface are that it has phantom power on/off buttons and zero-latency monitoring for both input channels. One feature I wish they had added to the M2, however, is a mix dial for the mix between zero-latency monitoring and computer playback. This may not be a deal-breaker for you though and if you really want this feature then the M4 model does include this feature.

That’s still not all; you get Apogee’s ECS Channel Strip including EQ, compression, and saturation — optimized by Bob Clearmountain himself. Your purchase also includes Control 2 software and Apogee’s Channel FX plug-in. The RME Fireface UFX+ builds upon the capabilities of its popular predecessor with MADI I/O, boosted DSP, and ultra-low-latency Thunderbolt connectivity. It sounds unbelievably clean and transparent, thanks to pro-level AD/DA converters and optimized analog I/O circuits. Its four high-grade mic preamps with +18dBu maximum input level and 75dB of gain will capture any source with extreme accuracy.

First, you have to find and choose the right input; next, you only have to turn on the track’s recording feature. Having established that your computer can communicate with your interface, you must next configure your digital audio workstation to make use of it. When your computer does recognize your audio interface, the next thing to do is to adjust your system-wide audio settings.

The Steinberg AXR4 oozes quality from every pore, making it a serious contender in the pro audio interfacing arena. Zen Tour is its 8-in/14-out compact desktop-style interface and this has now been upgraded to Synergy Core with 2 FGPA and four DSP chips delivering up to 256 FX instances. When I do an update or a new post, I will definitely give more serious consideration to the new Motu devices you mentioned. Feel free to contact me with your thoughts on the Motu you use for a future post update.

Right off the bat, the 1248 makes a strong impression with its staggering array of I/Os. It has no less than 32 inputs and 34 outputs, giving you the ability to record everything from string quartets to symphony orchestras. The headphone preamp is also identical to the one found in the Symphony Mk2! The fact that the Element 24 uses Thunderbolt technology also results in ultra-low latency. Apogee claims to have achieved 1.41ms round trip latency at 96kHz and a buffer size of 32 samples.

When you purchase the U-phoria UMC404HD you receive a refreshingly minimal package. What you simply get is just a great sounding audio interface, with lots of connections. Some may still like getting the “extra package,” like software, plugins, and sounds (even if they don’t end up using them). Bottom-line, the Steinberg UR28M comes very close to being the best audio interface for home studio you can find on the market for the money. It has a unique analog circuitry and great sound preamps, ideal for serious music producers, mixing, and mastering engineers. Mixers are useful for live music or when working in a large studio.