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10 Best Audio Interfaces 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording, Songwriting, Streaming and Podcasting — High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, and All the Software You Need to Record
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen is a solid choice for anyone looking to record or stream with professional-sounding quality without needing complicated gear. It offers 2 inputs and 2 outputs, which suits solo musicians, podcasters, and small setups. The audio quality is impressive, featuring a 120dB dynamic range and the same converters used in top studio equipment, ensuring clear, detailed sound. Its USB-C connection makes it easy to plug into most computers and even some tablets and smartphones, offering good versatility. It provides phantom power for condenser microphones, which is essential for many vocal and instrument mics.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,127
Latency
Preamp Quality
Build Quality and Portability
Most important from
32904 reviews
#2
Tascam Model 12 All-in-One 12-track Digital Multitrack Mixing and Recording Studio, Mixer, USB Audio Interface and DAW Controller
The Tascam Model 12 is a versatile audio interface and mixing console that packs a lot into one unit, making it ideal for musicians or podcasters who want to record multiple sources at once. It offers 12 inputs and 10 outputs, which is generous for home studios or small sessions. The inclusion of 1-knob compressors and 3-band EQ on each input helps shape sound without needing extra gear. Connectivity via USB is straightforward and it doubles as a DAW controller, which adds convenience when recording or mixing on a computer. Dual headphone outputs with separate volume controls allow monitoring by two people, a nice touch for collaboration. The build is solid but weighs nearly 13 pounds, so it’s more of a desktop setup than something ultra-portable.
Rating
7.6
Number of Inputs and Outputs
Audio Quality (Bit Depth and Sample Rate)
Connectivity
Most important from
341 reviews
#3
MOTU 16A 32x34 Thunderbolt 4/USB4 audio interface for Mac, Windows and iOS with mixing, effects and networking
The MOTU 16A is a high-end audio interface designed for professionals or serious home studio users who need a large number of inputs and outputs, with 32 inputs and 34 outputs totaling 66 channels. It supports top-tier audio quality with 24-bit depth and sample rates up to 192 kHz, thanks to ESS Sabre32 converters, ensuring clear and precise sound. Connectivity is very versatile, using Thunderbolt 4 and USB4, which works with Mac, Windows, and iOS devices, including iPads. This flexibility is excellent for users who might work across different platforms. Phantom power is included, making it compatible with condenser microphones. The interface boasts very low latency—around 1.8 ms at 96 kHz—so real-time recording and monitoring feel responsive and natural. Preamp quality is implied to be high, given MOTU's longstanding reputation and the emphasis on superb analog audio. The build is solid but somewhat heavy at 11 pounds, so it’s better suited for a fixed studio setup rather than frequent portability.
Top 10 Best Audio Interfaces 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording, Songwriting, Streaming and Podcasting — High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, and All the Software You Need to Record
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording, Songwriting, Streaming and Podcasting — High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, and All the Software You Need to Record
Number of Inputs and Outputs: 2 inputs, 2 outputs
Connectivity: USB-C, USB 2.0
Phantom Power: Yes
Latency: Low
Preamp Quality: Clean, transparent sound, Air mode
Build Quality and Portability: Aluminum, compact, sturdy
Software and Compatibility: Software bundle, Mac, Windows, iOS, ChromeOS
Chosen by 1127 this week
Tascam Model 12 All-in-One 12-track Digital Multitrack Mixing and Recording Studio, Mixer, USB Audio Interface and DAW Controller
Tascam Model 12 All-in-One 12-track Digital Multitrack Mixing and Recording Studio, Mixer, USB Audio Interface and DAW Controller
Number of Inputs and Outputs: 12 inputs, 10 outputs
Connectivity: USB
Phantom Power: Included
Build Quality and Portability: Solid build, 12.8 lbs, desktop
Software and Compatibility: DAW controller functionality
MOTU 16A 32x34 Thunderbolt 4/USB4 audio interface for Mac, Windows and iOS with mixing, effects and networking
MOTU 16A 32x34 Thunderbolt 4/USB4 audio interface for Mac, Windows and iOS with mixing, effects and networking
Number of Inputs and Outputs: 32 inputs, 34 outputs, 66 channels
Audio Quality (Bit Depth and Sample Rate): 24-bit, up to 192 kHz
Connectivity: Thunderbolt 4, USB4, AVB Ethernet
Phantom Power: Included
Latency: 1.8 ms at 96 kHz
Build Quality and Portability: Solid build, 11 lbs, fixed studio
Software and Compatibility: Windows, macOS, iOS, all audio software
Universal Audio Apollo x16 Heritage Edition
Universal Audio Apollo x16 Heritage Edition
Number of Inputs and Outputs: 16 channels
Audio Quality (Bit Depth and Sample Rate): elite-class A/D and D/A
Connectivity: Thunderbolt 3
Build Quality and Portability: large form factor
Software and Compatibility: Mac OS, LUNA Recording System
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Universal Audio Apollo Twin X QUAD Gen 2 Essentials + Edition Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface
Universal Audio Apollo Twin X QUAD Gen 2 Essentials + Edition Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface
Number of Inputs and Outputs: 32 channels
Connectivity: Thunderbolt 3
Phantom Power: included
Latency: low latency
Preamp Quality: Unison preamps, authentic analog tone
Build Quality and Portability: 4 pounds, 8x8 inches
Software and Compatibility: Supports Pro Tools, Logic, Ableton, Cubase
M-AUDIO M-Track Duo HD Audio Interface, M100 Condenser Microphone and HDH41 Studio Monitoring Headphones for Recording, Producers, Content Creators and Podcasters
M-AUDIO M-Track Duo HD Audio Interface, M100 Condenser Microphone and HDH41 Studio Monitoring Headphones for Recording, Producers, Content Creators and Podcasters
Number of Inputs and Outputs: 2 inputs and outputs
Audio Quality (Bit Depth and Sample Rate): 24-bit, 192kHz
Connectivity: USB-C, headphone, instrument, line, mic
Phantom Power: Included
Latency: Zero-latency monitoring
Preamp Quality: Enough gain for most recordings
Build Quality and Portability: Compact, portable, for home or studio
Software and Compatibility: Ableton Live Lite, MPC Beats, Reason+
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Guitarists, Vocalists, Podcasters or Producers to record and playback studio quality sound
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Guitarists, Vocalists, Podcasters or Producers to record and playback studio quality sound
Number of Inputs and Outputs: 2
Audio Quality (Bit Depth and Sample Rate): 24-bit/192kHz
Connectivity: USB-C
Preamp Quality: high-performance pre-amps, Air mode
Build Quality and Portability: compact
Software and Compatibility: Windows, Mac OS, iOS
Universal Audio Apollo Solo USB Heritage Edition
Universal Audio Apollo Solo USB Heritage Edition
Number of Inputs and Outputs: 2
Audio Quality (Bit Depth and Sample Rate): cutting-edge bit depth, sample rates
Connectivity: USB
Latency: minimal latency
Preamp Quality: Unison mic preamp technology
Build Quality and Portability: robust, portable design
Software and Compatibility: Avid Pro Tools, Ableton Live, Cubase
#10
Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen USB Audio Interface, for Multitrack Recording, Music Production and Podcasting — High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, and All the Software You Need to Record
Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen USB Audio Interface, for Multitrack Recording, Music Production and Podcasting — High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, and All the Software You Need to Record
Number of Inputs and Outputs: 18 inputs, 20 outputs
Audio Quality (Bit Depth and Sample Rate): 24-bit, 192kHz
Connectivity: USB-C, Hi-Z, ADAT, S/PDIF, MIDI
Preamp Quality: eight high-quality mic preamps
Build Quality and Portability: Aluminum body, 8.04 pounds
Software and Compatibility: Pro Tools Intro+, Ableton Live Lite
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Buying Guide for the Best Audio Interfaces
Choosing the right audio interface is crucial for anyone involved in music production, podcasting, or any form of audio recording. An audio interface is a device that connects your instruments, microphones, and other audio gear to your computer, converting analog signals into digital data that your computer can process. To find the best fit for your needs, you should consider several key specifications. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and ensure that your audio interface meets your specific requirements.Number of Inputs and OutputsThe 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 monitoring equipment. If you are a solo musician or podcaster, a 2-in/2-out interface might be sufficient. However, if you plan to record a band or multiple sources at once, you may need an interface with more inputs and outputs, such as 8-in/8-out or higher. Consider your current and future needs when deciding on the number of inputs and outputs.
Audio Quality (Bit Depth and Sample Rate)Audio quality is determined by the bit depth and sample rate of the audio interface. Bit depth affects the dynamic range of your recordings, with higher bit depths providing more detail and less noise. Common bit depths are 16-bit, 24-bit, and 32-bit. Sample rate refers to how many times per second the audio is sampled, with higher sample rates capturing more detail. Common sample rates are 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 96kHz, and 192kHz. For most home studios, a 24-bit/48kHz interface is sufficient, but if you require the highest quality recordings, consider an interface with higher bit depth and sample rate.
ConnectivityThe type of connectivity an audio interface offers determines how it connects to your computer. Common connection types include USB, Thunderbolt, and FireWire. USB interfaces are widely compatible and suitable for most users. Thunderbolt interfaces offer faster data transfer rates and lower latency, making them ideal for professional studios and users with high-performance needs. FireWire is less common but still used in some professional settings. Choose an interface with a connection type that is compatible with your computer and meets your performance requirements.
Phantom PowerPhantom 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, ensure that your audio interface has phantom power (usually +48V). This feature is essential for capturing high-quality vocal and instrument recordings. If you only use dynamic microphones, which do not require phantom power, this feature may not be as important.
LatencyLatency refers to the delay between the input signal (e.g., your voice or instrument) and the output signal (e.g., what you hear in your headphones). Low latency is crucial for real-time monitoring and recording, as high latency can be distracting and make it difficult to perform. Look for an audio interface with low-latency drivers and direct monitoring features to minimize delay. If you are a musician or podcaster who needs to monitor your recordings in real-time, prioritize interfaces with low latency.
Preamp QualityPreamps amplify the signal from your microphones and instruments before it is converted to digital data. The quality of the preamps in an audio interface can significantly impact the clarity and warmth of your recordings. High-quality preamps provide clean, transparent amplification with minimal noise. If you are recording vocals or acoustic instruments, prioritize interfaces with high-quality preamps. For basic recording needs, standard preamps may suffice, but for professional-quality recordings, invest in an interface with superior preamp quality.
Build Quality and PortabilityThe build quality and portability of an audio interface are important considerations, especially if you plan to use it in different locations or on the go. A robust, well-built interface will withstand the rigors of travel and frequent use. If you need a portable solution, look for a compact and lightweight interface that is easy to transport. For a stationary setup, build quality is still important, but portability may be less of a concern. Consider your usage scenario and choose an interface that matches your durability and portability needs.
Software and CompatibilityMany audio interfaces come with bundled software, such as digital audio workstations (DAWs), plugins, and virtual instruments. This software can add significant value and enhance your recording capabilities. Ensure that the interface is compatible with your preferred DAW and operating system (Windows, macOS, etc.). Check for driver support and updates from the manufacturer to ensure smooth operation. If you are new to recording, bundled software can provide a great starting point, while experienced users may prioritize compatibility with their existing setup.