Best recording audio interface

Name: RME MADIface USB 2.0 Audio Interface
Brand: RME

Steve Romanoski

Last Updated: Sep 26, 2022

Online shopping can be a daunting task to perform, especially if you've never had the product before. Luckily, there're ultimate reviews like this one that can help save you hours on the research. The www.playersbenchmusic.com specialists have carefully selected the top 31 recording audio interface out there. Below you'll find our detailed reviews of the top-rated options from String Swing.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

#TOP 1

RME MADIface USB 2.0 Audio Interface

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RME MADIface USB 2.0 Audio Interface

#TOP 1

#TOP 2

Apollo x4 Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface (Renewed)

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Apollo x4 Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface (Renewed)

#TOP 2

#TOP 3

Universal Audio Apollo x8p Heritage Edition

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Universal Audio Apollo x8p Heritage Edition

#TOP 3

Top 31 Best recording audio interface Reviews 2022

#TOP 1

RME MADIface USB 2.0 Audio Interface

RME

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Features

Comes with DIGICheck, a complete audio measurement, analysis and test tool
TotalMix FX mixing software gives you unlimited routing of inputs and outputs, and up 32 fully independent stereo submixes
Supports 64-in/64-out at 24-bit/48kHz, 32 channels at 24-bit/96kHz, and 16 channels at 24-bit/192kHz
Can operate standalone as a MADI optical/coax format converter or as a signal repeater
Allows you to record and play back MADI digital audio on your Mac or PC

#TOP 2

Apollo x4 Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface (Renewed)

Amazon Renewed

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UAD-2 QUAD Core processing for tracking through vintage compressors, EQs, tape machines, mic preamps, and guitar amp plug-ins with near-zero latency
Includes FREE download of LUNA Recording System, which transforms all Thunderbolt equipped Apollo and Arrow interfaces into a full-featured music creation, recording, and analog-style production system for Mac
2 Unison-enabled front panel Hi-Z instrument inputs, and 2 independent front panel headphone outputs
Runs UAD Powered Plug-Ins via VST, RTAS, AU, and AAX 64 in all major DAWs
Built-in Talkback mic and dedicated monitor functionality including monitor remote functions and Mono, Mute, DIM, and ALT monitor controls
Desktop 12 x 18 Thunderbolt 3 audio interface for Mac and Windows, Elite-class A/D and D/A conversion derived from the Apollo X rackmount interfaces
Up to 8 channels of additional digital input and output via optical ADAT and S/PDIF
4 Unison mic preamps offer stunning models of classic tube and transformer-based mic preamps and guitar amps
Includes the "Real time Analog Classics Plus" UAD plug-in bundle featuring the Teletronix LA-2A and 1176 compressors, Pultec EQs, UA 610-B Tube Preamp & EQ, and more
1 Year Manufacturer's Warranty if purchased from an Authorized UA Retailer

#TOP 3

Universal Audio Apollo x8p Heritage Edition

Universal Audio

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Easily connect to consoles and studio gear with switchable +24 / +20 dBu headroom settings
Work in surround formats up to 7.1, complete with speaker calibration and fold-down
Produce with LUNA Recording System — a fully-integrated recording application made for Apollo (Mac only)
Record with near-zero latency through preamp emulations from Neve, API, SSL, Helios, Manley, Avalon, and more using Unison technology
Produce with a special edition of UA's elite-class Apollo x8p interface, including a premium suite of award-winning UAD plug-ins worth over $2,400
Track and mix with powerful HEXA Core processing, featuring 6 UAD DSP chips for running more award-winning UAD Powered Plug-Ins in real time
Record with elite-class A/D and D/A conversion nearing the widest dynamic range and lowest signal to noise available — at any price
Use integrated Talkback mic and built-in cues for easy communication and slating takes
Run UAD Powered Plug-Ins via VST, AU, and AAX 64 in all major DAWs

#TOP 4

Avid Pro Tools | Carbon Hybrid Audio Interface

Avid

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#TOP 5

Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface

Focusrite

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Enjoy three years of warranty - Wherever you happen to be in the world, you can rely on a three-year warranty if any Focusrite hardware needs repairing or replacing due to a manufacturing fault.
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Easy start tool to get up and running easier than ever
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Four of the best performing mic preamps the Scarlett range has ever seen, now with switchable Air mode to give your recordings a brighter and more open sound. Two high-headroom instrument inputs to plug in your guitar or bass. Eight balanced line inputs for connecting synthesizers, drum machine and other line-level sources. Four monitor outputs with anti-thump technology and speaker switching.
Includes free software from Antares, Relab, Softube, XLN Audio, Brainworx, Splice, Focusrite, Ableton, and Avid, all available via download upon purchase and registration
High-performance converters enable you to record and mix at up to 24-bit/ 192kHz.
LIMITED TIME OFFER: Get Fuse Audio Labs’ FX plug-in Bucket-500 and VPRE-2C for FREE upon registration and download
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#TOP 6

UA Volt 2 USB Audio Interface

Universal Audio

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Harness USB bus power for on-the-go recording with class-leading 24-bit/192 kHz audio conversion
Easily create music productions, livestreams, and podcasts on Mac, PC, iPad, and iPhone
30-day Free Trial Subscription to UAD Spark, an ever expanding library of world-class plug-ins and instruments that run on Mac, no hardware required
Record vocals and instruments with rich, full sound using Vintage Mic Preamp mode
Studio-quality headphone amp, MIDI connections, 48V phantom power, and Direct Monitoring for latency-free recording
Produce with industry-leading software including Ableton, Melodyne, UJAM's Virtual Drummer, Marshall, Ampeg, and more

#TOP 7

Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface

Focusrite

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Pro performance with the finest pre-amps - Achieve a brighter and a more open recording thanks to the best performing mic pre-amps the Scarlett range has ever seen. A switchable Air mode will add extra clarity to your vocals when recording with your Scarlett Solo.
Get the perfect guitar take - There’s no need to sacrifice your tone with the high headroom instrument input when recording your guitar and basses. Capture your instruments in all their glory without any unwanted clipping or distortion thanks to our Gain Halos.
Low-noise for crystal clear listening - Two low-noise balanced outputs provide clean audio playback. Hear all the details and nuances of your own track or music from Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon Music. Plug-in your own headphones via the output for private listening in high-fidelity.
Enjoy three years of warranty - Wherever you happen to be in the world, you can rely on a three-year warranty if any Focusrite hardware needs repairing or replacing due to a manufacturing fault.
All the tools you need to start recording right, now - We’ve partnered with our favourite industry partners to provide you with plenty of sound content and software so that you can create and record music right away. Create studio quality vocals, powerful guitars, luscious keys and huge drums.
Studio quality recordings for your music and podcasts - You can achieve professional sounding recordings with Scarlett’s high-performance converters which enable you to record and mix at up to 24-bit/192kHz. Your recordings will retain all of their sonic qualities so that you can sound like the artists you admire.
Easy Start - It’s easier than ever to get up and running with your Scarlett with our online tool, Easy Start. Whether you’re looking to record or playback audio, we will help you get started.

#TOP 8

PreSonus Studio 24c 2x2

PreSonus

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Features

Studio-grade converters allow for up to 24-bit/96 kHz recording and playback.
Loaded with 2 pristine XMAX-L solid-state mic preamps to capture every detail.
Equipped with high-powered headphone output.
Onboard MIDI I/O provides a standard 5-pin DIN connection to keyboards and other MIDI gear.
Stay on top of your recording levels with ladder-style LED monitoring and low-latency direct monitoring.
Comes with Studio Magic Plug-In Suite - over 1,000 USD worth of computer recording software plug-ins.
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).
+48V phantom power (global) for condenser microphones.
Contains 2 high-headroom instrument/line inputs to record guitar, bass, and your favorite line-level devices.
Studio One Artist and Ableton Live Lite DAW Recording Software included.

#TOP 9

Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 8-in 6-out USB Audio Interface + Q6 Dynamic Handheld Microphone

Focusrite

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Features

Two of the best performing Scarlett mic preamps the range has ever heard – now with Air – for recording vocals. Phantom power, pads, MIDI & S/PDIF I/O.
Deluxe Photo Savings Bundle Includes Q6 Dynamic Handheld Microphone, Extra Bass Smartphone Headphones, and a vast variety of cables to have you covered in every situation!
Portable and lightweight yet rugged and reliable. Includes an extensive software bundle: Softube Time and Tone Bundle / Focusrite Red Plug-in Suite / Focusrite Plug-in Collective / XLN Audio Addictive Keys / Three Month Splice Sounds Subscription / Ableton Live Lite / Focusrite Creative Pack / Avid Pro Tools | First.
Loopback, for grabbing a stereo feed of any combination of hardware inputs and software playback, no cables needed, for simple sampling, streaming or podcasting. Mac & Windows Compatible.
Like you, the 8i6 focuses on all the in's and out's of professional recording. It features six balanced line inputs & two high headroom instrument inputs. Four balanced outputs and two headphone output jacks.

#TOP 10

M-Audio AIR 192|14 - USB Audio Interface

M-Audio

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Low Latency - Hi-Speed USB / USB-C circuitry gives you the fastest connection, with a class-leading round trip latency of only 2.59ms; USB and USB-C connection cables included
Unite Your MIDI Gear - 5-pin MIDI In / Out connections for connecting synths, sequencers and other external MIDI gear
Feature Packed - Rugged metal chassis, large central volume control, VU LED meters and USB/Direct knob for zero latency monitoring
Pristine Studio Grade Capture - Transparent Crystal preamps and ultra-pristine A/D converters for unsurpassed audio recording quality
Capture Every Detail - Premium component selection and 24-bit/192kHz resolution for professional recording and monitoring to your Mac / PC;
Connectivity - 4 XLR+¼" TRS combo inputs, 2 ¼” instrument inputs and 2 ¼” line inputs; Stereo ¼” outputs with direct mono/stereo switch; 2 ¼” assignable auxiliary outs; 2 ¼” headphone outputs
Pro Software - MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Touch Loops, plus the Creative FX Collection, Xpand!2, Mini Grand, DB33, Strike, Hybrid3, and Revalver

#TOP 11

Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4-in 4-out USB Audio Interface (3rd Generation) + Xpix SR360 Over-Ear Dynamic Headphones

Focusrite

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Features

Loopback, for grabbing a stereo feed of any combination of hardware inputs and software playback, no cables needed, for simple sampling, streaming or podcasting
Photo Savings bundle contains Samson SR360 Over-Ear Dynamic Headphones and all the cables you'll need. Scarlett 4i4 interface includes a complimentary software bundle (see description). Mac & Windows Compatible
Four balanced line inputs, for connecting synths or other line-level audio, and four balanced outputs, for monitoring and effects sends. Independent headphone output.
Two high headroom instrument inputs, for plugging your guitar or bass straight in. Switchable 48V phantom power & MIDI I/O.
Two of the best performing Scarlett mic preamps the range has ever heard – now with Air Mode– for miking up guitars or recording vocals

#TOP 12

Behringer U-PHORIA UM2 Audiophile 2x2 USB Audio Interface

Behringer

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Audiophile 48 kHz resolution for professional audio quality. Maximum sampling rate: 48 kHz
Compatible with popular recording software, including Avid pro tools, Ableton live, Steinberg Cubase, etc.
State-of-the-art, +48 V-powered Xenyx Mic Preamp comparable to stand-alone boutique preamps
2x2 USB audio interface for recording microphones and instruments
Streams 2 inputs / 2 outputs with ultra-low latency to your computer, supporting Mac OS X and Windows XP or higher

#TOP 13

Audient iD44 MKII USB Audio Interface

Audient

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2 x Digital Inputs + Outputs
Class Leading Converters
4 x Audient Console Mic Preamps
2 x JFET Instrument Inputs
Independent Headphone + Stereo Outputs
Fully Balanced Inserts

#TOP 14

Apogee Symphony Desktop

Apogee

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2 VINTAGE MIC EMULATIONS: Choose between a Neve 1066 or Ampex 601 mic preamp that combines analog circuitry and DSP processing to create the richest and most authentic preamp modeling.
INCLUDES 6 HARDWARE DSP PLUGINS: Symphony ECS Channel Strip, Pultec EQP-1A & Pultec MEQ-5, Opto-3A, ModEQ 6, and ModComp.
INTUITIVE TOUCH SCREEN: Hands-on processing with Symphony’s touch screen that allows you to dial in your perfect setting.
POWERFUL MIC PREAMPS: Symphony Desktop’s preamps provide up to 75dB of clean gain.
INCLUDES 2 NATIVE PLUGINS: Symphony ECS Channel Strip & Clearmountain’s Spaces.
NO NEED TO SWITCH WINDOWS: With DualPath Monitoring you can control everything when it comes to recording right from your DAW. There's no need to bounce between multiple windows to ensure your sound and settings are the same.
RECORD WITHOUT DELAY: Symphony Desktop and its Control 2 Software allow you the flexibility to either Print FX or Monitor FX with zero latency.
WHAT’S IN THE BOX: Symphony Desktop, Power Supply, USB Type A & USB Type C Cable, and USB Flash Drive
FLAGSHIP SOUND QUALITY: Get the sound of Symphony Mk ii right on your desk with our legendary A/D and D/A conversion that delivers ultra-low distortion and provides a transparent window into the sonic landscape of your mix and recordings.

#TOP 15

RME Audio Interface (BABYFACEPRO)

RME

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Features

High-end yet portable interface incorporates newly designed analog and digital circuits
Includes: 4 x Analog I/O, 2 x Phones Output, 1 x ADAT I/O, 1 x MIDI I/O, USB 2. 0, TotalMix FX, Class Compliant Mode, 2 x Line/Instrument Input
Energy saving technologies provide supreme fidelity with no compromises in level, noise or distortion.
Created with the highest precision from a block of aluminum

#TOP 16

AXE I/O premium 2-in 5-out 24-bit

IK Multimedia

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Features

Z-TONE CONTROL: This unique impedance adapting circuit lets you dial in sharper or bolder tones from a single guitar or bass.
THE ULTIMATE AUDIO INTERFACE FOR GUITAR RECORDING: The perfect combination of performance and capability, this 2-in / 5-out USB audio interface offers exclusive guitar recording features
AMPLIFER OUT: A ground-isolated amp out for easy reamping eliminates the need for a DI box or reamp box. Try different gear settings without recording countless takes
ACTIVE/PASSIVE PICK-UP SELECTOR: Match pickup types with your guitar or bass to ensure the best possible tone when recording, with active pickups or passive pick-ups
PRISTINE SOUND: A high-resolution, class A mic preamp, 24-bit, 192 kHz sound quality and wide frequency response delivers stunning sound quality

#TOP 17

M-Audio M-Track Solo – USB Audio Interface

M-Audio

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Everything you Demand from an Audio Interface for Fuss-Free Monitoring – 1/8” headphone output and stereo RCA outputs for total monitoring flexibility; USB/Direct switch for zero latency monitoring
Get the best out of your Microphones - M-Track Solo’s transparent Crystal Preamp guarantees optimal sound from all your microphones including condenser mics
Podcast, Record, Live Stream, This Portable Audio Interface Covers it All – USB sound card for Mac or PC delivers 24-bit/48 kHz audio resolution for pristine recording every time
Be ready for anything with this versatile M-Audio interface - Record guitar, vocals or line input signals with one combo XLR / Line Input with phantom power and one Line / Instrument input
Whether you’re a Podcaster or Beat Maker, this software suite won’t disappoint - Includes: Pro Tools, First M-Audio Edition, MPC Beats, Xpand 2, Eleven Lite guitar amp plugin and 20 AVID plugin FX

#TOP 18

Zoom R8 Multi-Track Tabletop Recorder

Zoom

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Allows simultaneous recording on up to 8 tracks
16/24-bit/44. 1kHz Linear PCM recording in WAV format
Digital recorder with 16-track playback and 8-track simultaneous recording utilizing secure Digital (SD) memory
Built-in stereo condenser microphones
Supports cards up to 32GB SDHC

#TOP 19

Alesis MultiMix 4 USB FX

Alesis

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Portable, Feature-Packed Mixing Desk - 4-channel mixer with 1/4" line level inputs, a high impedance input / switch for electric guitar and bass (DI), plus XLR inputs with 48V phantom power
Home Studio Recording Essentials - XLR inputs with gain trim and switchable high-pass filters; Dual-band EQ on channels 1-4; Multicolor LED metering for real-time, visual level feedback
Perfect Capture - Class compliant (Mac & PC) USB audio interface records at 16-bit, 44.1/48 kHz resolution and sends computer audio to powered loudspeakers and headphones
Connects to all Your Studio Equipment - Stereo (2) 1/4" outputs connect to active monitors, amplifiers and recording devices; headphone output with independent level control
Built in Studio Effects - 15 DSP effects with channel FX Sends and Master FX return level to adjust the volume of MultiMix 4 USB FX’s internal FX processor
Professional Software Suite - Includes AKAI Professional MPC Beats

#TOP 20

Universal Audio Apollo x4 Heritage Edition

Universal Audio

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Also includes “Realtime Analog Classics Plus” UAD plug-in bundle featuring UA 610-B Tube Preamp, Legacy Pultec EQ, additional LA-2A and 1176 compressors, Marshall Plexi Classic, Ampeg SVT-VR Classic, and more
Dual front-panel Unison-enabled Hi-Z instrument inputs and headphone outs
A special edition of UA's acclaimed Apollo x4 interface — with a premium suite of 10 award-winning plug-in titles from Helios, Fairchild, Teletronix, Pultec, UA, and more — a $2,400 value
Produce with LUNA Recording System — a fully-integrated recording application made for Apollo (Mac only)
UAD QUAD Core Processing for tracking through vintage compressors, EQs, tape machines, mic preamps, and guitar amp plug-ins with near-zero latency
Runs UAD Powered Plug-Ins via VST, AU, and AAX 64 in all major DAWs, including Logic Pro, Pro Tools, Cubase, Ableton Live, and more
Built-in Talkback mic and dedicated monitor functionality including monitor remote functions and Mono, Mute, DIM, and ALT monitor controls
4 Unison mic preamps offer stunning models of classic tube and transformer-based mic preamps and guitar amps
Elite-class A/D and D/A conversion derived from Apollo X rackmount interfaces paired with 4 Unison mic preamps deliver stunning models of classic tube and transformer-based mic preamps and guitar amps
Up to 8 channels of additional digital input via optical ADAT/SPDIF

#TOP 21

Antelope Audio Zen Go Synergy Core 4x8 Bus-Powered USB-C Audio Interface

Antelope Audio

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Bus-powered audio interface with USB-C connection for Mac/Windows
37 Synergy Core analog-modeled effects included and over 50 available as optional expansions. Processed in real-time with imperceptible latency
User-friendly software control of all available features including onboard effects processing, direct monitoring, signal routing and volume settings
Two Discrete ultra-linear preamps with 65 dB gain and switchable mic, line and Hi-Z modes, offering console-grade performance & low noise when recording
Class-leading AD/DA conversion for the most detailed sound when recording and streaming audio, aided by 64-bit AFC clocking technology delivering increased sound width & separation

#TOP 22

Universal Audio Apollo Solo Heritage Edition

Universal Audio

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Bus-powered connection to Mac and Windows systems for easy portability and reduced cable clutter
Produce with LUNA Recording System — a free, fully-integrated recording application made for Apollo (Mac only)
Free, industry-leading technical support — on the phone and online — from knowledgeable audio engineers
A special edition of UA's popular Apollo Solo interface — with a premium suite of 5 award-winning plug-in titles from Teletronix, Pultec, and UA — a $1,300 value
Uncompromising analog design, superior components, and premium build quality
UAD SOLO Core Processing for tracking through vintage compressors, EQs, tape machines, mic preamps, and guitar amp plug-ins with near-zero latency
Unison mic preamp and guitar amp emulations from Neve, API, Avalon, Manley, Marshall, Fender, and more
Compatible with Logic Pro, Pro Tools, Cubase, Ableton Live, and more
Runs UAD Powered Plug-Ins via VST, AU, and AAX 64 formats in all major DAWs
Best-in-class headphone amplifier for loud, detailed, low-noise monitoring

#TOP 23

Apogee Duet 3 - 2 Channel USB Audio Interface

Apogee

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WORLD-CLASS PREAMPS: With up to 65dB of gain and 48V phantom power, you can cleanly and precisely capture any audio source with even the most demanding microphones.
COMPLETELY BUS POWERED: Never worry about bringing a power cable since Duet 3 is powered by a USB connection without any sacrifice in quality.
WHAT’S IN THE BOX: Apogee Duet 3 with Breakout Cable, Travel Case, and USB Type C / Type A Cable.
TAKE IT ON THE ROAD: Ultra-compact design with scratch-resistant cover glass make this the best portable audio interface on the market. Plus you get a handy travel case included to protect your gear for years to come.
HARDWARE DSP MEANS LESS WORK FOR YOU: Capture your best performance and dial in your perfect sound with the Symphony ECS Channel Strip which is powered directly from the onboard hardware DSP. Latency while recording is practically zero.
ONE INTERFACE FOR ALL PLATFORMS: Duet 3 is compatible with macOS, Windows 10, and even iOS devices like an iPhone or iPad.
THE BEST AUDIO INTERFACE FOR ALL YOUR NEEDS: Whether you’re recording vocals, playing instruments, live streaming, or podcasting, the Duet 3 delivers with its legendary sound quality and ease of use.

#TOP 24

Audient Sono Guitar Recording Audio Interface

Audient

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Headphone Output
Cabinet Emulation
Re-amp Output
Tube Guitar Preamp
10-in/4-out USB 2 Audio Interface with 2 Mic Preamps

#TOP 25

Arturia AudioFuse Rev2 USB Audio Interface

ARTURIA

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with 2 Mic/Line/Instrument Preamps
MIDI I/O; 24-bit AD/DA Converters at Up to 192kHz Sampling Rate
14-in/14-out
2 Phono Preamps; ADAT
USB Audio Interface

#TOP 26

Antelope Audio Zen Q Synergy Core 14x10 Bus-Powered Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface

Antelope Audio

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Reviews for Antelope Audio PBM Score

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Features

2 Discrete ultra-linear preamps designed with authentic console circuitry for classic warmth and sonic depth, with switchable mic / Line IN / Hi-Z modes; 2 additional analog inputs, with switchable Hi-Z/Line modes
Real-time, low latency processing of 37 included analog-modeled Synergy Core effects with 50+ optional expansions
Thunderbolt 3 interface with advanced audio driver for optimized streaming, playback, and low-latency recording (Thunderbolt cable not included)
Professional sound and stability via highly efficient AD/DA converter chips and proprietary 64-bit AFC (Acoustically Focused Clocking)
Flexible I/O connectivity, with 8 additional inputs over ADAT, and stereo I/O over S/PDIF

#TOP 27

Apollo Twin MkII w/ Duo Processing

Amazon Renewed

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Features

Realtime UAD Processing for tracking through vintage compressors, EQs, tape machines, mic preamps, and guitar amp plug-ins with near-zero (sub-2ms) latency*2 premium mic/line preamps; 2 line outputs; front-panel Hi-Z instrument input and headphone output2 digitally controlled analog monitor outputs for full resolution at all listening levelsUp to 8 channels of additional digital input via Optical connectionUncompromising analog design, superior components, and premium build qualityIncludes Realt

#TOP 28

Antelope Audio Discrete 4 Synergy Core Thunderbolt and USB Audio Interface

Antelope Audio

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Reviews for Antelope Audio PBM Score

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Features

Onboard processing - Apply the plugins while mixing or tracking live with near zero latency. Work on a session with up to 32 plugins loaded simultaneously without CPU load and no need for external DSP accelerators - made possible by the Synergy Core onboard platform for real-time plugin processing
Exceptional sound in a mobile package - The 4 discrete 6-transistor preamps offer ultra-low noise and vanishingly low distortion. The AD/DA converters ensure lush, bold, and expansive recordings of your instruments and vocals, while articulate audio reproduction is ensured by a monitor converter with pristine conversion. Further enhancing the sound-quality is Antelope's Acoustically Focused Clocking technology employed in the company's renowned master clocks
Other connections - four DC-coupled line outputs on TRS 1/4 jack, S/PDIF & ADAT, two word clock outs, four stereo headphone outs and a stereo monitor out; Route all your audio through a flexible software matrix
Desktop 4x10 Thunderbolt 2 & USB 2.0 audio interface for Mac/Windows with 4 discrete preamps and 36 real-time plugins included (Thunderbolt cable not included)
37 real-time analog-modeled plugins included - The plugin library consists of emulations of most coveted and hard-to-find studio analog gear from around the world. The collection spans from a rare Austrian-born EQ to legendary British solid-state processing. A growing library of expansions is available to you in the Antelope software store

#TOP 29

Universal Audio Apollo Twin USB Heritage Edition

Universal Audio

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Reviews for Universal Audio PBM Score

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Features

World-class Apollo A/D and D/A conversion and USB 3 connection for modern Windows systems
Also includes “Realtime Analog Classics” UAD plug-in bundle featuring UA 610-B Tube Preamp Legacy Pultec EQ, LA-2A and 1176 compressors, Marshall Plexi Classic, Ampeg SVT-VR Classic, and more
Unison technology provides stunning models of classic mic preamps and guitar amps
2 premium mic/line preamps, 2 line outputs, front-panel Hi-Z instrument input and stereo headphone output
2 analog monitor outputs for full resolution at all listening levels
Up to 8 channels of additional digital input via optical ADAT/SPDIF input
USB 3 connection for modern Windows systems
A special edition of UA's esteemed Apollo Twin USB interface — with a premium suite of 5 award-winning plug-in titles from Teletronix, Pultec, and UA — a $1,300 value
UAD DUO Core Processing for tracking through vintage compressors, EQs, tape machines, mic preamps, and guitar amp plug-ins with near-zero latency
Runs UAD Powered Plug-Ins via VST, AU, and AAX 64 formats in major DAWs, including Pro Tools, Cubase, Ableton Live, and more

#TOP 30

MeloAudio Tone Shifter Mega MIDI Foot Controller and USB Guitar Recording Audio Interface

MeloAudio

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Reviews for MeloAudio PBM Score

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Features

Made for iOS,Mac,Windows,Andriod: with the Tone Shifter Mega auido interface, guitar player can transform their iPhone/iPad, computer into a powerful guitar amp and effects rig, and control their favorite guitar APP or software on stage and in the studio with the foot switches.
Make sure this fits by entering your model number.
Durable and functional: TS Mega will send out MIDI CC signal to control the software effect while guitar player stomping the foot switches.TS Mega can also work as USB MIDI controller or Stand alone MIDI controller. TS Mega has some default Host Configuration for popular software or racks such as Bias,JamUp,KPA,AXE.The users can also custom assign the foot switch in the learning mode. Two expression pedal jacks to control wah,volume or other effects at the same time.
Professional quality：armed with 192kHz/24-bit audio quality and innovative connectivity,the Tone Shifter Mega aimas to be a flexible solution for guitar players to record or play live with the incredible software or APP such as Bias,JamUp,Garageband and so on.TS Mega adopts a high-performance audio codec that can realize 192kHz/24-bit sampling. The dynamic range can reach 112 dB AND THE THD+N can be as low as-100dB.
Be powered by all: No batteries or external power required for any of the above features. To charge your iPhone,iPad,or iPod touch(or reduce power consumption for compatible Android devices)while you play, add a standard mobile phone adapter for power supply. More fun:TS Mega has fully balanced L and R output and XLR output.Besides TS Mega has intergrated 200mW earphone amplifier fro earphone output. Guitar player can easy monitor by avoiding annoying your neighbor or family.
A variety of Inputs: TS Mega has L Input for guitar/bass,R Input for dynamic microphone and one XLR Input for condenser microphone. The L Input has intergrated an analog guitar boost module,the moudule help to improve the tone of guitar. The R input is designed for dynamic microphone.The XLR Input is perfect for condenser microphone. It can provide 12V low noise phantom power for the condenser microphone.

#TOP 31

Antelope Audio Zen Tour Synergy Core 18 x 26 Desktop Thunderbolt 3 and USB Audio Interface

Antelope Audio

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Reviews for Antelope Audio PBM Score

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Customer Reviews

Features

36 real-time analog-modeled plugins included - The plugin library consists of emulations of most coveted and hard-to-find studio analog gear from around the world. The collection spans from a rare Austrian-born EQ to legendary British solid-state processing. A growing library of expansions is available to you in the Antelope software store
Craft album-ready recordings on your desktop - The studio-quality recording path is provided by 4 low-noise high-gain discrete ultra-linear preamps, high-spec AD/DA converters with up to 130 dB for artefact-free recording and signature clocking technology for increased width, separation, and detail in your performances
Onboard processing - Apply the plugins while mixing or tracking live with near zero latency. Work on a session with up to 256 plugins loaded simultaneously without CPU load and no need for external DSP accelerators. This is made possible by the Synergy Core onboard platform for real-time plugin processing
Other connections - four instrument line ins, eight DC-coupled line outs on DB25, two reamp outs, S/PDIF & ADAT, two stereo headphone outs and a stereo monitor out; Route all your audio through a flexible software matrix
Desktop 8x14 Thunderbolt 3 & USB 2.0 audio interface for Mac/Windows with 4 discrete preamps, 4 Hi-Z/line inputs and 36 real-time plugins included (Thunderbolt cable not included)

The Buyer's Guide to the Top recording audio interface - What to Keep in Mind

Do I need MIDI on audio interface?

A MIDI keyboard does not need an audio interface to connect to a computer. It needs either a separate MIDI interface, or some keyboards can connect via USB. Some audio interfaces do include MIDI, and these dual-purpose interfaces can be used to connect a MIDI keyboard to a computer.

Is it worth buying an audio interface?

You'll also need an audio interface if you want to connect your computer to your studio monitor speakers. Also if you're looking for better sound quality when producing music, an audio interface is usually a must. Essentially an audio interface is a sound card on steroids, made for producers, DJs, and musicians.

Is a mixer an audio interface?

An audio interface converts analog audio signals to digital audio signals, or digital signals to analog signals, which allows you to record and playback audio to and from your computer. An audio mixer is a device with inputs and outputs, used for processing and routing audio signals.

Do I really need a audio interface?

Answer: Yes, you need an audio interface, even when you make beats or electronic music. The main reason is because of the audio quality which is needed for professional music production. This quality is lacking in most sound cards shipped in laptop and desktop computers.

Do I need audio interface if not recording?

Q: Do I Need an Audio Interface if I Only Plan to Make Beats or Electronic Music and Don't Need to Record Anything? Answer: Yes, you need an audio interface, even when you make beats or electronic music. The main reason is because of the audio quality which is needed for professional music production.

Does an audio interface really make a difference?

Audio interfaces do make a difference in the resulting audio. The quality of the converters is paramount for the final sound to be closer to the original analog waveform. There are many tricks you can pull off to make it sound decent, but there are no shortcuts you can take to bypass low-quality converters.

Editor's Notes

A considerable amount of time and effort was put into this research. We spent a lot of time (over 33 hours to be exact) to deep dive into the topic, analyzing at least 1581 consumer reviews. At last, we came up with a list of the most top-rated models with an average rating of 274. The products you'll find in this selection are available at $9892 on average (as of 03-10-2023).

Written by

Steve Romanoski

Steve loves music. Steve Romanoski and his wife live in Alaska. They are always on the go, exploring new places and trying out new products (especially those which can help them enjoy the great musics even more). When he's not writing about products, Steve Romanoski enjoys reading books about history and science. He likes to think of himself as a renaissance man, but his wife would probably say that he's just a big kid at heart.