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What Is an Audio Interface, Anyway?

An audio interface acts as the bridge between your audio and the digital world. In short, it lets you capture sound from a microphone or instrument into a computer or mobile device for safekeeping, editing, mixing, and sharing.

Audio interfaces often include built-in preamps, headphone jacks, and monitor controls. They come in various types to accommodate Thunderbolt, USB, FireWire, Ethernet, and PCI connections. Plus, interfaces are available at several price points, from budget-friendly units to advanced professional models. If you plan on making music or recording audio using a computer, chances are you’ll need an audio interface!

Are you shopping for your first audio interface? Wondering if an interface is even right for you? Find answers to these questions and more in Sweetwater's Audio interface Buying Guide.

Audio Interface Categories

If it’s been a while since your last studio overhaul, here’s a quick primer on the common categories of interfaces you'll find at Sweetwater:

USB Audio Interfaces

USB audio interfaces are the most common type of interface at Sweetwater. Whether you need an audio interface for Mac or PC, USB interfaces are stable and can transmit a large number of high-resolution audio channels using standard USB protocols (including USB 2.0 and 3.0 and USB Type-A and -C).

Many entry-level interfaces are equipped with USB connections, though numerous professional-level interfaces are outfitted with USB connections as well. They’re available in common desktop formats or rackmount units for pro production environments.

For more information on USB interfaces, see Best USB Audio Interfaces in 2025.

Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces

Do you use a compatible Mac and need the extra horsepower of an audio interface? You may want to reach for a Thunderbolt interface. Thunderbolt audio interfaces offer low-latency performance, so you can track while monitoring plug-in effects — a big plus when capturing MIDI instruments or electric guitars.

PC users may be able to use a Thunderbolt interface, provided their motherboards support it. See our Thunderbolt audio interface quickstart guide for more information.

FireWire Audio Interfaces

Are you still running a FireWire recording system? If so, you'll be pleased to know that several companies still make FireWire audio interfaces and outfit them with the latest preamps and converters. If you have an older computer or prefer the FireWire protocol, Sweetwater has an interface for you. Browse our selection of FireWire interfaces from top brands, including MOTU, Black Lion Audio, and more.

Ethernet Audio Interfaces

Professional studios have embraced Ethernet audio interfaces for complex recording setups. Ethernet interfaces boast low-latency performance, and they provide unprecedented scalability. Does your facility have multiple recording and mixing rooms or require dozens of inputs (to record string ensembles, for example)? Then an Ethernet audio interface may be the right choice!

PCI Audio Interfaces

PCI audio interfaces are another popular choice for professional studios, whether being used as an audio interface for Mac or PC. Unlike Thunderbolt, USB, and Ethernet units, PCI interfaces install directly into your computer via an available PCI slot, and they typically offer high-performance features. PCI audio interfaces do not include built-in preamps, so they’re often relegated to studios with recording consoles and/or external hardware preamps and processors.

MIDI Audio Interfaces

MIDI interfaces are not technically audio interfaces; however, they are essential for any studio that utilizes hardware synths, drum machines, or MIDI-equipped effects units and processors. MIDI interfaces streamline your MIDI rig, allowing you to connect and sync multiple devices within your DAW. Additionally, MIDI interfaces are integral to live playback rigs common among professional touring acts.

What to Consider When Choosing an Audio Interface

Connection Type and Latency

Do you plan to record with plug-in effects and processors? Do you deal with high track counts? If so, it’s critical to consider latency. Generally, the faster the connection between the interface and the computer, the better performance you can expect from your interface, regardless of whether it is an audio interface for PC or Mac.

Learn more about managing latency by watching How to Fix Latency Issues: Better Recordings & Less Hassle!

Analog and Digital Connections

Analog connections on audio interfaces come in a variety of formats, such as XLR, 1/4-inch, RCA, or even DB-25 connectors, which pack a lot of I/O in a small amount of space. Onboard microphone preamplifiers can greatly reduce the need for additional recording hardware. Take the ever-popular Focusrite Scarlett Audio Interface series. Several interfaces in this lineup include enough onboard preamps and conversion to track entire bands. However, if you find yourself needing additional inputs, digital protocols such as ADAT Lightpipe (also known as ADAT optical) allow you to increase your channel count with ease. Some interfaces may even include MIDI I/O for connecting keyboards and controllers.

Form Factor

Audio interfaces come in various shapes and sizes, but they’re generally intended for either desktop or rackmount use. Desktop interfaces tend to be smaller with fewer connections, but they conveniently put all hardware controls within arm's reach. Some desktop interfaces are bus-powered, which makes them ideal for mobile use. Rackmount interfaces are often permanently installed in 19-inch equipment racks, providing more I/O but sometimes at the expense of hands-on control.

Onboard DSP

Many audio interfaces today come with onboard digital signal processing and DSP-based mixers, providing built-in effects, dynamics, equalization, and monitor mixing. This power goes way beyond simply using an audio interface for guitar. You can put reverb or delay on vocals for monitoring, or sometimes to record with EQ and compression, all without adding latency to your system. Onboard DSP can be either fixed or expandable, depending on the system. Systems such as Universal Audio’s Apollo line of interfaces include DSP that can power their exclusive plug-ins without increasing your computer’s CPU usage.

Find Your Next Audio Interface at Sweetwater

Whether you’re buying your first audio interface or expanding your current setup, you’ll find the perfect interface for your needs at Sweetwater. Use our on-site shop filters to sort interface options by brand, series, price, connection type, number of inputs, max resolution, and more. If you need help, our knowledgeable Sales Engineers are standing by with expert advice customized to your specific needs. Call us at (800) 222-4700 for answers to questions about compatibility, expandability, and more.

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