The small audio interface is something many new, and even some seasoned, recording artists take for granted. Back in the day, the “small audio interface” options were clunky 4-track recorders (which were admittedly kind of awesome), digital portable recording devices with inscrutable menu navigation, or, if those weren’t available, the old two-boom-box method. You know, the one where you record a track with the first boom box, play that back and perform over it while recording into the second boom box, and go back and forth until Pet Sounds comes out… or doesn’t. But, unless self-imposed, those restrictions are long gone. Now, for the price of two buckets of fried chicken with sides and biscuits, you can get an awesome starter audio interface such as the Behringer U-Phoria UM2. And, for less than $300, you can buy an audio interface capable of producing sound on par with some professional studios. These are truly amazing times in which we live!
So, let’s check out some of the best audio interfaces available under $300.
- Audient EVO 4 USB Audio Interface
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface
- PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 USB Audio Interface
- Apogee One USB Audio Interface
- M-Audio AIR 192|4 USB Audio Interface
- Solid State Logic SSL2+ USB Audio Interface
- MOTU M2 2×2 USB-C Audio Interface
- Behringer U-Phoria UM2 USB Audio Interface
- IK Multimedia iRig Pro Duo
- iZotope Spire Studio Portable Wireless Recorder
Audient EVO 4
With its sleek, eye-catching design, ample functionality, and exemplary sound, the Audient EVO 4 USB audio interface is an excellent desktop unit for home studios and on-the-go recordings. Loaded with two ultra-transparent preamps and a slightly colorful JFET instrument input, the EVO 4 captures superb sound on the front end with top-notch converters and a 133dB dynamic range, so you capture every nuance of a performance. An innovative Smartgain feature automatically sets an accurate recording level, so you can focus more on creating and less on setup. And the EVO 4’s chunky control knob feels great and allows precise adjustment to your monitor mix and output levels.
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen
The best-selling audio interface in the world, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 has an unimpeachable reputation for build quality, usability, and sonic performance. With the 3rd Gen model, Focusrite took an already stellar interface to the next level. It includes upgraded preamps, sample rates up to 192kHz, and re-engineered instrument inputs that work great with high-output active pickups. Focusrite equipped the Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen with its renowned Air mode, which adds a flattering sheen to vocals, percussion, acoustic instruments, and more. Self-recordists will appreciate the Scarlett 2i2’s halo indicator lights that give you at-a-glance monitoring of input levels. Green means you’re receiving signal. Red, you’ve gone too far. Yellow, and you’re at the top edge of the sweet spot. The Scarlett 2i2 includes a generous software bundle, featuring Ableton Lite, Pro Tools First Focusrite, and a bevy of soft synths, processors, and samples from XLN Audio, Softube, and Splice Sounds.
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96
PreSonus is one of the companies leading the charge to open up access to professional-quality recording equipment to artists at all levels. The affordable PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 demonstrates their commitment to that cause, offering two studio-quality PreSonus preamps and pristine 24-bit/96kHz digital audio resolution. The AudioBox USB 96 features main monitor and headphone outputs with independent level controls and an input/playback mixer for latency-free monitoring. For artists working with hardware synthesizers and keyboards, the AudioBox USB 96 comes equipped with traditional 5-pin DIN MIDI I/O. Additionally, the AudioBox USB 96 comes with the PreSonus Studio One Artist recording software and a knock-out plug-in package, showcasing processors and virtual instruments from Brainworx Audio, Maag Audio, Lexicon, Arturia, and more. Want even more functionality? Easily upgrade to PreSonus Studio One 4.6 to take advantage of PreSonus’s expansive flagship DAW.
Apogee One
Apogee is known for having some of the best AD/DA converters in the industry, making their interfaces a top choice for pro-level studio engineers. The Apogee One boasts that same superb sound quality in a stripped-down 2-channel audio interface. With the supplied breakout cable, the Apogee One gives you one XLR input and one instrument input — ideal for singer/songwriters that play guitar or bass. When the creative spark hits and you want to lay down an idea fast, you can record through the Apogee One’s built-in omnidirectional microphone — a feature that makes the Apogee One a great choice for podcasters and content creators. And it all comes packaged in a rugged die-cast aluminum body, perfect for chucking in a backpack or laptop bag so that you’re ready to record whenever and wherever.
M-Audio AIR 192|4
The M-Audio AIR 192|4 USB audio interface is a solidly built desktop unit with a satisfying, large central volume knob and an ergonomically comfortable forward tilt you’ll love during recording and mixdown. This ultra-fast USB-C interface promises round-trip latency as low as 2.59ms — a top performer in its class. The AIR 192|4’s single low-noise Crystal mic/line preamp yields clean and uncolored sound, an advantage when you’re processing tracks in the box but want a lot of flexibility while recording. And, like others on the list, it’s an excellent companion for singer/songwriters, with a front-panel Hi-Z instrument input. To get you started recording right away, the AIR 192|4 provides a bevy of bundled software, including Pro Tools First, Ableton Live Lite, Avid Eleven Lite FX Suite for bass and guitar, and an assortment of over 20 software processors and creative effects from Avid and AIR.
Solid State Logic SSL2+
Solid State Logic is revered for their peerless large-format recording consoles, through which countless hit records have flowed. With the Solid State Logic SSL2+ USB audio interface, they gather up some of that big studio magic and transport it into your home studio. The SSL2+ is steeped in SSL quality, featuring two premium preamps with Neutrik connectors, AKM 24-bit/192kHz converters, and a durable aluminum chassis populated with Alps pots. And you get four line outputs and two headphone outputs. Where the SSL2+ really flexes its muscles is the inclusion of a 4K Legacy mode button on each preamp, which injects instant analog warmth and harmonic saturation into the signal chain. To top it off, Solid State Logic throws in a selection of third-party software from Avid, Ableton, and Native Instruments and two of their uber-powerful SSL Native channel strips: Vocalstrip 2 and Drumstrip.
MOTU M2
The MOTU M2 USB-C audio interface is a popular favorite at Sweetwater for its ease of use, spectacular sonics, and welcoming price point. The M2 relies on ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology to deliver outstanding sound with a massive 120dB dynamic range, an important factor for getting the most out of digital audio. A full-color LCD screen on the front panel supplies high-resolution metering for the M2’s two mic/line/instrument inputs and monitor outputs. Additionally, the M2 is equipped with 5-pin DIN MIDI I/O, which is ideal for connecting to any MOTU MIDI interface. Live streamers and podcasters at Sweetwater are fond of the M2’s loopback feature, which blends your input signals with the computer’s output signal and records them simultaneously. It’s great for integrating live internet calls and audio and video clips from sites like Twitter and YouTube into your broadcast.
Behringer U-Phoria UM2
By far the most affordable entry on the list, the Behringer U-Phoria UM2 is a no-frills audio interface that’s perfect for those just getting started on their recording journey. The U-Phoria UM2 gives you two inputs — a combination mic/line input and an instrument input — headphone and RCA stereo outputs, and +48V phantom power for using studio condensers. With the included copy of Tracktion recording software and over 150 downloadable virtual instruments and effects, the U-Phoria UM2 is arguably the most value-packed interface in its price range.
IK Multimedia iRig Pro Duo
The IK Multimedia iRig Pro Duo is an excellent portable audio-recording solution. Smaller than the size of most fists, the iRig Pro Duo has two combination mic/instrument inputs, 2.5mm MIDI I/O jacks, TRS stereo output, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. That’s a lot of functionality for not a lot of real estate. Compatible with iOS and Android, the iRig Pro Duo turns your mobile device into a professional-sounding audio recording unit. And, with the option to power it via two AA batteries, the iRig Pro Duo is ready to record no matter where you are — band practice, impromptu jam sessions, or late at night when inspiration strikes.
iZotope Spire Studio Portable Wireless Recorder
The iZotope Spire Studio is a mobile recording system with some unexpected features. The Spire Studio uses an integrated Wi-Fi access point to pair wirelessly with Android and iOS devices. Its powerful app lets you record up to eight tracks (two simultaneously) per project, which can be mixed in the app or exported to your favorite DAW for mixing and editing. Spire Studio is stocked with two Grace Design preamps with phantom power. No mic? No problem. Spire Studio comes with a built-in omnidirectional microphone. Once you’ve recorded a track, get creative with Spire Studio’s built-in reverbs, delays, amp modelers, and other effects. And, when you’re ready to let the world hear your music, share it instantly on social media right through the app!
Whether you’re purchasing your first audio interface, looking to upgrade, or needing an additional interface, Sweetwater’s got you covered. If you have questions about the audio interfaces on this list or any others on our site, please reach out to one of our knowledgeable Sales Engineers at (800) 222-4700. They’re always happy to help!
