There are a staggering number of audio interfaces on the market today. And here at Sweetwater, we’ve put them all through their paces: USB, Thunderbolt, PCI, FireWire (remember FireWire?), and more.
And while there are a number of interface protocols, this list focuses solely on USB audio interfaces. Why? Simply put, USB is everywhere. It’s a universal standard, and nearly every modern computer or tablet supports it. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that USB audio interfaces boast the widest compatibility with Mac, PC, and iOS devices.
If you’re searching for the best USB audio interface available today, then you’re in luck! Buckle up as Sweetwater checks out the year’s top USB interfaces for every need and budget.
Note: At Sweetwater, we know there’s no such thing as “best” when it comes to music gear. Every player and artist has unique tastes, which is what makes selecting gear so fun! The items on this list feature some of our favorite products from top manufacturers to help you start your buying journey! Explore these recommendations and dive into Sweetwater’s massive collection of gear on our online store. For personalized picks and expert advice, please contact our knowledgeable Sweetwater Sales Engineers at (800) 222-4700!
- Best USB Audio Interfaces Under $200
- Best USB Audio Interfaces Under $500
- Best USB Audio Interfaces Under $1,000
Best USB Audio Interfaces Under $200
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 USB Audio Interface
Need a value-packed USB audio interface for personal or portable recording? If that’s the case, then the 25th Anniversary Edition of the PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 knocks it out of the park. Compatible with both Mac and PC, this 2-in/2-out USB 2.0 interface records at up to 24-bit/96kHz resolution and includes two preamps with combo inputs, phantom power, and an internal analog mixer that blends your direct input with your playback signal for low-latency monitoring. The AudioBox USB 96 is bus powered for maximum portability and includes PreSonus’s Studio One Artist DAW software and more than 6GB of third-party content.
| Product: | PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 |
| I/O: | 2 x 2 |
| Analog Inputs: | 2 x XLR 1/4-inch Combo (Mic/Line/Hi-Z) |
| Analog Outputs: | 2 x 1/4-inch TRS, 1 x 1/4-inch Headphones |
| A/D Resolution: | Up to 24-bit/96kHz |
| Software: | Studio One Artist, Studio Magic Plug-in Suite |
| Pros: | • Value-packed interface that’s perfect for beginners • Includes PreSonus’s Studio One Artist DAW • 2 combo inputs that accommodate mics and instruments • 5-pin MIDI I/O for connecting older MIDI devices |
| Cons: | Channels share phantom power. For individual phantom power, check out the MOTU M2 2 x 2 USB-C audio interface. Also, the headphone jack is located on the back. Check out the PreSonus AudioBox iTwo USB audio interface for a front-panel headphone jack. |
Q: Why does it matter if channels share phantom power?
A: Phantom power is used to supply power to condenser microphones and microphone boosters. Many affordable interfaces send phantom power to multiple channels simultaneously (often in even-numbered banks). For most applications, this doesn’t pose much of a problem. However, it can limit your ability to mix and match condenser and dynamic (especially ribbon) microphones in a multitrack recording application.
Universal Audio Volt 2 USB-C Audio Interface
With a Universal Audio Volt 2 USB-C audio interface, you get access to the company’s vaunted sound at an extremely accessible price point. It’s a 2-in/2-out interface with vintage aesthetics and outstanding conversion circuitry. Do you love vintage analog character? Then you’ll be happy to know that this interface comes stock with a Vintage Preamp mode to deliver tube-like dynamic saturation and clipping reminiscent of the legendary 610 preamps. As far as inputs go, the Volt 2 has two microphone preamps/input channels to handle microphones, instruments, and more. Plus, you get 5-pin MIDI I/O to integrate synths, keyboards, and other outboard gear. The Volt 2 is an ideal audio interface for podcasting, livestreaming, and music production. Add it to your studio and prepare to be impressed.
| Product: | Universal Audio Volt 2 |
| I/O: | 2 x 2 |
| Analog Inputs: | 2 x XLR 1/4-inch Combo (Mic/Line) |
| Analog Outputs: | 2 x 1/4-inch TRS, 1 x 1/4-inch Headphones |
| A/D Resolution: | Up to 24-bit/192kHz |
| Software: | UAD Plug-in Bundle |
| Pros: | • Switchable 610-styled preamp that contains discrete op-amps and solid-state electronics for tube-like vintage character • High sample rate that yields an extremely low round-trip latency — great for live monitoring through effects and amp sims • UAD software pack that provides some of the most authentic analog-inspired plug-ins in the industry |
| Cons: | Input channels for this audio interface share phantom power. For individual phantom power, check out the MOTU M2 2 x 2 USB-C audio interface. |
Arturia MiniFuse 2 USB-C Audio Interface
The Arturia MiniFuse 2 is an ultra-compact USB-C audio interface that is perfect for home studios and mobile recording setups. As part of Arturia’s award-winning AudioFuse range of interfaces, the MiniFuse 2 features professional-grade fidelity, thanks to two top-notch preamps, and supports sample rates up to 192kHz. A front-panel headphone jack with independent volume control and an input/USB mix knob for zero-latency monitoring are included on this straightforward interface. Electronic artists at Sweetwater were also delighted to discover classic 5-pin MIDI I/O jacks for connecting vintage synths and drum machines. And for content creators, the MiniFuse 2’s virtual stereo loopback channel allows you to monitor and record your computer’s audio while still using the interface’s two analog inputs, so you can stream and live cast with ease!
| Product: | Arturia MiniFuse 2 |
| I/O: | 2 x 2 |
| Analog Inputs: | 2 x XLR 1/4-inch Combo (Mic/Line) |
| Analog Outputs: | 2 x 1/4-inch TRS, 1 x 1/4-inch Headphones |
| A/D Resolution: | Up to 24-bit/192kHz |
| Software: | Ableton Live Lite, Analog Lab Intro, Auto-Tune (3-month Subscription), GUITAR RIG 6 LE, Splice (3-month Subscription) |
| Pros: | • Includes 4 of Arturia’s world-class effects plug-ins: preamp, plate reverb, tape echo, and chorus effect • Features audio loopback functionality for livestreaming and content creation • Extra USB-A port for saving on computer socket space • 5-pin MIDI I/O for connecting older MIDI devices |
| Cons: | Channels on this audio interface share phantom power. For a 2-channel interface with individual phantom power, check out the MOTU M2 2 x 2 USB-C audio interface. This interface is also limited to two inputs; the Arturia MiniFuse 4 USB-C audio interface doubles the channel count. |
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB Audio Interface
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 has long been one of Sweetwater’s most popular USB audio interfaces. Now, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB audio interface brings even greater value to the 2i2 lineup. Compatible with both Mac and PC, this 2-in/2-out interface boasts high-performance 24-bit/192kHz converters for top-notch sound and impressively low latency. Its two mic preamps pack a whopping +69dB of gain and include a re-engineered Air mode that models Focusrite’s legendary ISA console transformers. This audio interface also accommodates instruments and line-level sources. Even better, it can be USB bus powered for mobile portability. The Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen ships with a generous software bundle that includes Ableton Live Lite and a three-month subscription to Avid Pro Tools Artist — two of the most popular DAWs on the planet — alongside a Hitmaker Expansion bundle.
| Product: | Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen |
| I/O: | 2 x 2 |
| Analog Inputs: | 2 x XLR-1/4-inch Combo (Mic/Line/Hi-Z) |
| Analog Outputs: | 2 x 1/4-inch TRS, 1 x 1/4-inch Headphones |
| A/D Resolution: | Up to 24-bit/192kHz |
| Software: | Ableton Live Lite, Avid Pro Tools Artist and Complete Plugin Bundle (3-month Subscription Each), Brainworx bx_console Focusrite SC, Focusrite Fast Balancer and Red Plug-in Suite, Hitmaker Expansion Bundle, LANDR Studio (2-month Subscription) |
| Pros: | • Intuitive Halo level indicators for optimizing gain staging • Auto Gain and Clip Safe features that ensure every take is a keeper • Re-engineered Air circuitry for giving tracks that “big console sound,” even in the box |
| Cons: | There are no MIDI connections. Need MIDI I/O? See the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen USB audio interface. |
MOTU M2 2 x 2 USB-C Audio Interface
The MOTU M2 2 x 2 USB-C audio interface gives you top-notch performance, and it doesn’t cost you an arm and a leg! Compatible with Mac, PC, and iOS, this 2-in/2-out USB-C audio interface includes ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology, which enables you to hear your recording with absolute clarity. And its low-latency performance and great-sounding mic pres make recording a snap. Are you a podcaster? If so, then this USB audio interface’s built-in loopback functionality was tailor-made for you. You’ll also appreciate the M2’s full-color LCD screen, which provides you with convenient front-panel metering. And you can take the M2 anywhere, thanks to its ultra-compact, bus-powered design.
| Product: | MOTU M2 |
| I/O: | 2 x 2 |
| Analog Inputs: | 2 x XLR 1/4-inch Combo (Mic/Line/Hi-Z) |
| Analog Outputs: | 2 x 1/4-inch TRS (DC-coupled), 1 x Dual RCA Stereo, 1 x 1/4-inch Headphones |
| A/D Resolution: | Up to 24-bit/192kHz |
| Software: | MOTU Performer Lite, Ableton Live Lite, Bundled Loops/Sounds |
| Pros: | • 2 great-sounding mic/line/instrument preamps with individual gain and phantom power • Full-color LCD screen for convenient front-panel metering • Optimized drivers that yield round-trip latency as low as 2-1/2ms at 24-bit/96kHz with a 32 sample buffer • Loopback functionality for content creators • 5-pin DIN MIDI ports |
| Cons: | There’s no direct monitor mix adjustment with this audio interface, but it’s available on the MOTU M4 4 x 4 USB-C audio interface. The MOTU M2 is not expandable via ADAT optical (shop MOTU USB audio interfaces with ADAT optical inputs). |
Best USB Audio Interfaces Under $500
Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820 USB Audio Interface
If there was a prize for the ultimate bang-for-your-buck USB audio interface, then the Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820 USB audio interface would earn a top spot. This 18-in/20-out interface is a great low-cost way to transform your Mac or PC into a full-fledged studio. The U-PHORIA UMC1820 supplies you with 24-bit/96kHz audio, ample I/O for your gear, and simultaneous use of all signals for maximum expandability. Direct monitoring allows for low-latency cue mixes, and this audio interface’s dual headphone outputs boast individual level controls and monitor A/B source selection for DJ-style cueing.
| Product: | Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820 |
| I/O: | 18 x 20 |
| Analog Inputs: | 8 x XLR 1/4-inch Combo |
| Analog Outputs: | 2 x 1/4-inch TRS (Main Out), 8 x 1/4-inch TRS (Line-out), 2 x 1/4-inch Headphones |
| A/D Resolution: | Up to 24-bit/96kHz |
| Software: | N/A |
| Pros: | • Ample I/O that provides extensive connectivity — great for recording full drum kits • Midas-designed mic preamps that deliver high-quality audio reproduction • Dual headphone outputs with separate level controls and monitor A/B source select for DJ-style cueing |
| Cons: | This interface is limited to 24-bit/96kHz resolution. For higher resolution (but fewer channels), see the Behringer U-PHORIA UMC404HD USB audio interface. |
Solid State Logic SSL2+ USB Audio Interface
How’d you like to inject your home or portable studio with the legendary SSL sound? Thanks to the Solid State Logic SSL2+ USB audio interface for your Mac or PC, that idea is no longer a mere fantasy. Fire up the SSL2+’s Legacy 4K mode, and you’ll inject everything that passes through its two class-leading microphone preamps with the signature 4000 Series console sound. Other features include a high-output headphone amp and easy-to-read front-panel metering. This rock-solid, 2-in/4-out audio interface includes 24-bit/192kHz AKM converters, Neutrik connectors, and Alps pots — all high-end components, just as you’d expect from one of the world’s leading console manufacturers. A robust selection of software, including a selection of SSL Native plug-ins, adds value to the SSL2+.
| Product: | Solid State Logic SSL2+ |
| I/O: | 2 x 4 |
| Analog Inputs: | 2 x XLR 1/4-inch Combo (Mic/Line/Hi-Z) |
| Analog Outputs: | 2 x 1/4-inch TRS (L/R), 2 x Dual RCA Stereo (2 x Paired Out / 1-4), 2 x 1/4-inch Headphones |
| A/D Resolution: | Up to 24-bit/192kHz |
| Software: | SSL Production Pack, Third-party Bundled Software |
| Pros: | • Legendary SSL sound for your home or portable studio with 2 class-leading microphone preamps • Legacy 4K mode that imparts 4000 Series analog console sound • SSL Native software bundle with Vocalstrip 2 and Drumstrip • Solid build quality with heavy-duty chassis, Neutrik connectors, and Alps pots |
| Cons: | None to speak of at this price point! |
IK Multimedia AXE I/O + AmpliTube 5 MAX + TONEX MAX Bundle
If you’re a guitar player looking for an interface that caters to your specific needs, then we recommend the IK Multimedia AXE I/O + AmpliTube 5 MAX + TONEX MAX Bundle. This interface-plus-software bundle brings the elusive tone, feel, and responsiveness of a tube amp to your DAW in a highly streamlined system, courtesy of its amp-like JFET analog input stage, low-latency USB connection, and AmpliTube 5 MAX’s next-gen sound engine. The AXE I/O + AmpliTube 5 MAX + TONEX MAX Bundle covers all the bases for every genre, from traditional blues to modern metal, and it comes jam-packed with licensed artist and manufacturer gear collections. Just because you’re not miking up an amp doesn’t mean you need to settle for a lackluster tone. With this bundle, you’ll have access to an endless array of inspiring sounds!
| Product: | IK Multimedia AXE I/O + AmpliTube 5 MAX + TONEX MAX Bundle |
| I/O: | 2 x 5 |
| Analog Inputs: | 2 x 1/4-inch (Instrument/Line/Mic), 2 x XLR 1/4-inch Combo (Mic/Line) |
| Analog Outputs: | 1 x 1/4-inch (Amp), 4 x 1/4-inch (Line), 1 x 1/4-inch Headphones |
| A/D Resolution: | Up to 24-bit/192kHz |
| Software: | AmpliTube 5 MAX Bundle, TONEX MAX |
| Pros: | • AXE I/O’s JFET input stage that adds analog mojo to your incoming instrument signal • Z-Tone variable impedance that optimizes your instrument for AmpliTube’s virtual amps and stomps • Dedicated re-amp output and expression pedal inputs • Includes AmpliTube 5 MAX, IK Multimedia’s game-changing virtual amplification for guitar and bass |
| Cons: | This audio interface does not include a traditional starter DAW in its software package (shop DAWs at Sweetwater). |
Universal Audio Volt 476 USB-C Audio Interface
You just can’t beat the warmth and character of analog recording, and the Universal Audio Volt 476 USB-C audio interface really delivers! True to what Universal Audio’s reputation was built on, the Volt 476 provides two analog mic preamps that offer a switchable Vintage Preamp mode that emulates the saturation of Universal Audio’s classic 610 tube preamp. And when it comes to compression, the Volt 476 offers a real FET analog compressor based on the iconic UREI 1176. With a 3-way push-button mode selector, you’ll be able to optimize your recording sessions for vocals, guitars, and fast sources (drums) individually, delivering that perfect amount of warm analog sound. A cutting-edge native software bundle is also included, so you’ll be ready to start recording from the moment you plug in!
| Product: | Universal Audio Volt 476 |
| I/O: | 4 x 4 |
| Analog Inputs: | 2 x XLR 1/4-inch Combo (Mic/Instrument), 2 x 1/4-inch (Line) |
| Analog Outputs: | 2 x 1/4-inch (Monitor L/R), 4 x 1/4-inch (Line), 1 x 1/4-inch Headphones |
| A/D Resolution: | Up to 24-bit/192kHz |
| Software: | Ableton Live Lite, Melodyne Essential, UJAM, Softube Marshall, Plugin Alliance Ampeg, Relab LX480 Essentials |
| Pros: | • Selectable Vintage Preamp mode that employs solid-state electronics for tube-like dynamic saturation and clipping • Built-in 1176-derived analog compressor with 3 expert presets • Top-flight analog circuitry and class-leading 24-bit/192kHz AD/DA conversion |
| Cons: | This interface does not include onboard DSP for UAD DSP-powered plugins, but the Universal Audio Apollo Solo Heritage Edition USB-C audio interface features onboard DSP. |
Black Lion Audio Revolution 2 x 2 USB Audio Interface
Black Lion Audio’s engineers got their start modifying and upgrading components in popular digital audio interfaces, and they have translated that knowledge and expertise into an impressive original interface that punches well above its weight. The Black Lion Audio Revolution 2 x 2 USB audio interface features two channels of superior preamplification, cutting-edge Macro-MMC Clocking technology, and bespoke AD/DA conversion. It also includes a PreSonus Studio One Artist download code as well as a great software plug-in library from iZotope, Brainworx BX, and Lindell Audio. Home-recording enthusiasts at Sweetwater agree: the Revolution 2 x 2 provides a level of professional studio performance that’s rare in an interface this portable and affordable.
| Product: | Black Lion Audio Revolution 2 x 2 |
| I/O: | 2 x 2 |
| Analog Inputs: | 2 x XLR 1/4-inch Combo (Mic/Line/Hi-Z) |
| Analog Outputs: | 2 x 1/4-inch TRS, 1 x 1/4-inch Headphones |
| A/D Resolution: | Up to 24-bit/192kHz |
| Software: | PreSonus Studio One Artist, Revolution Plug-in Suite |
| Pros: | • USB interface with professional-grade AD/DA conversion and clocking • 2 premium mic/line/instrument preamps that offer exceptional audio capture • Cutting-edge Macro-MMC Clocking technology • Fully decoupled I/O and noise-reducing PG-i technology |
| Cons: | The included software package is not as comprehensive as some interfaces. To expand your production tool kit, explore the affordably priced Black Lion Audio Revolution 2 x 2 and iZotope Music Production Suite 5 Bundle from Sweetwater. |
Best USB Audio Interfaces Under $1,000
PreSonus Studio 1824c USB-C Audio Interface
The PreSonus Studio 1824c USB-C audio interface is another top-notch offering from our friends in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This 18-in/18-out, Mac- and PC-compatible USB-C audio interface delivers 24-bit/192kHz sound quality and includes eight of PreSonus’s highly regarded XMAX preamps that run on 30-volt power rails for amazing sound and maximum headroom. A lightpipe port for eight channels of ADAT I/O supplies ample room for expansion. You also get two independent headphone outputs; front-panel mute and mono buttons; and balanced, DC-coupled line outputs. MIDI I/O; S/PDIF I/O; a BNC word-clock output; and flexible, zero-latency, DSP-based monitor mixing are also included. In addition to Studio One Artist software, the Studio 1824c includes an excellent suite of top-tier plug-ins.
| Product: | PreSonus Studio 1824c |
| I/O: | 18 x 18 |
| Analog Inputs: | 2 x XLR-1/4-inch Combo (Mic/Line/Hi-Z), 6 x XLR (Mic/Line) |
| Analog Outputs: | 8 x 1/4-inch TRS (Line), 2 x 1/4-inch (Main Out), 2 x 1/4-inch Headphones |
| A/D Resolution: | Up to 24-bit/192kHz |
| Software: | Studio One Artist, Studio Magic Plug-in Suite |
| Pros: | • 2 mic/instrument/line inputs and 6 mic/line inputs — all fitted with XMAX Class A mic preamps • DC-coupled outputs that can send control voltages from your DAW to your synths and drum machines • Easy-to-read LED metering on all analog inputs and main outs • Monitor mix control with free UC Surface software for Mac, Windows, iPad, and Android |
| Cons: | None to speak of at this price point! |
Apogee Duet 3 2 x 4 USB-C Audio Interface
On all fronts, the Apogee Duet 3 2 x 4 USB-C audio interface is engineered for top-of-the-line performance. Boasting high-spec AD/DA converters, superior digital clocking, ultra-clean analog circuitry, and exceptional power management, the Duet 3 does more than you could imagine from such a compact enclosure. Its premium microphone preamps will handle anything your recording session sends their way with absolutely minimal distortion — from drums to vocals, strings, and brass, you’re covered! The Duet 3 contains onboard DSP so that it can provide zero-latency sound shaping right at the input source for a quick and responsive user experience. Apogee’s ECS Channel Strip offers fantastic EQ, compression, and saturation built in and pairs well with the included Apogee Control 2 software to unleash each impressive function that the Duet 3 offers. On top of all that, its sleek, modern, and compact design will suit studios of every size and caliber.
| Product: | Apogee Duet 3 |
| I/O: | 2 x 4 |
| Analog Inputs: | 2 x 1/4-inch (Instrument), 2 x XLR (Mic/Line) |
| Analog Outputs: | 2 x 1/4-inch TRS, 1 x 1/8-inch Headphones |
| A/D Resolution: | Up to 24-bit/192kHz |
| Software: | Apogee ECS Channel Strip, Apogee Channel FX |
| Pros: | • Top-quality Apogee AD/DA conversion and digital clocking with pristine analog circuitry and thoughtfully engineered power management • 2 world-class mic preamps with +65dB of gain, +48V phantom power, and Apogee’s Advanced Stepped Gain Architecture • Onboard hardware DSP that enables you to shape your sound right at the input stage with zero latency • Includes a hardware-accelerated version of Apogee’s ECS Channel Strip |
| Cons: | The Duet 3 is not expandable via ADAT optical; the Apogee Symphony Desktop 10 x 14 USB-C audio interface is expandable up to 10 inputs. The Duet 3 also does not include a traditional starter DAW in its software package (shop DAWs at Sweetwater). |
RME Babyface Pro FS 24-channel USB Audio Interface
Another pro-level USB audio interface is the 24-channel RME Babyface Pro FS. This 12-in/12-out portable interface offers top-shelf AD/DA conversion, plus SteadyClock femtosecond technology for ultra-stable clocking. Just for reference, a femtosecond is 1/1,000,000,000,000,000 of a second — that’s pretty darn small! The Babyface Pro FS’s two digitally controlled preamps achieve reference-quality recording, while a full complement of analog, digital, and MIDI connectivity makes integration with your studio a cinch. This audio interface boasts one of the most fully flexible built-in digital mixers out there with 288 channels, 46-bit internal resolution, and latency-free processing, including a 3-band EQ, low-cut filter, reverb, and echo. The Babyface Pro FS’s onboard metering is among the best with peak and RMS presentation. This bus-powered desktop USB audio interface includes a premium plug-in bundle with offerings from Scuffham, Brainworx, and more. The Babyface Pro FS works with Mac, PC, and iOS.
| Product: | RME Babyface Pro FS |
| I/O: | 12 x 12: 4 x 4 (Analog), 8 x 8 (Digital) |
| Analog Inputs: | 2 x XLR (Mic), 2 x 1/4-inch (Hi-Z/Line) |
| Analog Outputs: | 2 x XLR (+4dBu/+19dBu) |
| A/D Resolution: | Up to 24-bit/192kHz |
| Software: | RME TotalMix FX, Total Mix Remote (iOS, Mac, PC), Brainworx Plug-ins, Scuffham S-Gear Amp Collection |
| Pros: | • Rugged, low-profile housing for a great, clean look that still offers deep control • Ample analog, digital, and MIDI connectivity for making integration with your studio easy • SteadyClock femtosecond technology that yields ultra-stable clocking • TotalMix FX that gives you a fully flexible 288-channel mixer with 46-bit internal resolution |
| Cons: | This audio interface maxes out at 12-input and 12-output channels. If you need more, then check out the RME Fireface UCX II 40-channel USB interface. The Babyface Pro FS also does not include a traditional starter DAW in its software package (shop DAWs at Sweetwater). |
Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface
Now in its third generation, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen USB audio interface is destined to become the heart of your home or project studio. You get eight mic/line combination inputs, two instrument inputs, additional ADAT I/O, MIDI, and two headphone outputs — a seriously impressive feat all at a very comfortable price. The interface is equipped with high-performance 24-bit/192kHz converters for uncompromising audio fidelity. What’s more, it has an optimized gain structure and latency so low that it basically disappears. You also get the renowned Air circuit that emulates Focusrite’s legendary ISA microphone preamps. Engaging the Air button does exactly what the label says, adding extra clarity in the high frequencies. The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 excels anywhere that high channel counts and exceptional audio quality are required.
| Product: | Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen |
| I/O: | 18 x 20 |
| Analog Inputs: | 2 x XLR-1/4-inch Combo (Mic/Hi-Z), 6 x XLR-1/4-inch Combo (Mic/Line) |
| Analog Outputs: | 10 x 1/4-inch (Line), 2 x 1/4-inch Headphones |
| A/D Resolution: | Up to 24-bit/192kHz |
| Software: | Ableton Live Lite, Avid Pro Tools Artist + Complete Plugin Bundle (3-month subscription each), Brainworx bx_console Focusrite SC, Focusrite FAST Balancer & Red Plug-in Suite, Hitmaker Expansion Bundle (Antares Auto-Tune Access, Native Instruments MASSIVE synth, Softube Marshall Silver Jubilee 255, Relab LX480 Essentials, XLN Addictive Drums & Addictive Keys), and Landr Studio (2-month subscription) |
| Pros: | • Generous I/O — enough for the whole band • 8 Clarett+ mic preamps with Focusrite’s proprietary Air feature • Easy-to-use software mixer for configuring your monitoring and routing |
| Cons: | • Rackmount format requires a 19-inch audio rack or significant desk space. For a slimmer tabletop format, see the 2-channel Apollo Twin X below. |
Universal Audio Apollo Twin X DUO Heritage Edition 10 x 6 Thunderbolt Audio Interface with UAD DSP
Universal Audio Apollo interfaces are unlike any other interface on the market. They leverage proprietary DSP technology and preamps that are in a league of their own. The Universal Audio Apollo Twin X DUO Heritage Edition 10 x 6 Thunderbolt audio interface with UAD DSP takes that cutting-edge tech and crams it into a compact and powerful tabletop interface. Its Unison preamps mirror the impedance and gain structure of classic hardware preamps to give you tons of sonic options when recording. Plus, with the power of UAD DSP, you can track and mix through plug-ins in real time. How’s that for impressive? The Apollo Twin X DUO Heritage Edition includes five award-winning emulations of classic analog equipment and the Realtime Analog Classics bundle. With the Universal Audio Apollo Twin X DUO Heritage Edition, you’re buying more than an interface — you’re purchasing the spirit and sound of the industry’s most well-respected outboard gear, too.
| Product: | Universal Audio Apollo Twin X DUO Heritage Edition |
| I/O: | 10 x 6 |
| Analog Inputs: | 2 x XLR-1/4-inch Combo (Mic/Line), 1 x 1/4-inch (Hi-Z) |
| Analog Outputs: | 2 x 1/4-inch (Monitor), 2 x 1/4-inch (Line-out) |
| A/D Resolution: | Up to 24-bit/192kHz |
| Software: | UAD plug-in bundle, UA LUNA |
| Pros: | • Onboard DSP that offsets CPU load on your host machine • Heritage Edition plug-in bundle that includes virtualizations of the UA 1176 compressor, Teletronix LA-2A leveler, and Pultec passive tube EQ — giants of the analog production world • Unison preamp technology that switches internal circuitry to mimic the impedance and gain structure of famous plug-in models in real time without adding latency |
| Cons: | This audio interface’s dual-core architecture may be limited for higher-draw UAD plug-ins. For greater DSP, consider the four-core Universal Audio Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition 10 x 6 Thunderbolt audio interface with UAD DSP. |
Sweetwater Has the USB Audio Interface for You
There you have it — Sweetwater’s picks for the best USB audio interfaces of the year. If you have any questions about any of the gear on this list (or pro audio gear in general), then give your Sweetwater Sales Engineer a call at (800) 222-4700. They’re always on the case and happy to help!
