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 for Pro Studios
Best USB Audio Interfaces Under $200
Fender Studio Quantum LT 4 USB-C Audio Interface
Need a value-packed USB audio interface for personal or portable recording? The Fender Studio Quantum LT 4 knocks it out of the park. Compatible with both Mac and PC, this 4-in/2-out USB-C interface records at up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution and includes two MAX-HD preamps, phantom power, and an internal analog mixer that blends your direct input with your playback signal for low-latency monitoring. The Fender Studio Quantum LT 4 is bus powered for maximum portability and includes a six-month free trial of Fender Studio Pro.
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.
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 livestream with ease!
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 accommodates instrument and line-level sources and is easily portable. 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.
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.
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.
PreSonus Quantum ES 2 USB-C Audio Interface
Are you related to a self-producing, apartment-dwelling guitarist or bassist? Gift them the PreSonus Quantum ES 2 USB-C audio interface and watch their eyes light up. This black-and-blue beauty sports a front-mounted, dedicated instrument input co-designed by Fender that makes it effortless for guitarists and bassists to plug in and get to work.Its autogain feature will keep even the most crank-happy heavy-metal maniacs from clipping the preamp — unless, of course, they crank their instrument’s signal as well as the Quantum’s +75dB of preamp gain! Thankfully, a dedicated headphone out is onboard to keep the neighbors at bay.Finally, a six-month subscription to the Studio One+ suite gives them all the recording and compositional firepower they could ever want.
Lewitt Connect 2 USB-C Audio Interface
Lewitt bills the Connect 2 USB-C audio interface as “the most user-friendly audio interface,” and frankly, it’s difficult to disagree. A single-touch panel switches between changing mic, instrument, speaker, and headphone gain by simply pressing one of the easily identifiable buttons, and you can mute each channel individually. A giant autogain button right in the middle simply begs to be pushed, and you’ll be glad you did once you hear how it — coupled with the features found in the Lewitt Control Center app, including Auto Setup and Clipguard — effortlessly cleans up and polishes your sound. Finally, a “custom button” lets you assign (and reassign at will) a shortcut from a simple drop-down menu to speed up your workflow.
Best USB Audio Interfaces Under $500
Solid State Logic SSL 2+ MKII 2 x 4 USB-C Audio Interface
Simply put, the SSL 2+ MKII audio interface is a very well-thought-out device. We’re amazed at how many features SSL packed into this puppy, such as support for 32-bit/192kHz resolution, an SSL Legacy 4K Enhancement Circuit (based on their legendary 4000-series consoles) at the push of a button, per-channel VU/HPF/line-input selection/+48V phantom power, and dual auto-detect instrument DI inputs. It’s also one of few interfaces at this price point to have dual headphone outs. Last, but not least, the SSL Production Pack is simply one of the best plug-in suites in the industry.
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!
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!
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 includes PreSonus Studio One as well as a great software plug-in library from iZotope, Brainworx, 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.
PreSonus Quantum HD 2 USB-C Audio Interface
Remember the self-producing, apartment-dwelling guitarist or bassist relative we mentioned earlier? Gift them the PreSonus Quantum HD 2 USB-C audio interface and watch their eyes light up even more! The HD 2 is essentially the big brother to the ES 2 that we saw earlier, and its upgrades are significant. There are now two front-mounted, dedicated instrument inputs as well as two dedicated re-amp outputs that again make it ideal for guitar, bass, and keyboard. However, ADAT Optical I/O is where this sibling really flexes its musical muscles. Everything else is as good as the ES 2 or better: autogain, MAX-HD preamps, loopback, the Universal Control app, and a year subscription to the Studio One+ suite.
Audient iD24 10 x 14 USB-C Audio Interface
If easy connectivity is what you’re after, then be sure to check out the Audient iD24 10 x 14 USB-C audio interface. It sports 10 x 6 simultaneous I/O plus ADAT expandability — enough to handle your fair share of sessions. The center section seems to have been designed with this concept in mind: its dedicated cut and trim buttons plus buttons for speaker selection, polarity, and more simply scream “mini console.” Plus, the iD Software Mixer integrates your hardware with its virtual workspace so you can take direct, seamless control of your monitoring, mixing, and routing. It’s like having an interface and a control surface in one!
Focusrite Scarlett 18i16 4th Gen USB Audio Interface
Another interface that is more than beginner-friendly is the Focusrite Scarlett 18i16 4th Gen USB audio interface. It features an Easy Start tool as well as Auto Gain, Clip Safe, and Dynamic Gain Halos for easy gain staging. Once everything is set, pay attention to how clean and transparent the mic preamps and RedNet-derived AD/DA conversion are. If you’d like a little more character, then simply press the Air button to switch on Air Mode and listen how your top end comes alive. All in all, the 18i16 is stacked with impressive features, especially for its price point.
Best USB Audio Interfaces Under $1,000
PreSonus Quantum HD 8 USB-C Audio Interface
Now we come to the scion of all PreSonus interfaces: the PreSonus Quantum HD 8 USB-C audio interface. Perhaps most impressive about this flagship product is that it comes in under $1,000! You get 26 x 30 I/O with 16 channels of ADAT, 32-bit/192kHz resolution, and MAX-HD preamps that provide superb sound quality. Fender-designed front-mounted instrument inputs are here alongside dedicated re-amp outputs, and 10 DC-coupled audio outputs enable you to integrate CV-controlled gear into your setup, as well. The always welcome autogain feature is onboard, and the Universal Control app permits you to run sessions from your smart device. Finally, the Quantum HD 8 includes a full-year subscription to the Studio One+ suite and a perpetual Studio One Professional Edition license that continues after the 12-months subscription ends.
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.
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.
Universal Audio Apollo Twin X DUO Gen 2 Thunderbolt Audio Interface with UAD DSP
Here’s Universal Audio again, this time with the Apollo Twin X DUO Gen 2 10 x 6 Thunderbolt audio interface with UAD DSP. This interface packs all the punch you expect from UA with two Unison preamps, the Essentials+ plugin suite, and near-zero latency. UAD plugins are considered the crème de la crème by many engineers here at Sweetwater, and this audio interface is stacked full of them. There are also two premium mic/line inputs, two line outputs, a front-panel hi-Z instrument input and headphone output, and two digitally controlled analog monitor outputs. Simply put, if you’re after premium sound but don’t require loads of connectivity, then this desktop interface is seriously tough to beat.
MOTU 828 28 x 32 USB 3.0 Audio Interface
Now in its fifth generation, the MOTU 828 28 x 32 USB 3.0 audio interface is better than ever before. It’s always been known for its excellent connectivity and expandability options, but its revamped microphone preamps with +74dB of available gain and its ESS Sabre32 D/A converters really crank things to 11. You’ll also love the 828’s integrated 24-channel digital mixer with built-in DSP effects and its control-room functions such as talkback and A/B monitor switching that are super-handy to have directly on the interface. If you’re an I/O aficionado, then the MOTU 828 has you more than covered: 28 in, 32 out, two banks of optical I/O, word clock and MIDI I/O, and an optical expansion mode. The 828 also sports multichannel monitor control, so it offers a real bang for your buck if you work in surround.
Best USB Audio Interfaces for Pro Studios
Historically, USB interfaces were thought of as being more for beginners and hobbyists than for professional studios, with those leaning toward FireWire (remember that?) or Thunderbolt-based interfaces. Today, however, USB interfaces run the gamut from “baby’s first interface” to gargantuan feats of electrical engineering that any pro studio would love to house within their racks. Let’s look at some USB audio interfaces for the pro studio.
RME Fireface UFX III USB 3.0 Audio Interface
RME is back with the not-so-baby-faced Fireface UFX III USB 3.0 audio interface. As you might garner from its name, this thing is fire! A whopping 94-in/94-out interface with 128 channels of MADI I/O just begs to be put to use on large-scale projects, and its four upgraded mic preamps, AD/DA converters, and SteadyClock FS ensure that everything will be in sync and sound fantastic. Connectivity aside, you’ll also enjoy the Fireface’s internal DSP effects with up to 188 channels of both EQ and dynamics processing as well as a reverb/delay bus, control-room features, and automatic mic gain — always a welcome addition. Direct USB recording is possible via RME’s DURec feature, and you can also control the unit remotely with TotalMix Remote software, available on your Mac, iOS smart devices, or PC. Simply put, you’ll be hard-pressed to find an interface more up to the task than the Fireface UFX III.
Arturia AudioFuse 16Rig USB Audio Interface
Arturia’s AudioFuse 16Rig USB audio interface deftly enhances the groundbreaking features of its predecessor, the AudioFuse Studio, with exceptional connectivity and modularity. It offers a comprehensive, matrix-style interface suited for complex audio routing, monitoring, re-amping, and live recording. Equipped with 16 analog inputs, 12 outputs, ADAT I/O, word clock I/O, USB, MIDI, and a variety of headphone and output options, it provides incredible flexibility and control. The standalone functionality allows users to operate the device without a DAW, which lends it to an immense number of potential applications. Its high-quality 24-bit A/D conversion ensures pristine audio from all sources, and the two sets of ADAT I/O enable management of up to 16 channels at 96kHz or 192kHz for smaller sessions. The AudioFuse 16Rig also supports MIDI control, integrating seamlessly with external gear and MIDI-enabled devices, and is further configurable through the AudioFuse Control Center software. The Routing Matrix allows users to direct any source to any destination, facilitating complex configurations of analog, digital, software, and hardware combinations. Finally, its eight preset slots store complete system states, simplifying recall and setup for different projects.
Cranborne Audio 500R8 8-slot 500 Series Chassis & USB Audio Interface
How best to describe the Cranborne Audio 500R8? We say, a studio in a rack. A 28-in/30-out USB interface, analog summing mixer, monitor controller, and 8-slot high-current 500 Series chassis . . . all in one device? Don’t pinch yourself because the Cranborne Audio 500R8 is all that and more! Reference-grade headphone amps and master clocking are onboard, as are two aux buses for creating analog cue mixes. You can integrate your 19-inch rack units via the 500R8’s dedicated per-slot TRS insert jacks, and the C.A.S.T. system transmits four channels of analog audio over Cat 5. Dedicated slot bypass switches also ensure you only color your sounds with the 500 Series processors of your choice. Finally, you can connect additional 500 Series modules with the Cranborne 500ADAT.
Neumann MT 48 USB-C/Dante Audio Interface
The Neumann MT 48 is a powerhouse desktop audio interface that combines pristine audio quality with features designed for serious studio use. Specifically optimized for Neumann’s studio microphones, KH series monitors, and NDH headphones — but compatible with any gear — the MT 48 offers unmatched clarity with its high-precision AD/DA conversion, delivering an impressive 136dB dynamic range. Equipped with two premium mic/line preamps and ample I/O, including ADAT, S/PDIF, Dante, and AES67 expansion options, this interface suits any project from vocal tracking to complex mix setups. With onboard DSP, you get a 4-band EQ, dynamics processing, and studio-grade reverb all easily accessible via touchscreen. Flexible monitoring options let you control four separate mixes while Direct Output Technology enables you to monitor with effects, print them, or even record an unprocessed backup. With its intuitive design and Neumann’s renowned quality, the MT 48 is an interface that high-end studios and discerning creators should know.
Apogee Symphony Studio 8 x 16 Audio Interface
The Apogee Symphony Studio offers sensational audio quality and versatility with three models tailored to meet your studio’s needs. This configuration of the powerhouse interface provides eight mic/line inputs, 16 line-level outputs, and immersive audio support for Dolby Atmos configurations up to 9.1.6. Symphony Mk II–class converters and transparent preamps with 75dB of gain ensure pristine sound capture while two independent, 0-ohm headphone outputs deliver clear, detailed monitoring. Built-in DSP speaker calibration with EQ, delay, and bass management keeps your setup accurate, and the Symphony Studio channel strip adds professional input processing. Advanced monitoring control, compatible with stereo and 9.1.6 setups, includes support for one or two subwoofers. Seamlessly manage your monitoring with the included Apogee Control 2 software, supporting 16 workflows, or enhance your workflow with the optional Apogee Control hardware remote featuring eight programmable buttons. With plug-and-play USB-C connectivity, Mac and Windows compatibility, and a low-latency monitoring experience, the Apogee Symphony Studio combines functionality with Apogee’s renowned sound quality.
Neve 1073SPX-D Channel Strip USB Audio Interface
If you absolutely must have that legendary Neve sound (who could blame you?), then you must check out the Neve 1073SPX-D channel strip USB audio interface. It’s a complete 1073 channel strip with an integrated audio interface housed in a sleek, easily rackmounted 1U chassis with 8 x 8 ADAT Optical I/O. Neve’s revered Class A circuitry definitely makes an appearance, as do custom Neve Marinair transformers on the input and output stages and the famous 1073 preamp with 80dB of gain. You also get a classic 1073 3-band EQ with 18dB-per-octave HPF at 50, 80, 160, or 300Hz, and 24-bit/192kHz AD/DA conversion. Last, ADAT expansion gives you more channels to use the 1073 channel strip, and DIGI I/O means you can use it as a hardware insert in your DAW. The Neve 1073SPX-D channel strip makes a great purchase whether you need an interface or not!
Prism Sound Lyra 2 2 x 4 USB Audio Interface
Need world-class sound but not tons of connectivity? The Prism Sound Lyra 2 2 x 4 USB audio interface may be just what the audio doctor ordered. Reference-grade AD/DA conversion, among the most stable clocking that Sweetwater has encountered, two A-level microphone preamplifiers, an Overkiller soft limiter, and Verifile data-corruption detector give any small studio or on-the-go producer more than enough fidelity. The Lyra 2 offers supreme utility, as well, via its software control panel. This is where you’ll find the Mid-Side and soft-clipping functionalities alongside the additional optical input channels.
Sweetwater Has the Perfect 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!
