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10 Best Budget Audio Interface (Reviews + Buying Guide)
If you are looking for the Best Budget Audio Interface you have come to the right place
To avail the rich audio quality, you need to have the audio interfaces that are yet the essential pieces for studios, especially for recording setups. If you are starting your career as a musician, DJ or beatmaker, your first purchase should be from this guide. Because this article guides about the most suitable product as per your needs. Here is everything that you need to know about the best-selling products in the market before investing your hard-earned money.
For ones you have decided on the best budget audio interface, you will be able to connect everything from microphones and electric guitars, to synths and other instruments even MIDI equipment, too – and you will have no problem hooking up a pair of studio monitors or plugging in your studio headphones. However, there is no other budget-friendly way to make your recordings sound so good. It is something that delivers all the core benefits of an interface, like recording instruments, monitoring on studio headphones and playing back work on studio monitors, while keeping a keen eye on price.
These are the Best Budget Audio Interface we tested ranked, in order:
Audient EVO 4 USB Audio Interface
Native Instruments Komplete Audio
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 2×2 USB Audio Interface
Mackie Audio Interface, Onyx Artist 1X2 USB Audio Interface
Tascam US-2x2HR 2 Mic 2IN/2OUT High Resolution
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface
M-Audio AIR 192|4 – 2-In/2-Out USB Audio Interface
M-Audio AIR 192|8 – 2-In 4-Out USB Audio
Steinberg UR22C 2×2 USB 3.0 Audio Interface
Audient iD4 USB 2-in/2-out High-Performance Audio Interface
Recommendations are independently chosen by SavingSays editors. Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission.
1) Audient EVO 4 USB Audio Interface
Features:
32bit-192KHz audio resolution
Connectivity to Mac, PC, and iOS
Gain Range 58db
Mic Pre EIN -127db
Dynamic Range 113db
Compatible with all major software
Zero-latency monitoring
Review
Audient EVO 4 is the best budget audio interface that delivers a powerful recording solution no matter what your artform is. Whether you are an artist, a musician or a podcaster and looking for a high-quality interface to record yourself, you must check Audient EVO 4. Its 2-channel USB interface makes the audio capturing effortless. This may look tiny but it contains two pristine mic pres, a Hi-Z input for instruments, two 1/4″ monitor outputs. A headphone out that can power a variety of cans with power, however, JFET-powered DI is most appreciated for the guitars, basses, and keys.
Pros
Loopback function for audio cast
MIDI input and output
Compatible with all audio software
Excellent mic amplifiers
Cons
DC Volt power adaptor is not included in the package
2) Native Instruments Komplete Audio
Features:
2x combo-XLR/jack inputs
48V phantom power
Flexible Stereo Recording
High-power output
VU Meter for accuracy
USB 2.0 for maximum portability
Drivers for Mac/PC
Review
This set is perfectly compatible with stereo recordings. This Audio Interface is for anyone who wants to capture ideas, produce, or use high-quality audio in their live sets. It includes all the software you need for polishing your recordings. Offers high-resolution recording at up to 24-bit / 192 kHz. Featuring two XLR-1/4″ combo inputs with selectable phantom power and line/instrument switches. The KOMPLETE AUDIO 2 effectively manages the input levels via per-channel gain controls and dual five-segment LED input meters.
Pros
Easily record audio into your computer
Perform with over 2000 studio-quality sounds
Super Compatible
Decent five-part input metering
Cons
There are no scalings on the control bar
3) PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 2×2 USB Audio Interface
Features:
2 high-quality Class-A mic
2 high-headroom instrument inputs
Studio-grade converters
DAW Recording Software
Over $1,000 of computer recording software plug-ins
Review
If you are on a tight budget, the AudioBox USB 96 audio interface is absolutely compatible. It is a simple, handy little audio/MIDI interface that has the right features for basic recording needs. It allows you to plug in and start recording up to 24-bit, 96 kHz audio. The AudioBox USB 96 has made the recording way easier. AudioBox USB 96 audio interface works with virtually all Mac and Windows audio-recording software. It has been capable of providing great sound on countless albums, podcasts, live streams, and Zoom calls. There’s no wonder it’s the best-selling interface of all time.
Pros
Low latency headphone monitoring
The full version of Studio One
Durable chassis
Driverless installation
Cons
You need to splash out for the microphone and headphones
4) Mackie Audio Interface, Onyx Artist 1X2 USB Audio Interface
Features:
24-bit/192kHz recording zero-latency
Bus-powered for easy mobile recording
Fast transfer speed
High-resolution
¼” TRS input
Review
The Onyx Series USB is the best budget audio interface delivering true studio-quality. This provides maximum headroom and ultra-low noise. It is combined with high-resolution 24-bit/192kHz converters and premium Mackie analogue circuitry. It captures the best performance and experience media with pristine fidelity at home and anywhere you go. Onyx mic pre plus features a ¼” input with a Hi-Z switch for quick and easy recordings. This model offers zero-latency direct monitoring along with a headphone output, L/R line-output and +48v phantom power. Both interfaces do exactly as claimed. The extra features of Producer 2.2 make it worth the extra outlay.
Pros
No drivers are needed
Supports up to 192kHz
Affordable
Built on solidity
Cons
The gain range occurs in the last few degrees of gain pot travel
5) Tascam US-2x2HR 2 Mic 2IN/2OUT High Resolution
Features:
2-in/2-out USB audio interface
Crisp & Clear sound quality
Ultra-HDDA Mic
Equipped with MIDI IN/OUT
Compatible with iPad and other iOS devices
OBS support
Review
Tascam US-2x2HR is a series of high-resolution USB audio. With the best budget audio interface it provides two switchable inputs and two balanced line outputs. Along with MIDI to your Windows or Mac computer or your iPhone or iPad. This interface is ideal for music creation and home recording with high demands on simple operation. Equipped loopback function and OBS support make this interface applicable for podcasts and live streams. Supports up to 24-bit/192 kHz audio formats. It is designed to withstand long hours for hard use.
Pros
Rugged build quality
All-metal casing
Open, warm preamps
A/D signal conversion
Cons
US-4×4 phantom power is not switchable in pairs
6) Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface
Features:
High-performance converters
Records up to 24-bit/ 192kHz
Super-low latency for best performances
2 upgraded mic preamps
Direct Monitor circuit
Headphone output with independent level control
Quickstart tool
Review
Scarlett 2i2 3rd generation makes your musical vision totally hassle-free. This allows simultaneous recording and playback of up to two channels. Independently controllable headphone and monitor outputs. This device is equipped with high-performance 24-bit/192kHz AD-DA converters and produces professional sound quality throughout the usage. This interface offers millions of high-quality, royalty-free one-shots, loops, and presets from your favorite sound designers, and artists. Along with its exceptionally designed and rock-solid build quality. Scarlett is as of now loved by guitarists, singer-songwriters, electronic musicians, and engineers with reliable recording solutions.
Pros
Excellent preamps
High-quality recordings
It won’t hog your CPU
Direct monitoring via your headphones or speakers
Cons
No MIDI outputs or inputs
7) M-Audio AIR 192|4 – 2-In/2-Out USB Audio Interface
Features:
Premium component selection
Hi-Speed USB
Transparent crystal preamps
Dedicated 1/4″ Instrument Input
Ultra-pristine A/D converters
Headphone out with independent level control
24-bit/192kHz resolution for professional recording
Review
M-Audio AIR creates flawless 24-bit/192kHz studio-quality recordings with an intuitive and easy-to-use audio interface. It is enabled to record up to 2 channels at once and this is specially designed to give out the most accurate representation of a guitar or bass plugged directly into the interface. This amazing interface and MIDI recording software inspire any artist, musician or singer to create, record and share their ideas with the world at any time. This edition features Unlimited Busses, Elastic Time and Elastic Pitch, Offline Bounce, and 1 GB of free cloud storage space for association and accesses your projects from anywhere via the internet.
Pros
Rugged metal chassis
Large central volume control
VU LED meters
USB/Direct knob for zero-latency monitoring
Cons
Not compatible with FL studio or Pro tools
8) M-Audio AIR 192|8 – 2-In 4-Out USB Audio
Features:
Premium component selection
24-bit/192kHz resolution
Professional recording
Monitoring to your Mac/ PC
USB-C circuitry for the fastest connection
Class-leading round trip latency
Pristine studio-grade capture
Transparent crystal preamps
Review
The M audio Air 192 injects flawless channels of 24-bit/192kHz audio and there are two low-noise Crystal preamps/TRS inputs with +62dB of gain for driving studio condenser mics to stage dynamics, along with two hi-Z inputs for direct-routing keys and guitars into the song or score. There is also a 1/8″ MIDI in and out to interface controllers and drum pads with ITB virtual instrument libraries. The low-noise Crystal preamps build a solid foundation for any style recording. However, you must take advantage of the included AIR virtual instrument suites when you pair your MIDI-equipped controller with the M-Audio AIR192|8.
Pros
Huge quality in production
Perfect for small recording sessions
Perfect choice for the advanced beginner
Great value for the price
Cons
Unexisting driver
9) Steinberg UR22C 2×2 USB 3.0 Audio Interface
Features:
32-bit/192 kHz audio resolution
Super speed USB 3.1
USB-C for fast and reliable Connectivity
D-PRE mic preamps
Zero-latency monitoring
Compatible with all major audio software
Review
Steinberg’s UR22C showcases outstanding build quality and high-definition audio along with advanced connectivity that makes it the perfect interface for the masses. The UR22C has flexible I/O options, switchable phantom power, MIDI I/O, and TRS main outputs that provide a pro-level recording experience with no matter what gear is used. It captures the subtlest nuance of every sound with fast and reliable connectivity for maximum peace of mind and It is one of the industry-leading converters inclusive of latency-free monitoring with DSP effects.
Pros
Supports ASIO, core audio, or WDM
Loopback function for streaming
USB 3.0 bus-powered
USB Type-C bus-powered
Cons
External USB 5 V AC adaptor (not included)
10) Audient iD4 USB 2-in/2-out High Performance Audio Interface
Features:
A-D/D-A convertors
2 x Multi-Segment LED Meter
2 Inputs / 2 Outputs at 96 kHz
1 x USB Type-B (USB 2.0)
High-Performance Audio Interface
Headphone Outputs
Review
Audient iD4 takes your recordings to the next level in every way. It delivers professional audio performance in a compact and modern desktop package. The iD4 can be powered through USB from your Mac or Windows computer, hence no external power supply is needed. This interface Compatible is with all major audio software and plug-ins, the iD4 comes to wrap with a collection of professional software, giving everything you need to start recording.
Pros
Audio Loop-back
All-metal housing
Provides a healthy level of output
Metal knobs without wiggle
Cons
Using iOS devices requires a camera adaptor and a powered USB hub(both)
