FOCUSRITE SCARLETT 2i2 (3RD GEN)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Product | Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) |
| Type | USB Audio Interface |
| Ideal For | Home Recording, Music Production, Podcasting, Streaming, Beginners, Solo Artists |
| Inputs | – 2 XLR/Line Combo Inputs (Mic/Instrument/Line level) – 2 Line Outputs (TRS) |
| Phantom Power | +48V Phantom Power (for condenser microphones) |
| Resolution | 24-bit / 192 kHz |
| Connectivity | USB 2.0 (Bus-powered, no external power supply needed) |
| Headphone Output | 1x Headphone output (1/4” TRS) with independent volume control |
| Direct Monitoring | Yes, with low-latency direct monitoring (Mix control between input and output) |
| Software Included | – Ableton Live Lite (DAW) – Focusrite Red Plug-in Suite – 3-month Splice Sounds subscription – Focusrite Control Software |
| Build | Rugged metal chassis, compact design suitable for portable setups |
| Latency | Low-latency performance, suitable for real-time monitoring and recording |
| Price Range | Affordable (budget-friendly, great for beginners and intermediate users) |
| Best For | – Home studios – Musicians, podcasters, and streamers – Entry-level producers looking for high-quality audio |
| Pros | – Compact and portable, ideal for mobile recording – 2 XLR/Line combo inputs for versatile use – High-quality preamps – 24-bit / 192 kHz resolution for clear, professional sound – USB-powered, easy setup without external power supply – Excellent software bundle (DAW and plugins) |
| Cons | – Limited I/O (only 2 inputs and 2 outputs, not suitable for larger setups) – No MIDI I/O support – No DSP processing for real-time effects |
| Additional Features | – Air Mode: Adds an analog-style brightness to vocals and acoustic instruments, emulating classic Focusrite preamps – Compact design for easy portability and desktop setups – Focusrite Control Software for configuring input/output routing |
| Dimensions | 6.3″ (W) x 1.8″ (H) x 4.8″ (D) (lightweight, compact design suitable for desktop use) |
Summary
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) is an affordable and compact USB audio interface, designed for home studios, musicians, and podcasters who need high-quality sound at an accessible price point. It offers 2 XLR/Line combo inputs, 24-bit/192 kHz resolution, and phantom power for condenser microphones, making it ideal for recording vocals and instruments. The interface is USB-powered, eliminating the need for an external power supply, and offers low-latency direct monitoring for real-time performance.
The Air Mode feature adds an analog-style brightness to your recordings, and the included Focusrite Red Plug-in Suite allows for additional sound shaping and mixing tools. Its affordable price and solid build quality make it an excellent choice for beginners or intermediate users who want professional-quality recordings in a portable format.
While the Scarlett 2i2 is limited to 2 inputs and 2 outputs and lacks MIDI I/O or DSP processing, it provides a high-quality, budget-friendly solution for solo creators or small home studio setups. It’s a great choice for streaming, podcasting, and music production when you need a straightforward interface with excellent sound quality and reliable performance.
UNIVERSAL AUDIO APOLLO
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Product | Universal Audio Apollo Twin X Solo |
| Type | Thunderbolt 3 USB Audio Interface |
| Ideal For | Professional Recording, Music Production, Mixing, Mastering, Home Studios, Podcasters, Streamers |
| Inputs | – 1 XLR Microphone Input (with +48V Phantom Power) – 1 Hi-Z Instrument Input (for guitars, basses) – 2 Line Outputs (TRS) |
| Resolution | 24-bit / 192 kHz |
| Connectivity | Thunderbolt 3 (for Mac or Windows with Thunderbolt 3 support) |
| Headphone Output | 1x High-power headphone output (1/4” TRS) with independent volume control |
| Direct Monitoring | Yes, with hardware monitoring and unison preamp technology for real-time tracking and recording |
| Software Included | – LUNA Recording System (free DAW software) – Universal Audio’s Analog Classics Bundle (with preamp, EQ, and compressor plug-ins) – Ableton Live Lite – **Pro Tools |
| Build | High-quality metal chassis, sleek, compact design suitable for desktop and mobile use |
| Latency | Ultra-low latency with Unison preamp technology and real-time tracking |
| Price Range | Premium (higher-end interface aimed at professionals, offering premium sound quality and features) |
| Best For | – Professional musicians – Producers and engineers – Streamers and podcasters seeking high-end audio quality – Home studio owners looking for top-tier audio |
| Pros | – Stellar sound quality with Unison preamp technology – 24-bit / 192 kHz resolution for pristine audio – Extremely low latency for real-time recording – Built-in analog emulations for preamps and effects – Compact and sleek design with Thunderbolt 3 connectivity – Exceptional software bundle, including LUNA DAW and Universal Audio plugins |
| Cons | – Thunderbolt 3 only (requires compatible hardware) – Limited to 2 inputs and 2 outputs (not ideal for large recording setups) – Higher price point may not be suitable for entry-level users |
| Additional Features | – Unison preamp technology emulates classic analog preamps for authentic sound – LUNA Recording System for seamless integration with hardware and software – Ideal for musicians, producers, and engineers who need professional-grade performance in a compact interface – Onboard DSP (Digital Signal Processing) for running UAD plug-ins without taxing your computer’s CPU |
| Dimensions | 7.75″ (W) x 5.5″ (D) x 1.75″ (H) (compact and portable, ideal for desktop setups) |
Summary
The Universal Audio Apollo Twin X Solo is a premium, Thunderbolt 3 USB audio interface designed for high-end audio performance. It offers 24-bit/192 kHz resolution, and incorporates Unison preamp technology, which allows for real-time analog emulation of iconic preamp hardware for a professional sound. The interface includes 1 XLR microphone input and 1 Hi-Z instrument input, making it perfect for solo artists, producers, and engineers working in small studios or on the go.
With Thunderbolt 3 connectivity, the Apollo Twin X Solo delivers exceptional low-latency performance, and it supports a comprehensive software bundle, including LUNA Recording System, which seamlessly integrates hardware with the digital environment. Its compact and durable design makes it a solid choice for professionals who demand top-tier sound quality, flexibility, and portability. However, its premium price tag and limited I/O might make it less suitable for beginners or users needing more channels for larger setups. Overall, the Apollo Twin X Solo is an excellent choice for those who prioritize professional-grade audio and want to harness the power of UAD plugins directly through the interface’s onboard DSP.
AUDIENT iD4
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Product | Audient iD4 MKII |
| Type | USB Audio Interface |
| Ideal For | Portable Recording, Music Production, Podcasting, Home Studios, Solo Creators, Streamers |
| Inputs | – 1 XLR Microphone Input (with +48V Phantom Power) – 1 Instrument Input (Hi-Z, for guitars, basses) |
| Resolution | 24-bit / 192 kHz |
| Connectivity | USB-C (USB 2.0 compatible) |
| Headphone Output | 1x High-power headphone output (1/4” TRS, with independent volume control) |
| Direct Monitoring | Yes, with zero-latency monitoring for real-time recording and playback |
| Software Included | – 1 Year Free Subscription to Loopcloud – Cubase LE (DAW) – Waveform OEM (DAW) |
| Build | Durable aluminum chassis with a compact and portable design |
| Latency | Ultra-low latency performance, perfect for real-time recording and monitoring |
| Price Range | Affordable (mid-range, ideal for solo musicians, podcasters, and small studios) |
| Best For | – Solo musicians – Podcasters – Home studios – Mobile recording and streaming setups |
| Pros | – Compact and portable, ideal for mobile recording – 24-bit / 192 kHz resolution for excellent sound quality – High-quality mic preamps for a professional sound – USB-C for fast and reliable data transfer – Low-latency direct monitoring – Simple, intuitive controls – Rugged aluminum build for durability |
| Cons | – Limited I/O (only 1 mic input and 1 instrument input) – No MIDI I/O (requires external devices for MIDI) |
| Additional Features | – ScrollControl: Use the iD4 MKII’s volume knob as a scroll wheel for controlling DAW parameters – Advanced mic preamp technology from Audient’s larger interfaces – Compact enough to be used on the go, with USB-C power |
| Dimensions | 4.3″ (W) x 1.5″ (H) x 3.0″ (D) (ultra-compact design for portability) |
Summary
The Audient iD4 MKII is a compact and portable USB audio interface designed for solo creators like musicians, podcasters, and streamers who need high-quality audio in a small form factor. It offers 24-bit/192 kHz resolution and professional-grade mic preamps, making it a great choice for anyone looking for pristine sound quality in a budget-friendly package. The interface includes an XLR mic input, a Hi-Z instrument input, and a high-power headphone output for monitoring. It also features ScrollControl, which turns the volume knob into a DAW control tool, adding even more convenience. While it’s limited to just one mic and one instrument input and lacks MIDI I/O, it excels in providing excellent audio performance for mobile setups, podcasting, and small studio environments. The Audient iD4 MKII is perfect for those who want portability, ease of use, and professional audio without a hefty price tag.
PreSonus
PreSonus Studio 1824c
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Product | PreSonus Studio 1824c |
| Type | USB Audio Interface |
| Ideal For | Professional Recording, Music Production, Home Studios, Live Sound, Podcasters, Multi-Input Setups |
| Inputs | – 8 XLR/Line Combo Inputs (Mic/Instrument/Line level) – 2 Instrument Inputs (Front panel, Hi-Z) – 2 Line Outputs (TRS) |
| Phantom Power | +48V Phantom Power (for condenser microphones) |
| Resolution | 24-bit / 192 kHz |
| Connectivity | USB-C (USB 2.0 compatible, but USB-C offers faster data transfer speeds) |
| Headphone Output | 2x Headphone outputs with independent volume controls |
| Direct Monitoring | Yes, with mix control to blend live inputs and playback with zero-latency |
| Software Included | – Studio One Artist (DAW) – Ableton Live Lite – PreSonus’ UC Surface and Capture for mobile control |
| Build | Rugged steel chassis with a professional, rackmountable design |
| MIDI I/O | Yes, 1x MIDI In and 1x MIDI Out for expanded MIDI connectivity |
| Latency | Ultra-low latency performance for real-time recording and monitoring |
| Price Range | Mid-range (affordable for its feature set and performance) |
| Best For | – Professional studios – Music producers – Large-scale podcasting – Multi-instrument recording setups |
| Pros | – 8 combo inputs with +48V phantom power for flexible mic/instrument recording – 24-bit / 192 kHz resolution for pristine audio – Dual headphone outputs with individual volume control – USB-C connectivity for fast data transfer – Rackmountable design, ideal for studio setups – Excellent value for the feature set |
| Cons | – Larger form factor, may not be as portable as smaller interfaces – No built-in DSP effects (may require external processors) |
| Additional Features | – PreSonus’ Studio Magic Plug-in Suite included (virtual instruments and effects) – Advanced routing options via UC Surface software – Direct recording to a laptop or desktop computer – Expandable via ADAT (up to 18 channels of audio) |
| Dimensions | 19″ (W) x 7.6″ (D) x 1.75″ (H) (rackmountable, 1U height) |
Summary
The PreSonus Studio 1824c is a high-performance USB audio interface offering 8 inputs (with XLR/Line combo connectors), 24-bit/192 kHz resolution, and an array of professional features. Ideal for music producers, podcasters, and home studios, it offers versatility for larger setups with a need for multiple microphones or instruments. The USB-C connection ensures fast and reliable data transfer, and the rackmountable design makes it a good choice for studio environments. Along with included software like Studio One Artist, UC Surface, and Capture for mobile control, it also comes with PreSonus’ Studio Magic plug-in suite, providing additional value for the price. While it lacks onboard DSP and is not the most compact option, the Studio 1824c offers great flexibility and sound quality for those looking for an expandable, multi-input interface.
BEHRINGER
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Product | Behringer UMC404HD |
| Type | USB Audio Interface |
| Ideal For | Home Recording, Music Production, Podcasting, Studio Work, Entry-Level Professional Use |
| Inputs | – 4 XLR/Line Combo Inputs (Mic/Instrument/Line level) – 4 Line Inputs (TRS) – 1 MIDI Input and Output |
| Phantom Power | +48V Phantom Power (for condenser microphones) |
| Resolution | 24-bit / 192 kHz |
| Connectivity | USB 2.0 (Bus powered via USB) |
| Headphone Output | 1x Headphone output (1/4″ TRS) with volume control |
| Direct Monitoring | Yes, with zero-latency monitoring (mix control between inputs and playback) |
| Software Included | – Tracktion DAW (for recording, mixing, and editing) – Behringer’s Audio Software Suite – Free Bundles (Pro Tools First, etc.) |
| Build | Solid, durable plastic construction, designed for desktop use and portability |
| MIDI I/O | Yes, 1x MIDI In, 1x MIDI Out for connecting MIDI controllers and devices |
| Latency | Low-latency performance for both recording and monitoring |
| Price Range | Affordable (budget-friendly with pro-level features) |
| Best For | – Home studios – Musicians, podcasters, and small bands – Budget-conscious creators looking for good quality and flexibility |
| Pros | – 4 XLR/Line combo inputs for versatile recording setups – 24-bit / 192 kHz resolution for high-quality audio – Includes MIDI I/O for broader connectivity – Low-latency monitoring – Affordable price for the feature set – Easy setup and user-friendly interface |
| Cons | – Build is plastic, not as rugged as some higher-end models – No built-in DSP or onboard effects processing – USB-powered, may not be ideal for very high-output setups requiring more power |
| Additional Features | – Zero-latency monitoring with Mix Control – Compatible with both Windows and macOS – Ideal for small to mid-level setups that require multiple inputs |
| Dimensions | Compact (fits easily on a desk or in a mobile rig) |
Summary
The Behringer UMC404HD is a highly affordable, 4-channel USB audio interface that delivers 24-bit/192 kHz resolution with professional-level features, making it ideal for home studios and budget-conscious musicians. It provides versatile I/O options, including 4 XLR/Line combo inputs, MIDI I/O, and zero-latency monitoring, giving users the flexibility to record microphones, instruments, and MIDI devices. Despite being an entry-level option, it offers solid sound quality and a comprehensive feature set at a very competitive price point. While its build quality is more plastic and it lacks onboard DSP or effects, the UMC404HD is a great choice for podcasters, musicians, and small studio setups that need more inputs without breaking the bank.
RME Babyface Pro FS
RME Babyface Pro FS
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Product | RME Babyface Pro FS |
| Type | Portable USB Audio Interface |
| Ideal For | Professional Audio Recording, Music Production, Podcasting, Live Sound, High-End Streaming |
| Inputs | – 2 XLR/Line Combo Inputs (Mic/Instrument/Line level) – 2 Line Inputs (TRS) – 2 Output Channels (TRS) |
| Phantom Power | +48V Phantom Power (for condenser microphones) |
| Resolution | 24-bit / 192 kHz (Highest sample rate available in this class of audio interfaces) |
| Connectivity | USB 2.0 (Bus powered via USB or external power supply) |
| Headphone Output | 1x High-power headphone output (1/4″ TRS) with adjustable gain |
| Direct Monitoring | Yes, with hardware monitoring with no latency (AutoSwitch for input/output switching) |
| Software Included | – TotalMix FX (Advanced routing and mixing software) – RME’s Hammerfall DSP Drivers |
| Build | Rugged, lightweight aluminum body, designed for portability |
| Touch Controls | Software control with TotalMix FX (no physical buttons on interface, but highly customizable routing) |
| Latency | Extremely low latency (Ultra-low round-trip latency for professional use) |
| Price Range | High-end (Professional-grade interface, higher price point than entry-level interfaces) |
| Best For | – Professional musicians – Studio recording – Live sound engineers – Streamers requiring high-end audio quality |
| Pros | – 24-bit / 192 kHz resolution for top-notch audio quality – Extremely low latency for real-time monitoring – Versatile I/O options for different setups – TotalMix FX provides advanced routing and mixing features – Portable and durable, ideal for mobile recording and live sound |
| Cons | – Higher price point, may be overkill for beginners or hobbyists – No built-in DSP effects or preamp enhancements (external hardware may be needed) |
| Additional Features | – Advanced AD/DA conversion with RME’s renowned quality – Compatible with Windows, macOS, and iOS devices (requires USB Camera Adapter for iOS) |
| Dimensions | Compact and lightweight (fits easily into mobile rigs and tight spaces) |
Summary
The RME Babyface Pro FS is a high-end portable USB audio interface that excels in audio fidelity and latency performance, making it an ideal choice for professional musicians, audio engineers, and high-end streamers. With 24-bit/192kHz resolution and RME’s renowned TotalMix FX software, it offers an incredibly flexible and precise audio routing and mixing environment. Its extremely low latency and rugged build quality make it perfect for studio recording, live performances, or mobile audio work. While it comes at a higher price point, the Babyface Pro FS is well-suited for professionals who demand top-tier audio quality and functionality in a portable form factor.
WAVE XLR
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Product | Elgato Wave XLR |
| Type | XLR USB Audio Interface |
| Ideal For | Streaming, Podcasting, Home Recording, Content Creation |
| Inputs | – 1 XLR Microphone Input (for dynamic or condenser mics) |
| Phantom Power | +48V Phantom Power (for condenser microphones) |
| Resolution | 24-bit / 96 kHz |
| Connectivity | USB-C connection for fast, reliable digital audio transfer |
| Headphone Output | 1/4” headphone jack with volume control |
| Direct Monitoring | Yes, zero-latency monitoring with Mix Control for blending audio inputs and outputs |
| Software Included | – Wave Link Software (for mixing and routing audio signals) – Elgato’s Streaming Software Suite |
| Build | Rugged aluminum body with a compact design |
| Touch Controls | Capacitive touch buttons for mic gain, mute, and headphone volume |
| Latency | Low-latency audio with zero-latency monitoring |
| Mute Function | One-touch capacitive mute button for quick control during streams and recordings |
| Price Range | Mid-range (priced higher than entry-level interfaces but provides premium features) |
| Best For | – Streamers – Podcasters – Content creators requiring high-quality audio |
| Pros | – Excellent sound quality with 24-bit / 96 kHz resolution – Premium build quality – Easy setup with intuitive software – Versatile software for mixing and routing |
| Cons | – No instrument input (only XLR mic input) – USB-C only (requires compatible ports) |
| Additional Features | – Clipguard technology to prevent audio distortion from loud sounds – Highly customizable audio routing with Wave Link |
| Dimensions | Compact and portable design ideal for desk setups |
Summary
The Elgato Wave XLR is a feature-packed USB audio interface specifically designed for content creators, streamers, and podcasters who need high-quality audio. It offers robust features like 24-bit/96kHz resolution, phantom power, and zero-latency monitoring, combined with Elgato’s user-friendly Wave Link software for flexible audio mixing and routing. While it’s priced higher than some entry-level models, its premium features, build quality, and specialized software make it a solid choice for those seeking a polished audio experience in a compact package.
M-AUDIO M-TRACK SOLO
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Product | M-Audio M-Track Solo |
| Type | USB Audio Interface |
| Ideal For | Recording, Streaming, Podcasting, Music Production |
| Inputs | – 1 XLR Microphone Input – 1 Line Input (for instruments, keyboards, etc.) – 1 DI Input (for guitars, basses) |
| Phantom Power | +48V Phantom Power (for condenser microphones) |
| Resolution | 48 kHz / 16-bit |
| Headphone Output | 1/4” headphone jack with independent volume control |
| Direct Monitoring | Yes, zero-latency monitoring |
| Software Included | – Pro Tools |
| USB Powered | Yes, powered via USB (no external adapter needed) |
| Build | Compact and portable |
| Latency | Low-latency monitoring and recording |
| Price Range | Budget-friendly (affordable for beginners and casual users) |
| Best For | – Solo podcasters – Streamers – Home recording musicians and producers |
| Pros | – Affordable and portable – Easy-to-use – Includes essential software – Compact design |
| Cons | – Limited inputs (only 1 mic input, 1 instrument input) – 16-bit / 48 kHz may not meet professional standards |
| Additional Features | – 1/4” headphone jack – Direct monitoring button – Simple, intuitive controls |