Best Audio Interface For Music (2023)

The Best Audio Interface For Music & Buyer’s Guide

The excitement of creating music is unparalleled, as you pour your soul into your art while plugging in your guitar or sitting at your keyboard.

However, to capture the true essence of your creativity, it is essential to have the right tools, and in the world of home recording, few tools are as crucial as the audio interface.

The audio interface is the gateway that connects your instruments and microphones to your computer, enabling you to record and produce music with professional-grade quality. In this article, we will embark on a journey to explore the best audio interfaces for your home studio in 2023, unlocking the potential of your music and unleashing your true artistic vision.

Read More: The Best Audio Interface Under $500

Best audio interfaces: Our top picks

1. Universal Audio Apollo Twin

First on our list is the Universal Audio Apollo Twin X DUO. Universal Audio interfaces (and their plugins) are extremely popular. Many regard their plugins as some of the best emulations available today.

It used to be the case that you had to have a Universal Audio (UAD) interface to use any of the UAD plugins. However, UAD changed that recently. So you can now purchase the UAD plugins and run them off of your computer without having a UAD interface.

That said, it is still advantageous to have a UAD interface (if you plan on using UAD plugins ). Why? Because can save CPU power by running the UAD plugin off of the UAD interface (as opposed to running it off of your computer). The only way to do that is to use a UAD interface.

This audio interface boasts two unison-enabled preamps, which means you can accurately emulate the sound of classic preamps and channel strips. So while you can get a clean sound, you can also enable the preamp to sound like you were recording through a Neve, API, Manley mic-pre.

You can also combine your UAD interface with up to three UAD interaces (total of 142 channels) so you can add more channels if/when you need them.

Here are some of its main features:

1. Two Inputs and Four Outputs: The Apollo Twin X features two high-performance mic/line preamps and four line outputs. This allows you to connect microphones, instruments, and other audio gear, as well as monitors and headphones.
   
2. Realtime UAD Processing: The Apollo Twin X features onboard UAD-2 DUO or QUAD Core processing, which allows you to run UAD plugins in realtime with near-zero latency. This provides access to high-quality analog emulations of classic compressors, EQs, and other vintage studio gear.
   
3. Unison Technology: The Apollo Twin X features Unison technology, which allows you to emulate the impedance, gain staging, and circuitry of classic analog preamps and guitar amps. This provides authentic analog sound and feel when recording through the interface.
   
4. Thunderbolt 3 Connectivity: The Apollo Twin X connects to your computer via Thunderbolt 3, which provides fast and reliable data transfer and power.
   
5. Console Software: The Apollo Twin X comes with the Console software, which provides a powerful and flexible mixer and control panel for your audio interface. This allows you to customize routing, monitor levels, and other settings, as well as access built-in DSP effects and UAD plugins.
   
6. Compatibility: The Apollo Twin X is compatible with Mac and Windows computers, and it can be used with a variety of audio software, including Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, Pro Tools, and Cubase.

Overall, the Universal Audio Apollo Twin X is a high-performance audio interface that offers advanced features and exceptional sound quality.

NOTE: If you plan on using an external microphone preamp, be aware that you cannot completely bypass the Apollo Twin’s preamps. In order to completely bypass them, you need to purchase a rack unit (e.g., like the X6)

2. Audient iD14 MKII

Next up is the Audient iD14 MKII. This audio interface is known for its pristine sound quality and intuitive design. With two world-class Audient console mic preamps and Burr-Brown converters, your recordings will sound clear and vibrant. Its key features include:

1. High-quality AD/DA conversion: The iD14 MKII features Audient’s renowned Class-A mic preamps and high-performance AD/DA converters, which deliver exceptional audio quality and clarity.
   
2. Two inputs and four outputs: The iD14 MKII has two combo mic/line inputs with switchable phantom power, as well as four balanced line outputs. It also has a dedicated headphone output with independent level control.
   
3. ScrollControl: The iD14 MKII features Audient’s ScrollControl technology, which allows you to use the volume knob to control DAW parameters such as panning, scrolling, and zooming.
   
4. Monitor Mix: The iD14 MKII has a built-in monitor mix feature that allows you to blend the input signals with DAW playback in real-time, making it easy to monitor and record without latency.
   
5. Expandable inputs: The iD14 MKII can be expanded with the addition of an Audient ASP880 or ASP800 mic preamp, allowing you to add up to eight additional inputs to your setup.
   
6. Compatibility: The iD14 MKII is compatible with both Mac and Windows computers, as well as iOS devices, and comes with a range of software and plugins including ARC, Loopcloud, and a range of free plugins from Waldorf and Two Notes.

Overall, the Audient iD14 MKII is a versatile and high-quality audio interface that is ideal for professional recording applications. Its combination of high-quality preamps, AD/DA conversion, and advanced features make it an excellent choice for musicians, producers, and engineers who demand the best in audio quality and performance.

3. RME Babyface Pro FS

The RME Babyface Pro FS is another fantastic sounding audio interface.

RME has been around for decades and has always been in the upper echelon of audio manufacturers. This interface is being used by musician/producers such as DiViNCi and Miami producer Dwayne (Supa Dups) Chin-Quee (Sean Paul, Rihanna, John Legend, Eminem, Bruno Mars, Drake).

The Babyface pro is a USB desktop audio interface, that boast an impressive 24 channel/192khz.

The Babyface’s converters are extremely clean and transparent. So you should expect an extremely clean sound with no added coloration. However, if you are used to more colored sounding interfaces, this could take some getting used to.

Here are some of its main features:

1. Two Inputs and Four Outputs: The Babyface Pro FS features two analog inputs (XLR/TRS combo jacks) and four analog outputs (two XLR and two 1/4-inch TRS). This allows you to connect microphones, instruments, and other audio gear, as well as monitors and headphones.
   
2. High-Quality Preamps: The Babyface Pro FS uses RME’s renowned preamp technology, which provides ultra-low noise and distortion, high gain, and transparent sound reproduction.
   
3. Digital Connectivity: The Babyface Pro FS also includes digital connectivity options, such as ADAT, S/PDIF, and MIDI, which allow you to connect to digital devices and expand your I/O options.
   
4. Low-Latency Performance: The Babyface Pro FS features a powerful DSP that provides ultra-low latency performance, even when using multiple channels and running effects and plugins.
   
5. TotalMix FX: The Babyface Pro FS comes with RME’s TotalMix FX software, which provides comprehensive mixing, routing, and monitoring capabilities, with a user-friendly interface.
   
6. USB-C Connectivity: The Babyface Pro FS connects to your computer via USB-C, which provides fast and reliable data transfer and power.
   
7. Compatibility: The Babyface Pro FS is compatible with Mac and Windows computers, as well as iOS devices, and it can be used with a wide range of audio software, including Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, Pro Tools, and Cubase.

RME Babyface Pro FS is a top-of-the-line audio interface that offers exceptional sound quality, advanced features, and reliable performance, making it an ideal choice for professional audio engineers, musicians, and producers.

If you really want to improve the recording quality of your music, you can’t go wrong with the Babyface Pro FS.

4. Focusrite Scarlett 8i6

Also on this list we have the Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 3rd Gen. This audio interface is a popular choice for home studio recording, thanks to its eight inputs and six outputs.

Here are some of its main features:

1. Eight Inputs and Six Outputs: The Scarlett 8i6 features four XLR/TRS combo inputs, two line inputs, and four line outputs (two balanced 1/4-inch TRS and two RCA), which allow you to connect microphones, instruments, and other audio gear, as well as monitors and headphones.
   
2. High-Quality Preamps: The Scarlett 8i6 uses Focusrite’s renowned preamp technology, which provides transparent and accurate sound reproduction, with low noise and distortion.
   
3. Built-in DSP: The Scarlett 8i6 features a powerful DSP (digital signal processor) that allows you to run plugins and effects without putting a strain on your computer’s CPU. This also allows for low-latency monitoring, which is essential for recording and mixing.
   
4. USB Connectivity: The Scarlett 8i6 connects to your computer via USB, which provides fast and reliable data transfer and power.
   
5. Software Included: The Scarlett 8i6 comes with a range of software, including Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools First, and Focusrite’s Red 2 and Red 3 Plug-in Suite, which provide additional EQ, compression, and reverb effects.
   
6. Compatibility: The Scarlett 8i6 is compatible with Mac and Windows computers, as well as iOS devices, and it can be used with a variety of audio software, including Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, Pro Tools, and Cubase.
   
7. Easy-to-Use Controls: The Scarlett 8i6 has large, tactile knobs and switches that allow you to adjust input levels, headphone volume, and other settings with ease. It also has a clear LED metering system that displays signal levels for each input and output.

With high-quality preamps and converters, your recordings will sound clean and accurate. The Scarlett 8i6 3rd Gen also comes with a wide range of software and plug-ins, including Ableton Live Lite and the Focusrite Red 2 and Red 3 Plug-In Suite.

Overall, the Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 is a versatile and reliable audio interface that offers advanced features, high-quality sound, and easy-to-use controls, making it a great choice for musicians, producers, and engineers who need a flexible and powerful solution for recording and mixing.

5. Focusrite Scarlett Solo–Budget Pick

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo, a true gem in the world of audio interfaces. This beauty may be small in size, but it is mighty in its capabilities.

With a high-quality mic preamp and AD/DA converter, the Scarlett Solo captures the essence of your music, delivering stunning sound quality that will leave you in awe.

Its sleek and compact design is only the beginning of its amazing features. The Focusrite Scarlett Solo Studio 3rd Gen is an all-in-one audio interface bundle that includes everything you need to start recording high-quality audio at home. Here are some of its main features:

1. High-Quality Preamp: The Scarlett Solo features Focusrite’s high-performance preamp, which provides a clean and transparent signal with low noise and distortion.
   
2. One Input and Two Outputs: The Scarlett Solo has one XLR/TRS combo input, which can be used for microphones or instruments, and two 1/4-inch TRS outputs for monitors or headphones.
   
3. 24-bit/192kHz Conversion: The Scarlett Solo uses high-quality A/D and D/A converters, which allow for recording and playback at up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution, ensuring accurate and detailed sound reproduction.
   
4. Air Mode: The Scarlett Solo includes a unique “Air” mode, which adds brightness and clarity to vocals and acoustic instruments, enhancing their presence in the mix.
   
5. Complete Recording Bundle: The Scarlett Solo Studio bundle includes a large-diaphragm condenser microphone, a set of closed-back headphones, and all necessary cables and software, so you can start recording right away.
   
6. Compatibility: The Scarlett Solo is compatible with Mac and Windows computers, as well as iOS devices, and it can be used with a variety of audio software, including Ableton Live, Pro Tools, and Logic Pro X.

With the Scarlett Solo, you can expect your music to sound crystal clear, as every note and melody is captured with precision and clarity.

Overall, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo Studio 3rd Gen is a versatile and affordable audio interface bundle that provides high-quality sound, user-friendly features, and a complete recording solution for home studios, podcasters, and musicians.

Whether you’re a singer-songwriter or a seasoned musician, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo is a must-have for any home studio, offering an experience that will leave you inspired and energized.

6. Solid State Logic SSL2

The Solid State Logic SSL2 USB Audio Interface is a true gem, a shining example of audio engineering at its finest.

This audio interface is designed to bring out the best in your music, delivering stunningly clear and accurate sound that is simply unmatched. With two pristine mic preamps and SSL’s legendary 4K analog enhancement, the SSL2 will give your recordings that classic SSL sound that musicians have come to know and love.

Here are some of its key features:

1. 2-In/4-Out Interface: The SSL2+ provides two pristine microphone/line inputs with SSL-designed analog microphone preamps, and four line outputs. This configuration allows you to connect microphones, instruments, and other audio sources, as well as studio monitors and headphones.
   
2. Legacy 4K Analog Enhancement: The SSL2+ features the Legacy 4K button, which adds classic SSL analog color and character to your recordings. With a single button press, you can add warmth and saturation inspired by the legendary SSL 4000 Series consoles, enhancing your sound.
   
3. High-Quality Monitoring: The interface includes high-quality headphone output with independent monitor mix control, allowing you to create personalized monitoring mixes without latency. This is essential for tracking and mixing, ensuring accurate monitoring while recording.
   
4. USB-C Connectivity: The SSL2+ connects to your computer via USB-C, providing fast and reliable data transfer, as well as bus-powered operation, eliminating the need for an external power supply.
   
5. Professional-grade Conversion: The SSL2+ utilizes SSL’s legendary SuperAnalogueTM audio conversion technology, ensuring pristine audio quality and transparent signal reproduction with a wide dynamic range.
   
6. Easy-to-Use Workflow: The interface features intuitive controls, including large, ergonomic knobs and a high-resolution LED metering, enabling precise control over your recording levels. The hardware controls are designed for quick and easy operation, streamlining your workflow.
   
7. Software Bundle: The SSL2+ includes a comprehensive software bundle that includes SSL Production Pack software (featuring SSL Native plug-ins), additional plug-ins, and a free subscription to SSL’s “Duende Native Essentials” plug-ins.

In summary, the SSL2 is a professional USB audio interface that combines SSL’s analog heritage with modern technology.

If you’re looking for the best audio interface for your home studio at an affordable price, look no further than the Solid State Logic SSL2.

7. Presonus Studio

The PreSonus Studio 24c USB-C Audio Interface is a true gem in the world of home recording.

With its high-quality XMAX-L mic preamp and AD/DA converters, this audio interface delivers stunningly clear and detailed sound that will make your recordings come to life.

Its compact and sturdy design make it easy to take with you on the go, while its versatile input/output options give you the flexibility to record a variety of instruments and vocals.

The Studio 24c also comes with PreSonus’ award-winning Studio One Artist DAW software, allowing you to record, mix, and master your music with ease. With its intuitive controls and powerful features, the Studio 24c is a must-have for any home studio musician who wants to take their recordings to the next level.

For the Serious Home Studios

8. Best Compact interface–Apogee Duet 3

The Apogee Duet 3 is a true masterpiece of audio engineering. This audio interface is a work of art, designed to bring out the best in your music.

Apogee’s products have proven their worth over time. With a legacy spanning over 38 years, the company has garnered an impressive track record, including 19 TEC awards, which stand as the highest accolade in the professional audio industry. Additionally, Apogee has received numerous Editor’s Choice Awards from esteemed publications such as Sound on Sound, EQ Magazine, Electronic Musician, PC Magazine, and Stereo Sound’s prestigious ‘Product of the Year’ recognition, among numerous others.

In 2007, Apogee was chosen by Apple to create an audio interface for its Logic Pro X users. This was the catalyst for the one of the best audio interfaces of all time-the Duet.

Since that time, the Duet has gave garnered a host of endorsers, including Meghan Trainor, Thaddeus Dixion (Arianna Grande), Eva Gardner (Bassist for P!nk, Cher, Gwen Stefani, Moby, Tim Burgess).

Now, in its third iteration, the Duet 3 gives users professional audio recording sound with onboard DSP, featuring a host of plugins created by legendary mixing engineer, Bob Clearmountain.

One thing I love about the Apogee Duet is the slight coloration that it adds to the sound. It really adds a nice vibe to my recordings.

Its sleek and elegant design is just the beginning, as the Duet 3 is packed with features that make it one of the best audio interfaces for your home studio in 2023.

Some of its main features include:

• Two Inputs and Four Outputs: The Duet 3 features two inputs (XLR/TRS combo jacks) and four outputs (two XLR and two 1/4-inch TRS). This allows you to connect microphones, instruments, and other audio gear, as well as monitors and headphones.
  
• High-Quality Preamps: The Duet 3 uses Apogee’s advanced preamp technology, which provides transparent and accurate sound reproduction, with low noise and distortion. This results in 65db of pre-amp gain.
  
• Built-in DSP: The Duet 3 features a powerful DSP (digital signal processor) that allows you to run plugins and effects without putting a strain on your computer’s CPU. This also allows for low-latency monitoring, which is essential for recording and mixing.
  
• USB-C Connectivity: The Duet 3 connects to your computer via USB-C, which provides fast and reliable data transfer and power.
  
• Apogee Control Software: The Duet 3 also comes with the Apogee Control software, which allows for easy control over your recording sessions.
  
• Compatibility: The Duet 3 is compatible with Mac and Windows computers, as well as iOS devices, and it can be used with a variety of audio software, including Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, Pro Tools, and GarageBand.

In comparison with the Duet 2, the Duet 3’s A/D conversion is 5db better than the Duet 2. This allows the Duet 3 to capture more detail when recording. I own both models, and I defiantly hear a significant difference between the two interfaces.

Overall, the Apogee Duet 3 is a versatile and high-quality audio interface that offers excellent sound quality, advanced features, and easy-to-use controls, making it a great choice for professional and home recording studios.

Whether you’re a professional musician or a home studio enthusiast, the Apogee Duet 3 is a must-have for anyone looking to create music that truly resonates with the soul.

Click here: For a full review of the Apogee Duet 3

9. Apogee Symphony Desktop –Premium Choice

The Symphony desktop is a powerful audio interface.

The Apogee Symphony Desktop is a high-quality audio interface designed for professional recording studios and musicians. Here are some of its main features:

1. Desktop Form Factor: The Symphony Desktop has a compact desktop form factor, making it easy to integrate into your recording setup.
   
2. High-Quality Conversion: The Symphony Desktop uses Apogee’s latest AD/DA conversion technology, which provides transparent and accurate sound reproduction, with high dynamic range and low distortion.
   
3. Flexible I/O: The Symphony Desktop features two XLR/TRS combo inputs, two headphone outputs, and a variety of digital inputs and outputs, including ADAT, S/PDIF, and USB.
   
4. Built-in DSP: The Symphony Desktop features a powerful DSP (digital signal processor) that allows you to run plugins and effects without putting a strain on your computer’s CPU. This also allows for low-latency monitoring, which is essential for recording and mixing.
   
5. Touchscreen Display: The Symphony Desktop has a full-color touchscreen display that allows you to control various settings, such as input levels, phantom power, and headphone volume, as well as access menus and preferences.
   
6. Compatibility: The Symphony Desktop is compatible with Mac and Windows computers, as well as iOS devices, and it can be used with a variety of audio software, including Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, Pro Tools, and GarageBand.
   
7. Symphony Control: The Symphony Desktop comes with Apogee’s Symphony Control software, which provides advanced routing and monitoring options, as well as the ability to control and configure the interface’s various settings.

Overall, the Apogee Symphony Desktop is a powerful and versatile audio interface that offers excellent sound quality, advanced features, and easy-to-use controls, making it a great choice for professional recording studios and musicians.

Read More: Apogee Symphony Desktop Full Review and Specs

10. Antelope Audio Zen Go

The Antelope Audio Zen Go Synergy Core is a portable audio interface that offers high-quality sound and advanced features for recording and mixing. Here are some of its main features:

1. Two Inputs and Four Outputs: The Zen Go Synergy Core features two XLR/TRS combo inputs and four line outputs (two 1/4-inch TRS and two stereo RCA), which allow you to connect microphones, instruments, and other audio gear, as well as monitors and headphones.
   
2. High-Quality Preamps: The Zen Go Synergy Core uses Antelope Audio’s Discrete Ultra-Linear preamps, which provide transparent and accurate sound reproduction, with low noise and distortion.
   
3. Built-in DSP: The Zen Go Synergy Core features a powerful DSP (digital signal processor) that allows you to run Antelope Audio’s Synergy Core effects without putting a strain on your computer’s CPU. This also allows for low-latency monitoring, which is essential for recording and mixing.
   
4. USB-C Connectivity: The Zen Go Synergy Core connects to your computer or mobile device via USB-C, which provides fast and reliable data transfer and power.
   
5. Touchscreen Display: The Zen Go Synergy Core has a full-color touchscreen display that allows you to control various settings, such as input levels, phantom power, and headphone volume, as well as access menus and preferences.
   
6. Compatibility: The Zen Go Synergy Core is compatible with Mac, Windows, and iOS devices, and it can be used with a variety of audio software, including Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, Pro Tools, and Cubase.
   
7. Synergy Core Effects: The Zen Go Synergy Core comes with a range of high-quality Synergy Core effects, including EQs, compressors, reverbs, and guitar amps, which can be used in real-time during recording and mixing.

Overall, the Antelope Audio Zen Go Synergy Core is a powerful and versatile audio interface that offers advanced features, high-quality sound, and easy-to-use controls, making it a great choice for musicians, producers, and engineers who need a portable and reliable solution for recording and mixing.

Antelope Audio Zen Q Synergy Core

The Antelope Audio Zen Q Synergy Core is a professional-grade audio interface that features advanced technology and versatile connectivity options. Here are some of its main features:

1. Synergy Core Processing: The Zen Q Synergy Core features Antelope Audio’s proprietary Synergy Core processing technology, which allows you to run a wide range of high-quality audio effects and plugins in real-time, without overloading your computer’s CPU.
   
2. High-Quality Conversion: The Zen Q Synergy Core uses top-of-the-line AD/DA converters and clocking technology to provide accurate and transparent sound reproduction, with a dynamic range of 130 dB and a sample rate of up to 192 kHz.
   
3. Extensive Connectivity: The Zen Q Synergy Core features a comprehensive set of inputs and outputs, including four microphone preamps with switchable phantom power, two instrument inputs, eight line outputs, two headphone outputs, and digital I/O (ADAT, S/PDIF, and AES/EBU).
   
4. Easy-to-Use Controls: The Zen Q Synergy Core features a large touchscreen display and intuitive controls, allowing you to easily adjust input levels, monitor mixes, and access plugin settings and presets.
   
5. Software Integration: The Zen Q Synergy Core is compatible with a wide range of DAWs and audio software, and it comes with a suite of plugins and effects, including EQs, compressors, reverbs, and guitar amp simulations.
   
6. Portable Design: The Zen Q Synergy Core has a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to take with you on the go, and it can be powered via USB or an external power supply.

Overall, the Antelope Audio Zen Q Synergy Core is a powerful and versatile audio interface that offers high-quality sound, advanced processing capabilities, and easy-to-use controls, making it a great choice for professional recording studios and mobile setups.

Buyer’s Guide What you need to know About Buying an Audio Interface

Picking an audio interface comes down to a few important factors:

1. Knowing exactly what you plan to use the interface for.
2. Knowing what types of inputs your computer has that you will use to connect the interface to your computer (USB, thunderbolt, firewire?)
3. Knowing how many inputs/outputs you need?
4. Knowing what sound/quality/reputation of the audio converters the interface has
5. Price

Knowing what to look for can make all the difference when selecting an interface for music.

But fear not, for I shall guide you on this journey.

Knowing your purpose

Before considering an interface you need to get clear on what want to get out of it. Do you plan to only record your vocals with it or do you plan to record your entire band for example? Do you plan on connecting external preamps? If so, you need to know if the interface you choose can bypass its own internal preamps (on some it is not possible). Are you looking for a neutral sounding converter or do you want something with some color?

If you have specific questions, I’d recommend you ask several reputable sources including contacting the manufacturer directly. I’ve had sales people at my local music store give me the wrong information before (which led to me having to return an expensive interface because I could not bypass the interface’s preamps)

Computer Connectivity

There are several ways to connect an audio interface to a computer. The four most common types are USB 3.0, Thunderbolt, Firewire, and PCIe.

USB 3.0 is a universal standard and offers high-speed data transfer rates with plug-and-play functionality, making it a popular choice for most audio interfaces.

Thunderbolt offers faster transfer speeds than USB 3.0 and is often preferred by professional audio engineers for its low latency and high-bandwidth capabilities.

Firewire is another high-speed option that offers low latency and reliable data transfer, but it has become less popular over the years due to compatibility issues with newer computers.

Finally, PCIe connections are found in desktop computers and offer the fastest data transfer speeds, making them an ideal choice for high-end audio production.

The main differences between these four connection options lie in their speed, compatibility, and the type of computer they can be used with.

How Many Inputs/Outputs You Need

When considering an audio interface for your home studio, it is crucial to evaluate the number of inputs and outputs that you will require. The number of inputs and outputs needed will depend on the type of recording projects you plan on working on.

If you are a solo musician recording acoustic instruments and vocals, a two-channel interface will suffice. However, if you plan on recording a full band or multiple instruments simultaneously, you will need more inputs.

Additionally, the number of outputs will affect the routing capabilities of your interface. If you plan on sending audio to multiple destinations, such as a headphone mix, studio monitors, and external effects processors, you will need an interface with enough outputs to accommodate your needs.

It is important to carefully evaluate your recording requirements to ensure that you select an interface that can meet your needs now and in the future, while also staying within your budget.

Audio Converters

It’s also important to consider the quality and versatility of the audio converters. Audio converters are responsible for translating the analog signals from microphones and instruments into digital data that can be processed by your computer or digital audio workstation (DAW).

High-quality converters can greatly improve the clarity and detail of your recordings, while also reducing noise and distortion. Look for an interface with high-quality converters that can support a wide range of sample rates and bit depths, as this will allow you to capture the full range of frequencies and dynamics in your recordings.

Nowadays, modern technology has gotten to a place where most interfaces will give you a reliable sound, but that doesn’t mean that a $200 interface will sound as good as a $800 one.

You also want to get an understanding of the sound of the audio converters in your interface. Some interfaces, like the Apogee Duet, add some coloration to the sound. Other interfaces have a more transparent sound. For example, the RME Babyface is known for having a very neutral sound.

I thought I wanted a neutral sounding interface like the RME Babyface, but when I compared it to the Apogee Duet, I found that I preferred the Duet’s slight coloration to my recordings. Since then, I’ve been a devout Apogee Duet user–and recorded my most-recent album and Billboard Charting single on it!

Read More: Apogee Symphony Desktop Review and Specs

Price

Lastly, it is crucial to weigh the importance of price against the features and quality of the device. While a lower-priced interface may seem like a more attractive option, it is important to remember that lower prices may indicate lower quality components, resulting in subpar audio performance.

Conversely, a higher-priced interface may offer a range of advanced features that may not be necessary for your home studio setup, resulting in overspending on unnecessary features.

Therefore, it is essential to determine your specific needs and desired features for your home studio, and consider the price of the interface accordingly.

Ultimately, the ideal audio interface should provide the necessary features and quality within a reasonable price range for your budget, resulting in optimal audio performance for your home studio recordings.

Read More: Best Audio Interface Under $200

Do you need an audio interface?

If you want to achieve higher quality recordings and have more control over the sound, then an audio interface is highly recommended.

An audio interface allows you to connect multiple microphones and instruments, and provides high-quality preamps and converters to capture your sound accurately. It also allows you to adjust levels and settings before recording, resulting in a cleaner and more professional-sounding recording.

Ultimately, whether you need an audio interface or not depends on the level of quality and control you desire in your home recording setup.

What comes with the interface?

When you purchase an audio interface for your home studio, there are several items that come with it.

Firstly, you’ll find the audio interface unit itself, which is the heart of your home recording setup. Additionally, you’ll receive cables and connectors to help you connect your microphones, instruments, and speakers to your audio interface. Some audio interfaces may also come with a power supply, which is necessary to power the unit.

Drivers and software are also included to ensure that your audio interface communicates properly with your computer and recording software.

Lastly, most audio interfaces come with a user manual that provides valuable information on how to set up and operate the unit, making it easy for you to get started on your music production journey.

Several of you reading this have some DAWs. If not then consider how this interface is designed. Many audio interfaces can be purchased along with Lite DAWs – such as Reaper, Ableton Pro Tools, as well as VTS packs that cost more. I’ll find out the most common user interface later.