Several expansion options are also available via Optical I/O. The iD44 was designed to grow with your studio, with additional inputs available should you choose to bring in more input options like a dedicated 8-channel preamp such as the Focusrite Octopre and other similar units. We're big fans of the Universal Audio Apollo Twin X here at MusicRadar, and this super interface has some incredibly powerful features that will offer a serious upgrade to anyone’s home recording experience. It comes in two formats, Duo and Quad which are named for the amount of DSP processing chips they possess.

Overall, the 16A is a great value. It ditches some of the features you find in units like the Fireface, but doesn’t compromise quality, and the result is a high quality 32-channel audio interface for about half the price. Conclusion The XR18 has 16 flexible analog inputs and preamps built in to the device, and serves as a mixer as well as an interface, but the quality is middle of the road. Clarett is Focusrite’s premium USB range with three models and a decent bundle of software including Focusrite’s Red 2 and Red 3 plugins and Plugin Alliance’s bx_console Focusrite SC. Clarett+ focuses on improving audio performance rather than expanding that feature set. Think of RME and you'll think of high-end, high-quality audio interfaces. The UCX II is no different, but when you look at the massive number of features, plus the exceptional audio quality, the price tag seems very reasonable.

M-32 AD / M-32 DA Pro II-D

If you're feeling lazy (or you're a drummer) you can take advantage of the auto gain-setting feature which, as you may expect, automatically sets the optimum input level for each channel. This is great for a fast and dirty full band recording, or handy if you're playing drums while recording yourself. Bundled Software: ME TotalMix FX, Total Mix Remote (iOS, Mac, PC), Brainworx Plug-ins, Scuffham S-Gear Amp Collection Certain audio interfaces could include a number of digital input and output channels in addition to XLR and 14 inch connections. When a setup expansion calls for the usage of digital channels, these digital input channels can be useful.

Bundled Software: Ableton Live Lite, Melodyne Essential, UJAM, Softube Marshall, Plugin Alliance Ampeg, Relab LX480 Essentials Most recording of raw sound is done with a microphone of some sort. The microphone turns physical sound waves into an electrical signal. And that electrical signal is often referred to as analog sound or an analog signal. XLR inputs are usually accompanied by a preamp to handle microphones. Combo XLR/TRS inputs usually have preamps embedded, so they are mic-ready. Some units have versatile line level and instrument level switching for specific ports. Line level vs instrument level is an important distinction that some musicians know little about. For most home recording artists, 1 channel is often enough. In fact, I’ve recorded dozens of songs using only 1 channel. Eight combo inputs are split between the front and rear panels. The first two on the front also offer Hi-Z compatibility. There are also digital coaxial inputs and outputs on the rear. The preamps are Roland's own VS variety, promising transparent recording at up to 24-bit/192kHz.This of course begs the question, how to you get that digital audio? Getting Digital Audio Into Your Interface Two independent headphone outputs are on the front of the unit, along with mute, mono, phantom power, and line input buttons. The Universal Audio Volt 276 audio interface impresses with its exceptional build quality, high-quality compressor, and improved sound quality. It offers seamless compatibility with various devices, low latency, and an intuitive setup process. While it may have some limitations, such as the requirement for dual USB ports and limited analog compressor presets, its overall performance justifies its price point. For those seeking versatility and exceptional audio quality in their recording endeavors, the Volt 276 proves to be a solid investment. Tech Specs Includes everything great about the 3rd generation of Scarlett interfaces, such as the "Air" feature

This Behringer X Air XR18 is a little different than a lot of the interfaces I recommend in that it serves as both a mixer and an audio interface. It’s at its best when used for recording live sound.Before we dive headfirst into the features of each one, it's worth noting that some interfaces are described as having 16, 24, or more, simultaneous inputs. While the blurb isn't an outright lie, often the total number includes an ADAT or other digital audio input, as well as the analog connections. in/12-out design includes periodic, front-mounted I/O to keep essentials recording-ready without sacrificing connectivity for special instances of use In the end, the best audio interface for you will at least partly come down to price, so you’ll be pleased to know that our list of recommendations in this guide covers a broad range from beginner to pro. We’d also recommend reading our guide focused specifically on the best budget audio interfaces if you have less to spend.