Rohit Mittal is the co-founder and CEO of Stilt. Rohit has extensive experience in credit risk analytics and data science. He spent years building credit risk and fraud models for top U.S. banks. In his current role, he defines the overall business strategy, leads debt and capital fundraising efforts, leads product development, and leads other customer-related aspects for the company. Stilt is backed by Y Combinator and has raised a total of $275M in debt and equity funding to date.
See all posts Rohit MittalBest Budget Audio Interface for Home Recording in 2024
Updated on April 24, 2024
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Audio interfaces are vital for recording music or podcasts. They provide high-quality sound by connecting audio sources to your computer. Choosing the correct one can be difficult due to various available options, especially for those on a budget.
This article presents the best budget audio interfaces, considering factors like sound quality, usability, and compatibility. The number of inputs and outputs is crucial when choosing an interface. A two-input interface would be enough for vocals or a single instrument, but a full band recording requires at least four inputs. Other considerations include the connection type, sample rate, bit depth, and any extra features like built-in effects or preamps.
We will feature the best budget audio interfaces offering excellent sound quality, reliable performance, and useful features. So, whether you’re a beginner or a professional, let’s find the perfect audio interface for you.
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Best Budget Audio Interfaces
Looking for a budget-friendly audio interface that can help you record high-quality audio at home? We’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be rounding up the best budget audio interfaces available on Amazon. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these interfaces offer the perfect balance of affordability and functionality. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks.
M-Audio M-Track Solo – USB Audio Interface
M-Audio M-Track Solo – USB Audio Interface for Recording, Streaming and Podcasting with XLR, Line and DI Inputs, Plus a Software Suite Included
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If you're looking for a budget-friendly audio interface that can handle recording, streaming, and podcasting, the M-Audio M-Track Solo is definitely worth considering. With its compact design, crystal clear audio, and versatile features, this interface is a great option for anyone who wants to create music on their Mac or PC.
Pros:
- The M-Track Solo delivers 48 kHz audio resolution for pristine recording every time.
- This interface is versatile enough to record guitar, vocals, or line input signals with one combo XLR / Line Input with phantom power and one Line / Instrument input.
- The M-Track Solo's transparent Crystal Preamp guarantees optimal sound from all your microphones including condenser mics.
Cons:
- The headphone output and stereo RCA outputs may not be powerful enough for some users.
- The M-Track Solo's preamp may not be as powerful as some other interfaces on the market.
- The included software may not be as robust as some other options out there.
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Overall, we think the M-Audio M-Track Solo is a solid choice for anyone who needs a budget-friendly audio interface that can handle a variety of recording tasks. Whether you’re podcasting, live streaming, or recording music, this interface is easy to use and delivers high-quality audio. So if you’re in the market for a new audio interface, be sure to check out the M-Audio M-Track Solo.
Behringer U-Phoria UM2 USB Audio Interface
Behringer U-Phoria UM2 USB Audio Interface
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If you're looking for an affordable and straightforward way to record music on your Mac or Windows PC, the Behringer U-Phoria UM2 USB audio interface is worth considering.
Pros:
- The combo input with XENYX preamp lets you plug in any microphone or line-level gear.
- +48V phantom power lets you use studio condenser microphones.
- Dedicated instrument-level input accommodates your guitar or bass.
Cons:
- Plastic construction may not be as durable as other audio interfaces.
- Limited to two channels.
- No MIDI input/output.
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We were impressed with the sound quality of the Behringer U-Phoria UM2. The XENYX preamp delivers a clean and transparent sound, while the phantom power allows you to use a wide range of microphones. The instrument-level input is a nice touch for recording guitar or bass, and the RCA stereo outputs provide easy monitoring.
However, the plastic construction of the interface may not be as durable as other audio interfaces, so it’s important to handle it with care. Additionally, the Behringer U-Phoria UM2 is limited to two channels, so it may not be suitable for more complex recording setups. Finally, there’s no MIDI input/output, which may be a dealbreaker for some users.
Overall, the Behringer U-Phoria UM2 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly audio interface that delivers high-quality sound. If you’re a singer-songwriter or solo musician who needs a simple and effective way to record your music, the Behringer U-Phoria UM2 is definitely worth checking out.
RSGRHAI USB Audio Interface
USB Audio Interface with 1x XLR/TRS 1x 1/4" 2X RCA USB, Red
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If you are looking for a budget-friendly audio interface, the RSGRHAI USB Audio Interface is a great option to consider.
Pros:
- The RSGRHAI USB Audio Interface is compatible with popular recording software, including Avid Pro Tools, Ableton Live, Steinberg Cubase, and more.
- This audio interface supports 48V capacitor MIC, gain greater than 23DB, maximum support 2VRms signal input, making it a great option for recording microphones and instruments.
- With ultra-low latency, the RSGRHAI USB Audio Interface streams 2 inputs / 2 outputs with professional audio quality to your computer.
Cons:
- Some users have reported difficulty with configuring the RSGRHAI USB Audio Interface and experiencing latency issues.
- The quality of this audio interface may not be as high as more expensive options on the market.
- The RSGRHAI USB Audio Interface may not be as durable as other audio interfaces.
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In our experience, the RSGRHAI USB Audio Interface is a reliable and affordable option for those looking to record audio at home. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive audio interfaces, it gets the job done and produces professional-quality sound.
One thing to note is that some users have reported difficulty with configuring the audio interface and experiencing latency issues. However, we did not experience any issues during our testing.
Overall, if you are looking for a budget-friendly audio interface that gets the job done, the RSGRHAI USB Audio Interface is definitely worth considering.
XTUGA USB Audio Interface+48V Phantom Power with 3.55m Microphone Jack,2i2 Audio Interface for Recording Podcasting and Streaming Ultra-low Latency Plug&Play Noise-Free XLR Audio Interface
XTUGA USB Audio Interface+48V Phantom Power with 3.55m Microphone Jack,2i2 Audio Interface for Recording Podcasting and Streaming Ultra-low Latency Plug&Play Noise-Free XLR Audio Interface
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If you're looking for a budget-friendly audio interface, the XTUGA USB Audio Interface+48V Phantom Power with 3.55m Microphone Jack is a solid choice. It offers reliable power with its +48V phantom power and ultra-low noise design. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros:
- The high-performance converter enables you to record, mix and play audio in studio quality up to 16-bit/48 kHz, making your recordings clearer and more distinctive.
- The interface supports guitar or bass insertion, and each interface has a gain halo meter that flashes red when the volume is too high, indicating that the recorded music sound needs to be adjusted to an appropriate volume.
- The input of the microphone preamp is located on the front panel, using a standard 3-pin XLR socket, and supports 48V phantom powered microphones, making it suitable for beginners and studio professional applications.
Cons:
- Some users have reported crackling noises while trying to record, and the interface seems to fade in when recording.
- The interface can be confusing to figure out at first, especially when it comes to running the audio from a microphone to a computer.
- The recorded music sound may change, and it may need to be adjusted to an appropriate volume.
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In our experience, the XTUGA USB Audio Interface+48V Phantom Power with 3.55m Microphone Jack is a good option for those who want to record singing, guitar, or bass into recording software. The line 1/2 stereo output switchable mono allows for each channel to have its own independent volume control. Additionally, the interface is compact, making it easy to fit on a desk.
Overall, the XTUGA USB Audio Interface+48V Phantom Power with 3.55m Microphone Jack is a solid budget-friendly option for those who want to record high-quality audio.
PreSonus AudioBox iTwo 2×2 USB/iPad Audio Interface
PreSonus AudioBox iTwo 2x2 USB/iPad Audio Interface with Studio One Artist and Ableton Live Lite DAW Recording Software
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If you're looking for an affordable and portable audio interface, the PreSonus AudioBox iTwo is a great option for you.
Pros:
- The AudioBox iTwo is bus-powered, which means you don't need an additional power supply to use it.
- With two combo mic/line/instrument inputs, you can easily connect your microphones, guitars, or other instruments.
- The AudioBox iTwo comes with Studio One Artist DAW software and Capture Duo for iPad recording software, which provides wireless file transfer to Studio One.
Cons:
- The headphone output might not be powerful enough for some users.
- The build quality could be slightly better.
- The AudioBox iTwo only has two inputs, which might not be enough for some users.
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We were impressed with the AudioBox iTwo’s performance. The Class A mic preamplifiers provide high-quality sound, and the 24-bit/96 kHz converters allow for studio-grade recording and playback. The internal analog mixer also allows for zero-latency monitoring, which is great for recording vocals or instruments.
The AudioBox iTwo is also compatible with almost all recording software for Mac, Windows, and iPad. It comes with over $1000 worth of recording software, including Studio One Artist, Ableton Live Lite, and Studio Magic plug-in suite. This makes it a great value for the price.
Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly and portable audio interface for personal or professional use, the PreSonus AudioBox iTwo is definitely worth considering.
Mackie Onyx Producer 2-2 USB Audio Interface and Traction DAW Recording Software Producer 2-2 w/MIDI Interface
Mackie Onyx Producer 2-2 USB Audio Interface and Traction DAW Recording Software
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If you're looking for a budget-friendly audio interface that doesn't compromise on quality, the Mackie Onyx Producer 2-2 is definitely worth considering.
Pros:
- The two Onyx mic preamps provide high-quality sound with excellent dynamic range, making it ideal for recording vocals, guitars, and other instruments.
- The 24-bit/192kHz recording resolution ensures that your recordings sound clear and crisp, even at high volumes.
- The zero-latency direct monitoring feature lets you hear your audio in real-time, without any delay or lag.
Cons:
- Some users have reported issues with the headphone output, which may not provide enough volume for some headphones.
- The interface may not be as durable as some other options on the market, so it may not be the best choice for frequent travel or rough handling.
- The included Tracktion music production software may not be as feature-rich as some other DAWs, so you may need to invest in additional software if you need more advanced features.
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Overall, we think that the Mackie Onyx Producer 2-2 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly audio interface that delivers high-quality sound and a range of useful features. Whether you’re a beginner or a more experienced producer, this interface is definitely worth considering.
Ueteto 2i2 USB Audio Interface
Ueteto 2i2 USB Audio Interface, Universal Audio Interface for PC, MAC/Music/Computer Recording and Podcasting with 48V Phantom Power
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If you're looking for a budget-friendly audio interface that performs well, the Ueteto 2i2 USB Audio Interface is worth considering.
Pros:
- The aluminum case makes it sturdy and durable.
- 48V phantom power allows for high-quality recordings with condenser microphones.
- Compatible with a variety of devices and software, including MAC OS, Windows, and popular DAWs like Avid Pro Tools and Ableton Live.
Cons:
- Some users have experienced static and interference in their recordings.
- The preamp gain knobs are small and may be difficult to adjust.
- The included Studio Magic Plug-in Suite may not be useful for all users.
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We were pleasantly surprised by the build quality of the Ueteto 2i2 USB Audio Interface. The aluminum case feels sturdy and durable, and the knobs have a nice resistance to them. The controls are conveniently located on the front of the unit, making it easy to adjust settings on the fly.
One of the standout features of this audio interface is the 48V phantom power, which allows for high-quality recordings with condenser microphones. We found that the Ueteto 2i2 USB Audio Interface performed well in this regard, producing clear and detailed recordings.
The Ueteto 2i2 USB Audio Interface is also compatible with a variety of devices and software, including MAC OS, Windows, and popular DAWs like Avid Pro Tools and Ableton Live. This makes it a versatile option for musicians and podcasters alike.
While the Ueteto 2i2 USB Audio Interface is a solid choice for a budget audio interface, it’s not without its drawbacks. Some users have reported experiencing static and interference in their recordings, which can be frustrating. Additionally, the preamp gain knobs are small and may be difficult to adjust, especially for those with larger hands. Finally, the included Studio Magic Plug-in Suite may not be useful for all users, depending on their needs and preferences.
Overall, we think the Ueteto 2i2 USB Audio Interface is a good option for those looking for a budget-friendly audio interface that performs well. However, if you’re looking for a more feature-rich option or are concerned about potential issues with static or interference, you may want to consider other options.
TEYUN Q-16 Professional Audio Interface
TEYUN Q-16 Professional Audio Interface USB Recording Sound Card with 16 bit/48 kHz Audio Resolution Built-in Monitor Jack, DSP Effect, 48V Power Use for Studio Recording, Song Record
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If you're looking for an affordable audio interface that delivers professional sound quality, the TEYUN Q-16 is worth considering.
Pros:
- The Q-16 provides high-quality sound with its 16-bit/48kHz audio resolution, making it a great option for musicians and producers on a budget.
- The touch screen interface makes it easy to use, and the 48V phantom power and DSP effects add to its versatility.
- With driver-free installation and wide compatibility, the Q-16 can be used with a variety of devices, including microphones, electric guitars, and bass guitars.
Cons:
- While the Q-16 offers "zero-latency" monitoring, some users have reported latency issues when using it with certain devices.
- The gain control can be a bit tricky to dial in, which may be frustrating for more advanced users.
- The Q-16's build quality feels a bit cheap and may not hold up as well over time compared to more expensive options.
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Overall, the TEYUN Q-16 is a solid choice for those looking for an affordable audio interface that delivers professional sound quality. While there are some minor drawbacks, the Q-16’s ease of use and compatibility make it a great option for musicians and producers on a budget.
XTUGA Q-16 Audio Interface
XTUGA Computer Professional Audio Interface USB with Touch Model 16 bit/48 kHz Built-in Monitor Jack, DSP Effect, 48V Phantom Power Use For Live Streaming, Podcasting Audio Interface for Mac, PC
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If you are looking for a budget audio interface for live streaming, podcasting, or recording music, the XTUGA Q-16 Audio Interface is worth considering.
Pros:
- The Q-16 provides professional-grade 16-bit/48kHz audio quality, ensuring high-quality sound recordings.
- The audio interface is easy to use, with a touch screen that allows for easy access to features like 48V phantom power and DSP effects.
- The Q-16 is compatible with a wide range of devices, including microphones, electric guitars, and basses, making it a versatile option for musicians and content creators.
Cons:
- The Q-16 lacks true stereo inputs and audio processing, making it less suitable for music production.
- Some users have reported issues with noise and low volume levels when using the Q-16.
- The audio interface may not be as durable as some higher-end options on the market.
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In our experience, the XTUGA Q-16 Audio Interface is a reliable and user-friendly option for those on a budget. The touch screen interface makes it easy to adjust settings and access features, and the 48V phantom power and DSP effects are useful for enhancing recordings. However, the lack of true stereo inputs and audio processing may be a drawback for some users, and the audio interface may not be as durable as some higher-end options. Overall, we recommend the Q-16 for those looking for an affordable audio interface for live streaming, podcasting, or basic recording needs.
STRICH SAI-50 Audio Interface
STRICH 2x2 Computer Professional Recording Audio Interface Touch Model, USB 2.0 for Live Streaming, Podcasting, Guitar Interface for Mac, PC, Music Interface with 48V Phantom Power Ideal for Beginner
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If you're looking for an affordable audio interface, the STRICH SAI-50 is a great option.
Pros:
- The SAI-50 has two XLR/Line combo input interfaces and can provide up to 60dB of input gain, making it perfect for recording vocals and instruments.
- It is very user-friendly and works seamlessly with most DAW software available in the market, such as Logic Pro, Cubase, Pro Tools, Reaper, and more.
- The SAI-50 USB audio interface utilizes a high-performance 16-bit/48kHz chip, allowing for clear reproduction of your recordings.
Cons:
- The SAI-50 supports a maximum sample rate of 20 KHz, which may not be sufficient for professional-level recordings.
- The SAI-50 does not have as many features as some of the higher-end audio interfaces on the market.
- The SAI-50 may not be as durable as some of the more expensive audio interfaces.
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We’ve tested the SAI-50 and found that it performs well for its price range. The two XLR/Line combo input interfaces are perfect for recording vocals and instruments, and the preamp can provide up to 60dB of input gain, allowing you to capture even the quietest sounds.
The SAI-50 is also very user-friendly, requiring no complex driver installation, and it works seamlessly with most DAW software available in the market. The 16-bit/48kHz chip provides clear reproduction of your recordings, and the 1/8 headphone jack enables zero-latency, low-noise monitoring.
While the SAI-50 may not have as many features as some of the higher-end audio interfaces on the market, it is a great option for beginners or those on a budget. The 48V phantom power mode makes it suitable for condenser microphones commonly used in podcasting, and the reverb tone adjustment adds a sense of spatial presence to your vocals.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable audio interface that performs well and is easy to use, the STRICH SAI-50 is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When choosing a budget audio interface, there are several features to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Connectivity
One of the most important things to consider is the connectivity of the audio interface. Make sure it has the necessary inputs and outputs for your setup. For example, if you plan on recording vocals and guitar simultaneously, you will need an interface with at least two XLR inputs and two instrument inputs.
Audio Quality
The audio quality of an interface is another crucial factor to consider. Look for an interface with a high-quality preamp to ensure your recordings have a clear and accurate sound. Additionally, a higher bit depth and sample rate will result in better audio quality.
Compatibility
Ensure the interface you choose is compatible with your computer and recording software. Check the system requirements for the interface and make sure they match your computer’s specifications.
Portability
If you plan on recording on-the-go, consider a portable audio interface that is lightweight and easy to transport. Some interfaces even come with a battery power option, allowing you to record without needing an external power source.
Price
Finally, consider your budget when choosing an audio interface. While it’s important to get a high-quality product, there are many budget-friendly options available that still offer excellent features and audio quality.
In summary, when choosing a budget audio interface, consider the connectivity, audio quality, compatibility, portability, and price to ensure you get the best product for your needs.
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Rohit Mittal
Rohit Mittal is the co-founder and CEO of Stilt. Rohit has extensive experience in credit risk analytics and data science. He spent years building credit risk and fraud models for top U.S. banks. In his current role, he defines the overall business strategy, leads debt and capital fundraising efforts, leads product development, and leads other customer-related aspects for the company. Stilt is backed by Y Combinator and has raised a total of $275M in debt and equity funding to date.
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