Best Cheap Audio Interfaces: Our Top Picks!

Best Cheap Audio Interfaces

Introduction

Audio interfaces are essential pieces of hardware that can transform your PC or Mac into a recording studio. If you spend your time making music on your computer, an audio interface is a must-have for any studio setup.

It gives you the necessary inputs for recording sound, as well as outputs for listening to your music and checking the quality of your work.

With so many audio interfaces available today, it can be tough to know which one is right for you. Our goal is to help you find the best option for your style and needs. That’s why we’ve put together our list of the top 10 audio interfaces.

What’s an Audio Interface

An audio interface acts as a bridge between your microphones, devices, other audio gear, and your computer. You’ll want an audio interface if you plan to record high-quality audio into your DAW and send signals in and out of your audio system.

An audio interface—sometimes called a soundboard—is a hardware device designed mainly to handle AD and DA conversion. In simple terms, it changes an analog signal (“A”) from your mic or instrument into a digital signal (“D”) for your computer. This process is called “Analog to Digital” or “AD” conversion. It also works the other way around, converting digital signals from your computer back into analog signals (“DA”).

There are plenty of different audio interfaces on the market, each with its own number of inputs, outputs, and unique features.

Just so you know, the audio interfaces we list here are in no particular order. They’re randomized, as we don’t want to rank them from best to worst.

Listed below are our Top 9 Best Cheap Audio Interfaces:

1. Focusrite Scarlett 4i4

The Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 is one of the most popular audio interfaces among musicians and producers. Like other Scarlett models, it delivers high-quality sound for any instrument you connect. The 4i4 stands out with more connectivity options, offering additional inputs and outputs for greater flexibility.

This model features upgraded preamps with up to 56dB of gain, along with the inclusion of the ISA transformer preamp emulation option, known as “Air,” and balanced connectivity throughout. Nearly every unit in the Scarlett range has received both physical and technical upgrades.

The Scarlett 4i4 is compatible with Focusrite’s Control application, which allows you to manage settings like the Air option, pad, and line/Hi-Z instrument selector. Note that some of these features can only be adjusted through this software.

As expected from the Scarlett series, the drivers are reliable, the sound is neutral, and both units support sample rates up to 192kHz. When the Air option is engaged, the frequency response tilts towards the high end, which can add a pleasing lift to high frequencies.

You’ll also get a generous software bundle, including the Focusrite Red 2 and Red 3 plugin suite, Softube Time and Tone bundle, Pro Tools First Focusrite Creative Pack, Ableton Live Lite 10, XLN Audio Addictive Keys, and access to the Focusrite Plug-In Collective.

During our time with this audio interface, we used it extensively for a variety of purposes. What excited us most was the Air feature, which added a noticeable brightness and clarity to our recordings. However, we were less enthusiastic about the touch feature, as we prefer the tactile feel of physical buttons over touch panels.

IMAGE	PRODUCT	Amazon Store	For US Customers	For EU Customers
	Focusrite Scarlett 4i4	Price On Amazon	Price on Sweetwater	Price on Thomann

2. Audient Evo 8

Audient is evolving with the times, as we’re now living in a golden age for recording. With more musicians, podcasters, and recordists emerging every day, Audient has introduced the new EVO 8 USB audio interface.

The EVO 8 features an innovative Smartgain automatic level setting function, four transparent EVO preamps, class-leading converters, a JFET instrument input, and ultra-low latency performance. It’s extra portable, sounds fantastic, and is an ideal travel companion for creators on the move.

To help you capture pristine, distortion-free sound, the EVO 8 offers class-leading converters, a 24-bit/96kHz sample rate, and a 113dB dynamic range. Powered by a USB 2.0 connection, there’s no need for an extra power adapter.

The EVO 8 includes two front-panel headphone jacks and two stereo monitor outputs, giving you everything you need to start recording right away. Designed for the new generation of artists, this interface stands out on our list of the top 10 audio interfaces for 2023.

We still use the smaller Evo 4 for portable needs, but the Evo 8 offers more functionality with its additional inputs and outputs. What really sets this interface apart is the Smartgain option. If you’re not sure how hot your recording levels should be, we highly recommend giving it a try.

That’s probably the biggest advantage of this audio interface, in addition to its sound quality and compact size. The only thing to keep in mind is that it feels a bit fragile, so be careful not to drop it.

IMAGE	PRODUCT	Amazon Store	For US Customers	For EU Customers
	Audient Evo 8	Price On Amazon	Price on Sweetwater	Price on Thomann

3. SSL 2+ Audio Interface

The SSL 2+ USB audio interface brings the legendary SSL sound right into your studio. For over 40 years, Solid State Logic has been a driving force in audio recording, and with the SSL 2+, you get that same professional quality at your fingertips.

The SSL 2+ features 24-bit/192 kHz converters and a pair of pro-grade preamps. Its standout Legacy 4K feature channels the signature sound of the iconic SSL 4000 series. With a simple button press, you can give your preamps two distinct sonic enhancements. First, you’ll get a musical high-frequency EQ boost that helps vocals or instruments stand out in the mix. Second, it adds gentle harmonic distortion, giving your signal extra character and warmth.

As for shipping and packaging, the SSL 2+ comes with an extensive production pack. This includes third-party software from Native Instruments, Avid, and Ableton, as well as 1.5GB of samples from Loopcloud. Plus, you get two SSL Native channel strips—Vocalstrip 2 and Drumstrip. It’s easy to see why this legendary audio interface makes our list.

When we checked out the SSL 2+ in-store, we were impressed with how comfortably it sits on a desk. Beyond its impressive features and well-crafted preamps, the Legacy 4K mode really stands out and quickly became a favorite. The design is also user-friendly and looks great in any setup.

Compared to other audio interfaces in this price range, the SSL 2+ offers features you simply won’t find elsewhere—especially the unique Legacy 4K mode. Honestly, we couldn’t find a single downside to this interface, and we highly recommend giving it a try.

IMAGE	PRODUCT	Amazon Store	For US Customers	For EU Customers
	SSL 2+	Price On Amazon	Price on Sweetwater	Price on Thomann

4. Audient iD4

The Audient iD4 is a straightforward two-input, two-output audio interface that offers a high-quality mic preamp with phantom power for condenser mics, along with an instrument-level DI for plugging in your bass or guitar. On top of that, the iD4 features a main output for your speakers and two headphone outputs. For less than $200, the Audient iD4 is arguably the best audio interface you can get.

The iD4 works seamlessly with iPhone or iPad, powered via USB and Apple’s camera connection kit. Audient really thought of everything, balancing usability and value perfectly. This interface is a fantastic option for musicians on a budget who want professional gear in their studio.

The Audient iD4 is incredibly simple to use and is, in our opinion, the best USB audio interface available at this price point in a long time. That’s why it was an easy choice to include it in our top picks for affordable audio interfaces.

What really makes this interface stand out is that it packs a punch in a compact box. Audient is well known for their converters and the excellent sound quality they deliver. The iD4 includes all the features you need from an interface—nothing unnecessary.

When we first listened to it in the audio store, we were impressed by its sound and simplicity. That combination of great audio and easy operation truly sets it apart: simple, yet highly effective.

IMAGE	PRODUCT	Amazon Store	For US Customers	For EU Customers
	Audient iD4	Price On Amazon	Price on Sweetwater	Price on Thomann

5. Presonus Studio 24c

The Studio 24c is a 2-in, 2-out audio interface featuring two front-panel combo mic/line/instrument inputs with PreSonus XMAX-L solid-state mic preamps. It comes bundled with Studio One Artist music production software for macOS and Windows. Studio One allows you to store, audition, and purchase new content directly from your production environment.

A dedicated Mixer knob lets you blend analog input and computer playback for low-latency monitoring. The Studio 24c delivers clear, clean, ultra-high-definition sound in a bus-powered, rugged unit. While it works perfectly with any recording software, it offers an affordable solution for both home and mobile recording.

The Studio 24c operates at up to 192 kHz for ultra-high-definition recording and mixing. High-quality converters on both input and output, along with PreSonus’ professional-grade XMAX-L mic preamps, let you capture complex musical harmonics easily and naturally, without audible distortion. XMAX-L mic preamps are specially designed to perform optimally in bus-powered audio interfaces, so you can take great sound with you wherever you record.

One feature we really liked about this interface is the metering—it’s so precise and helps us make the right decisions when setting recording levels. With all these features, we can make perfect home recordings without worry. The vocals we recorded with this interface still sound great today, so there’s no compromise on quality.

The only downside is that it feels a bit fragile, so you need to be careful not to drop it. But honestly, that goes for every audio unit we own—taking care of your gear is always important to keep it safe and working well.

IMAGE	PRODUCT	Amazon Store	For US Customers	For EU Customers
	PreSonus Studio 24c	Price On Amazon	Price on Sweetwater	Price on Thomann

6. Steinberg UR12

The Steinberg UR12 USB Audio Interface stands out with its compact design, outstanding build quality, seamless iPad connectivity, and the excellent D-PRE mic preamp, all of which redefine quality for its class of 2-in/2-out USB interfaces. With 24/192 converters, you get exceptional audio fidelity, while the D-PRE preamp brings incredible detail, depth, and dynamics to your microphone recordings.

The Steinberg UR12 shows that top-tier components can fit into a compact device at a very competitive price point. Its cleverly designed features give you all the inputs and outputs you need to quickly record your tracks.

Not long ago, the level of quality offered by the UR12 would have seemed impossible at this price. The renowned D-PRE preamp delivers detailed and dynamic sound, while the second input gives you a Hi-Z option for guitars or basses. Supporting beautiful 24-bit recording at an impressive 192 kHz, the Steinberg UR12 offers nearly unmatched fidelity for recording in its price range.

The Steinberg UR12 is engineered not just for maximum functionality and quality in a highly compact design, but also to be available at a very affordable price.

Usually, smaller interfaces at this price point mean you have to settle for average audio quality, but the Steinberg UR12 breaks that mold. With its first-rate components, fantastic value, and super portable design, it’s truly a standout.

We also love that Steinberg made this interface, ensuring flawless compatibility with Cubase, our favorite DAW. While other interfaces might work, we expected and received better integration with Cubase. The preamps are a major highlight, truly setting this interface apart from others in its class.

The only downside is that the UR12 is quite straightforward, without any extra features, but it covers all the essentials that matter most in an audio interface.

IMAGE	PRODUCT	Amazon Store	For US Customers	For EU Customers
	Steinberg UR12	Price On Amazon	Price on Sweetwater	Price on Thomann

7. Behringer U-Phoria UMC22

When it’s time to record, you want an audio interface you can truly depend on. That’s why Behringer took things to the next level with their U-PHORIA Series USB Audio Interfaces. With four different models to choose from, the U-PHORIA Series offers the perfect interface to make your recording experience exceptional.

Behringer’s sister company, MIDAS—renowned for their digital console design—developed the world-class preamps for the UMC204, UMC202, and UMC22 interfaces. Thanks to the available +48V phantom power, you can even use professional-grade studio condenser microphones to create outstanding tracks.

You take your tracks seriously, and the U-PHORIA Series respects that, giving you a choice of 96kHz resolution (UMC204/UMC202) or 48kHz resolution converters (UMC22/UM2), depending on your needs. Both sampling rates deliver audio quality that’s better than CD, ensuring professional results.

All U-PHORIA models feature a powerful headphone output with level control and direct monitor select, along with status, signal, and clip LEDs. They’re powered by your computer’s USB port, so you can take them anywhere. Plus, you get free audio recording, editing, and podcasting software, along with 150 instrument and effect plug-ins, just a download away at BEHRINGER.com.

In our own experience with the UMC22, we encountered no issues—the audio interface performed flawlessly. The vocals were clear and crisp, and the included extras were a welcome bonus. While this model covers all the essentials and nothing more, for its price, it truly delivers and should leave every user satisfied.

IMAGE	PRODUCT	Amazon Store	For EU Customers	For US Customers
	Behringer U-Phoria UMC22	Price On Amazon	Price on Thomann	Price on Sweetwater

8. Mackie Onyx Artist

Aesthetically speaking, there’s nothing particularly unique about the design of the Onyx Artist 1-2—it looks like 90% of the other budget audio interfaces out there (aside from the cool Mackie logo watermarked onto the chassis!).

Under the hood, this USB 2.0-powered interface features premium Mackie circuitry with a well-known Onyx mic preamp for excellent clarity. For connecting instruments like electric or bass guitars, there’s a 1/4” TRS input with a Hi-Z switch, while connecting studio mics is easy with the XLR input and +48v phantom power switch.

As you’d expect, both inputs are conveniently located at the front of the device, along with individual gain controls. The headphone jack is also up front, while the back of the unit houses the balanced TRS monitor outputs.

The Onyx Artist 1-2 is compatible with both Mac and PC. While it comes with a copy of Tracktion T7, this interface works with any DAW, which is great because you’ll want to use it to its fullest potential.

Overall, the performance is surprisingly solid for an entry-level unit. The sound quality is excellent, offering a pure replication of your instrument’s tone, 24-bit/192kHz recording, and no-latency monitoring. The controls feel sturdy and responsive, and the USB power makes it perfect for use on the go—just plug it into your device and you’re ready.

What do we think about Mackie? Well, the Onyx Artist 1-2 is tough and durable, so you shouldn’t worry too much if you drop it. (Just kidding—don’t drop it, even though it’s pretty rugged.) This robust build quality is probably its most notable feature compared to the competition. Otherwise, the features are fairly standard, which isn’t surprising. The preamps are the standout feature here, but there’s nothing else that really makes us say, “Wow.”

IMAGE	PRODUCT	Amazon Store	For US Customers	For EU Customers
	Mackie Onyx Artist	Price On Amazon	Price on Sweetwater	Price on Thomann

Cheap Audio Interfaces – Latest Additions

9. Motu M6

Here’s the newest addition for 2023: the MOTU M6. We have a separate, dedicated review of this interface, but here’s a quick summary:

The MOTU M6 offers six inputs—four of them accept mic, line, and Hi-Z instrument signals, while the remaining two are for 1/4″ line signals. One of the first things you’ll notice is that all the inputs are located on the back of the unit.

A standout feature is the A/B monitor switch, which is unique in its class. This lets you easily compare your mix output on two sets of studio monitors at the same time. Both headphone outputs are powered by ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology and each comes with independent volume control.

The ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC delivers 120dB of dynamic range, ensuring the M6’s analog audio quality can compete with the best gear out there.

Thanks to a 32-sample buffer and optimized drivers, you get round-trip latency as low as 2.5ms at 24-bit/96kHz. The M6 comes with four mic/line/Hi-Z guitar inputs on combo XLR/TRS jacks, four DC-coupled analog outputs, and an ESS-driven stereo headphone output. All the essential connections are included, and you also get MIDI I/O.

When we first tested this audio interface, we were immediately impressed with the recording quality. On top of that, the outstanding metering really sets the M6 apart from other interfaces in its class. MOTU, a subtle giant in the industry, has clearly poured a lot of expertise into designing this interface.

The benefits are significant, with great preamps and plenty of versatility. The only downsides are that it’s a desktop model (so it can’t be rack-mounted) and you’ll need to spend a little time learning how to use the loopback feature—nothing more.

IMAGE	PRODUCT	Amazon Store	For US Customers	For EU Customers
	Motu M6	Price On Amazon	Price on Sweetwater	Price on Thomann