what is the best audio interface to use with pro tools 8 le
Best audio interfaces 2022: 17 USB and Thunderbolt options for Mac and PC
Getting agree of ane of the best sound interfaces is 1 of the most important moves you can make as a home producer. In most situations, an audio interface is integral to any home recording setup, and if you spend any time at all making music on a PC or Mac you'll want to take hold of yourself one. Having ane of the best audio interfaces will enable yous to become high-quality audio in and out of your computer, and to connect other essential studio gear and instruments during your recording sessions.
Once you've decided on the correct sound interface, at that place'll be no stopping you. Y'all'll be able to tape electric and acoustic guitars, microphones, synths and any other musical equipment with an output, straight into a DAW of your option.
The market is awash with audio interfaces, all of which offer unlike features to turn your head. Then, how do you choose the best audio interface for you and your studio? We'll tell you everything y'all demand to know most what y'all need and why you lot demand it, and we'll also recommend some of the best audio interfaces yous can purchase right now. With options covering everything from multi-input Thunderbolt options, to great entry-level USB audio interfaces and great sound interfaces for Mac users, at that place should be something for you lot hither.
Nosotros've included some practiced buying communication at the end of this guide, and then if yous'd like to read more about the best audio interfaces we'd recommend you showtime there. If y'all'd rather get straight to our product choices, continue scrolling.
Best audio interfaces: Our top picks
If you're looking for the best audio interface on a budget, then our become-to is the Audient iD4 MkII (opens in new tab) . It'due south a simple, straightforward ii-in/2-out USB device that looks, sounds and feels great. Information technology enables y'all to plug in microphones and instruments, and offers cracking value for money - then for those who're ownership their first audio interface, it's a truly first-class choice.
If ii inputs and outputs seems a scrap restrictive, or you've got a scrap more cash to splash, nosotros'd accept a look at the third-generation version of the Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 (opens in new tab) . A USB-C audio interface that gives you double the number of inputs and outputs of the Audient, and sounds great. Focusrite makes some of the all-time interfaces on the market for the money, so if you're looking for something solid, durable and easy to use, then you can't get also far wrong with the 4i4.
As well consider the SSL two+ (opens in new tab) , a new 2-in/4-out audio interface that gives you at least a flavor of that magic 'SSL sound' at a remarkably low cost.
At the tiptop end, consider Universal Audio'due south UAD Apollo Twin MkII, a 2-in/6-out audio interface that also enables you to utilize UA's range of first-class DSP-powered plugins.
Best audio interfaces: Product guide
Arguably the best audio interface you can purchase for less than $200, The iD4 MkII is a elementary two-input/2-output offering featuring a mic preamp – complete with phantom power for using condenser mics – every bit well as an instrument level DI for plugging in your guitar or bass, plus a smart scroll bike enabling y'all to tweak settings in your software. On superlative of this, at that place's a main output for your speakers and dual headphone outputs.
The whole thing is powered via USB-C and, with Apple tree's camera connection kit, it tin can also work with an iPhone/iPad. Nonetheless, for us the studio devilry is in the item: Audient has really thought virtually everything with value and usability in mind, making what is a budget solution feel anything merely inexpensive in apply. The Audient iD4 MkII is, quite merely, the best USB audio interface we've tried at this price for a long fourth dimension.
Read the full Audient iD4 MkII review
- The best Audient iD4 Mk Ii deals
A compact interface with pro features and connectivity, the SSL2+ promises an affordable version of 'the SSL sound', bringing the experience of a gazillion recordings made in seven-figure recording studios inside reach of everybody.
This is the large brother to the standard SSL2, the main deviation being that the two+ adds two outputs to the 2-in, 2-out configuration of the two, MIDI In/Out plus an boosted independent headphone out (with both being able to monitor different mixes). There's also the 4k push button which adds some actress presence and high-end zing (and, more importantly, makes you feel that picayune bit more 'pro').
There are two combi mic/line inputs with Hi-Z (impedance) options for switching betwixt guitar and bass signals or those from synths or drum machines. A +48v choice also allows the connection of both condenser and dynamic mics.
With bully monitoring and recording quality and a flexible I/O configuration, the SSL 2+ comes highly recommended.
Read our full SSL 2+ review
- SSL 2 vs Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 tertiary gen: caput-to-head
- Explore the best SSL 2 and SSL 2+ deals
In our experience, Focusrite'south Scarlett USB interfaces have traditionally combined excellent sonics and audio flexibility at affordable price points, and the third generation units go along upwards the practiced work.
All units in the range have received physical and technical upgrades, with improved preamps (at present upward to 56dB proceeds), balanced connectivity throughout, and the inclusion of Focusrite'southward ISA transformer preamp emulation option (Air). On the bus-powered Scarlett 4i4 you get two mic/line/instrument inputs with gain, two line-level TRS inputs and four TRS outputs.
The 4i4 supports Focusrite's Control application, which means that a number of settings can merely exist made in the software. The app also handles low-latency monitoring.
As nosotros've come to wait from the Scarlett series, in exercise the sonics are neutral and the drivers reliable. The Air option tilts the frequency response towards high frequencies, and this tin can be swell for taming undesirable proximity or adding high frequency lift.
With a decent software bundle included, this is a solid upgrade and a slap-up affordable audio interface.
Read our total Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 tertiary Gen review
- Explore the best Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen deals
Notwithstanding a desktop-format 2-in/-vi-out interface with 24-bit/192kHz capabilities, the Apollo Twin MkII would be virtually indistinguishable from the original were information technology not now blackness rather than silver. It connects to your Mac or PC via Thunderbolt (there's no cable in the box), but it has to be powered from the wall. The back panel and front edge house the inputs and outputs, while the top panel centres on a satisfyingly oversized knob.
Also a DSP box for powering UAD plugin furnishings (you can choose from Solo, Duo and Quad options), the Apollo Twin MkII features the same game-changing Unison preamps as its predecessor, fed by the Mic/Line and Hello-Z ins. These enable a gradually expanding subset of UA's classic hardware emulation plugins to be inserted directly into each input path.
This is a musically empowering hardware/software hybrid that'southward capable of elevating fifty-fifty the humblest of home and projection studios to genuinely professional-quality heights, and certainly 1 of the all-time sound interfaces you lot can buy.
Read our full Universal Audio Apollo Twin MkII review
Komplete Audio 2 is a two-input, 2-output design with 2 identical mic/line/instrument inputs. Connections are on space-saving combi XLRs with individual selector switches to select between line and musical instrument. 48V phantom power, meanwhile, is engaged globally via a single switch.
In add-on to the inputs, the front panel includes a hardware monitoring balance knob (Input/Host) and headphone output with contained control.
The main output level is controlled from a large output level knob on the acme panel. Here you lot'll also detect the input meters, alongside phantom and USB indicators. Circular the back yous've got the USB B connector, a pair of balanced outputs on TRS 1⁄4-inch jacks and a Kensington Security slot.
This i makes our best audio interface list because in activeness the performance of the Komplete Audio ii is as slick every bit its looks, and though the features are basic, it does its job admirably. And when you consider the excellent software package, it'due south slap-up value.
Read our total Native Instruments Komplete Audio 2 review
MiniFuse is Arturia's super compact interface range and nosotros have the mid-sized MiniFuse 2 on examination. It's a 2-in/two-out, USB powered unit of measurement with mic/line/instrument options for both inputs, MIDI I/O and a headphone output. It likewise incorporates a USB hub, although the power draw must exist 250mA or less.
MiniFuse 2 has its own Control Centre software and is bundled with an Intro version of Arturia'south excellent Analog Lab, 4 effects, Native Instruments Guitar Rig LE and Ableton Live Light, plus 3 calendar month trial subs to Splice Creator and Automobile-Tuner Unlimited.
The MiniFuse 2 sounds pretty good, with overnice clean main outputs and plenty of volume from the headphones. The instrument inputs sound peachy and information technology'south good to see ii identical mic/line/musical instrument inputs. Only it's the overall functionality that wins through, with plenty of backlit buttons and illuminated controls then it's obvious what'south going on.
At that place are cheaper 2-in/2-out options, but MiniFuse 2 is a feature-rich device with extras that you don't always go at this price. Cistron in the impressive software bundle, generous five-year warranty and a choice of colours and you lot accept a pretty decent package for the coin.
Read the total Arturia Minifuse 2 review
The meaty Evo range was launched at the NAMM Show 2020 to much acclaim.
Yous'll find two combi mic/line inputs effectually the back of EVO 4, and one instrument level input at the forepart for connecting guitar or bass (which then overrides the beginning input around the back).
Ii speaker outs complete the connections and a central main dial controls the level of that output plus a number of other levels determined largely by which buttons on the pinnacle of the panel you press, these beingness 1 and 2 (for the input levels), and output (bottom right) plus a final push that means the dial adjusts the mix betwixt the input and DAW. Using the headphone socket means the principal punch controls this level.
The one-punch solution is beautifully implemented and designed to help brand EVO a clever, meaty desktop solution that sounds not bad.
Read the total Audient Evo 4 review
Revolution 2x2 incorporates Black Panthera leo Audio's circuit design expertise into a ii-in, ii-out audio interface with a decent software bundle, including Presonus Studio One Creative person, iZotope Elements Suite, Brainworx bx_ digital and Lindell 6X-500.
Revolution 2x2 is packed with quality components and even includes branded USB cables. Meanwhile, a new Macro MMC clocking excursion and PG-I power filtering and decoupling system prioritise audio fidelity.
Visually, we remember the unit is pretty understated and the feature set quite straightforward. Even so, prissy touches include two identical mic/line/musical instrument inputs and zero-latency monitoring with mix control and input mono option.
The blackness design is nicely kickoff by backlit buttons, two-tone input level LEDs, a green USB indicator and multipart output level LEDs, and so you lot have enough of handy visual feedback and information technology really looks the part. We likewise like the smooth controls, chunky Monitor output knob and mostly solid build quality.
Revolution 2x2 looks unassuming, just is solidly congenital, easy to set up, surprisingly portable and brings crystal clear sound. It'south extremely worthy of your time.
Read the full Black Lion Audio Revolution 2x2 review
Thousand-Rails Solo and Duo are entry-level, USB-powered, sound-only interfaces with 2-in two-out connectivity. Their feature sets are slightly different but underlying specifications are very like. Solo includes i mic/line aqueduct with switchable phantom power and one line/musical instrument channel. The main outputs are on unbalanced RCAs and the front headphone output is on an ane/8" mini-jack. Duo has a pair of mic/line/musical instrument inputs with switchable phantom ability. Outputs are on balanced 1/4" TRS jacks, the headphone output is a 1/4" jack, and there are separate headphone/output level controls.
A decent bundle of software includes the AIR Music Tech Xpand!ii synth, Eleven Lite guitar amp sim and twenty Avid plugins, as well as Pro Tools First M-Audio Edition and MPC Beats. Despite the amazingly low price, both units await well made and the black finish, recessed rubberised knobs and functional selector switches feel solid.
Both interfaces use Thousand-Audio's Crystal Preamp blueprint, and this provides you with plenty of make clean neutral gain, swell for lower output dynamic mics or weedy passive guitars. Both can audio pretty nasty when they're overloaded, and and so we kept well away from the ruby prune LED.
Grand-Audio's no-nonsense interfaces are simplicity itself, and weighing up the options, for the sake of an actress tenner we'd definitely go all out for the more flexible One thousand-Runway Duo.
Read the full M-Sound Thousand-Rail Solo and Duo review
Clarett is Focusrite's premium USB range with three models and a decent bundle of software including Focusrite's Red 2 and Ruby 3 plugins and Plugin Alliance'southward bx_console Focusrite SC. Clarett+ focuses on improving sound operation rather than expanding that feature set.
The Clarett+ 2Pre on test has two mic pres with combo mic/line/instrument inputs, four balanced outputs, MIDI I/O and ADAT for a total of x ins and 4 outs. Information technology is USB 2.0 compatible, with connection via a USB-C port that supports autobus powering only from a device that provides 15W (or use the included PSU instead). Focusrite'south Control software is easy to use and besides available as a simplified iOS app, then you can control levels, including your low latency monitoring mix from your phone.
Clarett+ has improved independent A-D and D-A converters, slightly better dissonance figures throughout, and improved dynamic range. The mic inputs are silky smooth and have plenty of headroom, and the outputs are crystal articulate and suitably noise-gratuitous. If you want to add together some life to your input, the Air option does but that. Also fantabulous are the two JFET instrument inputs, substantially better than a regular musical instrument input.
The Clarett+ 2Pre is a reasonably unproblematic interface with some very handy features, that offers subtle yet welcome improvements over its predecessor.
Read the full Focusrite Clarett+ 2Pre review
The Volt range has the affordable market place in its sights, and here we're looking at the Volt 176 and 276. These look very unlike to other UA interfaces and take a very different remit. There'south no plugin hosting, onboard software processing nor Console software. These are plug-and-play, with UA's excellent preamps and, in the instance of the two units hither, the benefit of onboard analogue processing.
Each has combo XLR/TRS inputs on the front end (just ane for the 176), phantom power, instrument switches and a headphone port. Round the back you'll notice stereo outputs, the USB connector and MIDI In/Out ports. Both interfaces are passenger vehicle powered with an external option and bundled software that includes Ableton Alive Low-cal, Melodyne Essential and assorted instruments and effects similar LABS from Spitfire Audio.
With the 76 Compressor you lot cull 1176-fashion Vocal, Guitar, Fast or Off ane-button compression, each delivering a characteristic flavour without going overboard. The Vintage selection provides the tube emulation, gentle saturation, and top-end lift of UA'southward classic 610 aqueduct.
The Volts are a radical departure for UA, merely they deserve to shake upwardly the budget interface market with a smashing design, a plug-and-play workflow and difficult-to-beat sound conversion. It's bad news for other affordable interface makers: these are nifty!
Read the full Universal Audio Volt 76 serial review
With high-quality Onyx mic pres, counterbalanced analogue connectivity and functioning up to 24-bit/192kHz, the bus-powered Onyx Producer 2.2 audio interface is more than than capable of getting clean signals in and out of your DAW. There are two identical mic/line inputs with combination XLR/jack connectors. Each has a manual green backlit switch to select a Hi Z instrument, and at that place's a global backlit switch for 48V phantom power.
Input signals can exist monitored with zero latency using the Input/DAW Mix knob, and rounding off the front panel are a large Monitor level knob and headphone output with level knob. Circular the back you'll observe a pair of 1⁄4-inch jacks for the monitor output, and also a pair of MIDI connectors (In and Out), which is very handy. Throw in the robust metal example and y'all've got a compact workhorse device that should last for years. You also become a DAW, Tracktion T7, in the box.
Read our full Mackie Onyx Producer ii.2 review
Steinberg has pimped-up its UR range of sound interfaces, introducing USB three.0 models for PC, Mac and iOS. The UR22C, on exam here, is the most affordable of these.
Each of the interfaces offers USB Type-C connectivity (or USB iii.i Gen i SuperSpeed, to give information technology its official title) and operates at 32-bit/192kHz audio resolution. At that place's MIDI I/O, too, as well as DSP that provides zero-latency effects that tin can exist used when monitoring. These tin can be accessed via the dspMixFx mixer.
Unsurprisingly, the UR22C is a 2-in/two-out audio interface. You get a couple of balanced Neutrik philharmonic inputs, each of which sports a Yamaha D-PRE mic preamp, and 2 balanced line outputs.
With its rugged metal casing, the UR22C is the best audio interface for you if you desire something that tin can be slung in a backpack without fear.
Read the total Steinberg UR22C review
The follow-up to the original iRig Pro Duo, the new version offers two analogue philharmonic inputs then that y'all tin connect and simultaneously record your favoured combination of instruments and mics. These inputs come with updated Class-A preamps, adjustable proceeds (increased for this model) and phantom power. There'due south MIDI I/O, as well, along with two balanced 1/four-inch outputs and a headphone output.
You can appoint the direct monitor switch for latency-complimentary monitoring of the incoming signal, and the iRig Pro Duo I/O comes with a USB-C cable for piece of cake compatibility with modernistic devices (Lightning and USB-A cables are supplied, too). There are new dedicated PC drivers too, along with a refreshed rubberised finish.
The iRig Pro Duo I/O can exist bus-powered or run on two AA batteries and ships with a big parcel of software. It'southward uniform with iOS, Android, PC and Mac so could be merely the thing if y'all need to record on the move and in your studio.
Read the total IK Multimedia iRig Pro Duo I/O review
AudioFuse is an attractive and portable Mac, PC and iOS-compatible interface with a raft of features. Despite its compact frame, we found there to be plenty of connectivity on offer. Along the front edge, you'll detect combi inputs and two fully contained headphone feeds. In turn, these tin accommodate both mini-jack and i/iv-inch plugs.
At the back, there are speaker outputs for 2 pairs of monitors, line level connectors, MIDI In/Out ports (which, due to size restrictions, have been replaced by mini-jack connectors, which you'll find in the box) and - for digital interfacing - both S/PDIF and ADAT In/Out. There are also inserts for inputs 1 and two, assuasive you lot to track through hardware compressors or channel strips.
AudioFuse connects via USB 2, but USB connectivity goes further; Arturia has built a USB hub into it, providing three extra USB ports. AudioFuse provides a beautiful and contemporary approach to USB audio interfacing with a great design, compatibility with a huge range of possible audio sources, a great audio and a highly tactile command set.
Read our full Arturia AudioFuse review
Antelope Audio is one of a small group of manufacturers that produces premium audio interfaces with onboard processing. In 2019 it launched an improved architecture, Synergy Core, that uses both FGPA and DSP chips to deliver near-zero latency onboard processing during recording or mixing.
Zen Tour is its 8-in/14-out compact desktop-style interface and this has now been upgraded to Synergy Core with 2 FGPA and 4 DSP chips delivering upwardly to 256 FX instances.
On the front end y'all go four DI inputs (switchable to line level if required), two individually configurable HP outs and ii handy transformer-based re-amp outputs, then you can send your DI back to a guitar amp input.
On the dorsum are four combi XLRs for mic/line ins, one pair of monitor outputs on one/4" TRS jacks, Due south/PDIF in/out, ADAT in/out and eight line-outs on 25-pin D-type.
Zen Tour Synergy Cadre comes arranged with 36 effects, including preamps, EQs, compressors, guitar amps and support for Antelope's Edge and Verge modelling mics. The pattern of these is first grade, with some classic hardware emulations.
We found information technology besides delivers fantastic fidelity, with discrete ultra-linear preamps and premium clocking courtesy of Antelope'southward acoustically focused clocking.
Zen Tour Synergy Core is an incredibly capable unit that is pretty piece of cake to use and sounds fantastic.
Read our total Antelope Audio Zen Bout Synergy Core review
Steinberg entered the Thunderbolt audio race with the the AXR4, a rack-mountable interface aimed at professional producers and engineers. This 28-in/24-out box offers latency-gratuitous DSP-powered monitoring and furnishings, stacks of I/O and enough of routing flexibility. Upwards forepart y'all'll find iv Neutrik philharmonic inputs and two headphone outputs, while the back console houses 8 TRS line inputs, eight TRS line outputs and two sets of ADAT I/O doubling as S/PDIF.
The 2d pair provides an alternative AES/EBU Sub-D connector. MIDI I/O sits alongside word clock I/O, while two Thunderbolt 2 ports enable computer connection and daisy-chaining of up to iii interfaces. The four hybrid mic preamps do good from refined transformer circuitry and Rupert Neve Designs SILK processing, while DSP furnishings include the VCM 276 compressor, VCM EQ601, the Sweet Spot Morphing Aqueduct Strip and the REV-X reverb.
The Steinberg AXR4 oozes quality from every pore, making it a serious contender in the pro sound interfacing arena.
Read our full Steinberg AXR4 review
All-time audio interfaces: Buying advice
Do y'all demand an audio interface?
If y'all are a musician who wants to make peachy quality recordings and listen back to them on decent speakers, then you really need an sound interface. They allow you to record any audio into your computer or smart device – from strumming guitars and your singing through to a consummate ring or orchestra – and then mix that audio into a vocal in your DAW and hear the results dorsum through pro-grade speakers.
How many inputs and outputs exercise I need?
When choosing the best sound interface for your studio, the first thing you need to work out is the number and blazon of inputs and outputs y'all need. If y'all only want to plug in one microphone or instrument at a time – if you lot're a solo producer who generates most of their sounds inside the computer, this is probably you lot – but one or two inputs will be plenty, but if yous desire to record a live ring, yous'll need to think well-nigh much more than that. Multiple outputs can also exist useful if you want to fix separate headphone mixes (if you're a DJ, for instance) or send audio elsewhere for further processing.
What types of inputs and outputs practice I demand?
On well-nigh audio interfaces you'll typically notice both XLR and 1/4-inch inputs, often combined into combo connectors so that you tin plug mics, guitars, synths and the like into the aforementioned input. Many interfaces besides offer a phantom power selection, which is required if you want to use certain microphones.
Some audio interfaces besides have MIDI I/O on them, which could salve yous from having to buy a carve up interface for external MIDI gear. If you merely intend to employ a MIDI keyboard, though, retrieve that this could plug into one of your computer's other USB ports, so MIDI I/O might not exist an essential requirement.
How to connect your audio interface
Near audio interfaces connect to your computer by USB or Thunderbolt or by using a Lightning adaptor with iOS devices. The cable required for connectivity usually ships with the interface but non always with Thunderbolt 3 and Lightning, so do check what you get in the box.
Most interfaces are class-compliant, and then volition work out of the box – just plug them in and starting time using them straight away. Some come with actress software you lot will need to access some of their more detailed functions and routing. Many, especially mobile interfaces, are bus-powered so you don't have to plug a mains ability supply into them.
Specs e'er include the numbers of audio inputs (equally XLR or i/4-inch jack or a combination of the two) and audio outputs. Inputs indicate the number of instruments or microphones yous can connect up to record simultaneously. Bank check the interface has a phantom ability option if you desire to connect upwards a condenser mic which requires external power. The number of outputs refers to the number of connections available to your studio speakers or other hardware boxes, including outboard furnishings.
What is low latency recording?
Y'all'll discover that most contemporary audio interfaces offer a low-latency recording selection, which means you can stay in fourth dimension with your project when you're adding more tracks. Some interfaces also promise latency levels that are low enough to use effect plugins in 'real-fourth dimension' on the input as you lot record, while others have their own DSP processing built into them.
What should I wait to pay for an sound interface?
In the terminate, the best audio interface for yous will at least partly come up down to cost, and then you'll be pleased to know that our listing of recommendations in this guide covers a wide range from beginner to pro. We'd also recommend reading our guide focused specifically on the best budget audio interfaces if you accept less to spend.
Interfaces are serious pieces of kit that should continue the sound signal quality loftier throughout the recording process, simply you needn't pay serious money for them. If you lot are an in-the-box producer, you might merely need one input at any 1 time to record, plus a couple of outputs to your speakers. Even a singer/guitarist tin go away with just two inputs, and a decent 1 or 2-input/2-output sound interface just costs from around $/£50 up to $/£200. Add more than inputs and better quality preamps on these – which will give you a better quality audio recording – and you could pay anything from $/£200 to $/£700 for a medium-sized interface capable of recording all of the outputs from a band, for example.
Pro grade interfaces with fast connectivity, the ability to power software (see Universal Audio) and digital inputs and outputs tin tip into iv figures – sometimes up to $/£2,000 – only you might not demand whatever or all of the extras they offering. Many interfaces support an array of digital ins and outs similar ADAT and S/PDIF, for example, two digital standards you lot merely need to take into consideration if you take other sound gear with these inputs and outputs included.
What are the most popular audio interface brands?
There are many companies making audio interfaces but some brands that score consistently well in our reviews and we stand by in terms of build quality, features and value for money are Apogee, Audient, Focusrite, Native Instruments, Steinberg, SSL and Universal Audio.
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Source: https://www.musicradar.com/news/the-best-audio-interfaces
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