
Too Many Audio Interfaces? Here's How to Choose the Right One
Discover five key factors to consider when selecting the perfect audio interface for your needs.
Last updated 3 weeks ago. Automatically generated content.


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Audio inputs determine the types of connections available on an audio interface, affecting its compatibility with various audio equipment. Choosing the right inputs is crucial for ensuring seamless integration with microphones, instruments, or MIDI devices, thereby enhancing recording and production capabilities.
Popular options (you can select more than one)
XLR/6.3mm Combo
Typical price
110.– to 340.–Features a combination input that supports both XLR and 6.3mm connections.
Ideal for versatile setups, accommodating both microphones and instruments without needing additional adapters.
Bestseller
XLR/6.3mm combo (2x)
Typical price
140.– to 300.–Provides two combo inputs, allowing simultaneous connection of multiple devices.
Perfect for small studios or live performances, enabling easy management of multiple audio sources.
Bestseller
6.3 mm jack (2x)
Typical price
140.– to 470.–Includes two 6.3mm jack inputs designed for instruments or line-level equipment.
Great for musicians requiring direct instrument connections, offering straightforward integration with guitars or keyboards.
Bestseller
MIDI (1x)
Typical price
140.– to 410.–Offers a single MIDI input for connecting MIDI controllers or synthesizers.
Essential for electronic music producers, facilitating communication between digital instruments and your audio interface.
Bestseller
The number of inputs on an audio interface determines how many instruments or microphones you can connect simultaneously, impacting recording flexibility and workflow. Choosing the right number of inputs is crucial for accommodating your recording needs, whether you're working on solo projects or larger sessions with multiple performers.
Popular options
1 - 2
Typical price
94.– to 260.–Suitable for solo artists or small home studios, allowing for basic recording setups.
Ideal for simple projects, offering easy setup and minimal complexity.
Bestseller
3 - 8
Typical price
180.– to 550.–Provides more connectivity options for small bands or multi-instrumentalists.
Offers versatility in recording different sources simultaneously, enhancing productivity.
Bestseller
9 - 16
Typical price
360.– to 1800.–Designed for professional studios or larger recording sessions, accommodating multiple inputs.
Optimal for complex setups, enabling detailed capturing of various instruments and microphones.
Bestseller
Connection type determines how the audio interface connects to your computer or device, impacting data transfer speed and compatibility. Choosing the right connection type ensures optimal performance and seamless integration with your existing setup.
Popular options (you can select more than one)
USB
Typical price
120.– to 400.–Widely compatible with most computers and devices, offering convenient plug-and-play functionality.
Ideal for home studios and portable setups, providing reliable performance without requiring additional hardware.
Bestseller
Thunderbolt
Typical price
1400.– to 3400.–Delivers high-speed data transfer for demanding audio tasks, ensuring minimal latency and high-quality sound.
Best suited for professional studios and users working with large track counts or high-resolution audio.
Bestseller
PCI-Express
Typical price
1200.– to 1400.–Installed directly inside the computer, offering the highest data transfer rates and stability.
Perfect for advanced users seeking maximum performance and efficiency in a dedicated studio environment.
Bestseller
Audio outputs refer to the ports available on an audio interface to connect headphones, speakers, or other audio equipment. They are crucial as they determine the types and number of devices you can connect, impacting the flexibility and setup of your audio environment.
Popular options (you can select more than one)
Headphones Out (1x)
Typical price
85.– to 300.–Provides a single headphone output for personal monitoring.
Ideal for solo recording sessions where only one person needs to listen to the audio.
Bestseller
6.3 mm stereo pair (1x)
Typical price
100.– to 200.–Offers a single pair of 6.3 mm outputs for connecting to external speakers or amplifiers.
Suitable for connecting to professional audio equipment, delivering high-quality sound output.
Bestseller
Coaxial S/PDIF (1x)
Typical price
400.– to 1100.–Includes a single coaxial S/PDIF output for digital audio connections.
Perfect for connecting to devices that require digital audio transmission, ensuring minimal signal loss.
Bestseller
Headphones Out (2x)
Typical price
200.– to 670.–Provides two headphone outputs for multiple listeners.
Great for collaborative work where two users need to monitor audio simultaneously.
Bestseller
The brand factor in audio interfaces is crucial as it can influence sound quality, reliability, and user experience. Brands like Focusrite, Audient, and MOTU are known for their unique strengths, such as preamp quality and software integration, guiding customers to make informed decisions based on their specific needs.
Popular brands (you can select more than one)
Focusrite
Renowned for high-quality preamps and ease of use.
Perfect for both beginners and professionals seeking reliable performance.
Bestseller
IK Multimedia
Specializes in compact and versatile audio interfaces.
Ideal for mobile musicians and podcasters needing portable solutions.
Bestseller
MOTU
Known for high-end interfaces with advanced connectivity options.
Great for professional studios requiring robust and versatile systems.
Bestseller
Audient
Celebrated for its high-quality console-grade preamps.
Offers exceptional sound quality, making it suitable for professional recordings.
Bestseller
M-Audio
Focuses on affordability and user-friendly interfaces.
Suitable for beginners and home studios looking for cost-effective options.
Bestseller









