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10 Best Audio Interface For Mac 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.8 score

Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Guitarists, Vocalists, Podcasters or Producers to record and playback studio quality sound

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface is a solid choice for guitarists, vocalists, podcasters, and music producers looking to achieve studio-quality recordings on their Mac. One of its standout features is the high-performance mic preamps that provide clear and vibrant audio. The Air mode option is particularly useful for adding brilliance to acoustic instruments, which can be a big plus for musicians seeking that extra clarity in their recordings. With 24-bit/192kHz recording capabilities, the Scarlett Solo ensures that your sound retains its integrity during both recording and playback, making it ideal for professional-grade projects.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,465
Number of Inputs and Outputs
Preamps

Most important from
27439 reviews

Number of Inputs and Outputs
Handles output and input extremely well, making it versatile for switching between connected devices.
Preamps
Works well on Linux with kernel 6.8+ and can be configured for various setups, including custom microphone amplification.
#2
9.6 score

Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB Audio Interface, for the Guitarist, Vocalist, or Producer — High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, and All the Software You Need to Record

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen is a solid choice for Mac users looking to record vocals and guitar with studio-quality sound. It offers 2 inputs (one for a mic and one for an instrument) and USB connectivity, which is simple and compatible with most Macs. The preamps and converters are high-quality, delivering a wide 120dB dynamic range that captures detailed audio. The improved Air mode adds brightness and presence, helping your recordings stand out. It also supports phantom power, so you can use condenser microphones if needed. Latency is generally low with USB interfaces like this, making real-time monitoring possible without distracting delays.

Rating
9.6
Number of Inputs and Outputs
Connection Type
Preamps

Most important from
1218 reviews

Number of Inputs and Outputs
Offers flexible and configurable input/output handling, allowing custom setups and mixing that can be saved and reused.
Connection Type
Supports reliable USB power without the need for an external adapter, which helps minimize noise issues related to power sources.
Preamps
Provides straightforward, high-quality recording for vocals and instruments, making it ideal for beginners and home studios.
Converters
Delivers studio-quality sound with very low noise and distortion, closely matching higher-end models at an affordable price.
Software Compatibility
Works seamlessly across multiple platforms including Mac and Linux, though setup details require some research.
#3
9.4 score

M-Audio M-Track Duo – USB Audio Interface for Recording, Streaming and Podcasting with Dual XLR, Line & DI Inputs, plus a Software Suite Included

The M-Audio M-Track Duo is a versatile and user-friendly USB audio interface that is well-suited for recording, streaming, and podcasting on Mac. It features two combo XLR/Line/Instrument inputs, making it ideal for capturing vocals, guitars, and other instruments. With 48 kHz audio resolution, it ensures high-quality recordings. The inclusion of phantom power means it can accommodate condenser microphones, which is a great plus for podcasters and vocalists. The Crystal Preamps enhance the sound quality, ensuring clear and transparent audio capture.

Rating
9.4
Number of Inputs and Outputs
Software Compatibility

Most important from
5477 reviews

Number of Inputs and Outputs
The interface blends all sound inputs into one output, which might be a limitation for some users.
Software Compatibility
A superb entry-level interface that works great with BandLab and Reaper, making it highly useful for recording vocals, guitar, and bass.

Top 10 Best Audio Interface For Mac 2025 in the United States

M-Audio M-Track Duo – USB Audio Interface for Recording, Streaming and Podcasting with Dual XLR, Line & DI Inputs, plus a Software Suite Included

Number of Inputs and Outputs: 2 inputs, 2 outputs
Connection Type: USB
Preamps: Crystal Preamps
Converters: 48 kHz resolution
Phantom Power: Yes
Latency: Zero latency monitoring
Software Compatibility: Compatible with Windows / Mac OS

Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen USB Audio Interface, for Multitrack Recording, Music Production and Podcasting — High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, and All the Software You Need to Record

Number of Inputs and Outputs: 18 inputs, 20 outputs
Connection Type: USB-C
Preamps: 8 high-quality preamps, 2 Hi-Z inputs
Converters: 24-bit, 192kHz
Phantom Power: Supports condenser microphones
Latency: Good, depends on computer specs
Software Compatibility: Mac, Windows, iOS, all audio software

Universal Audio Apollo Solo Heritage Edition, APLS-HE

Number of Inputs and Outputs: Limited input and output channels
Connection Type: Bus-powered
Preamps: Unison mic preamp
Latency: Near-zero latency
Software Compatibility: Pro Tools, Ableton, Cubase, Logic, LUNA

PreSonus AudioBox 96 25th Anniversary USB Audio Interface with Studio One Artist DAW Recording Software

Number of Inputs and Outputs: 2
Connection Type: USB 2.0
Preamps: 2 Class-A mic preamps
Converters: 24-bit/96 kHz
Phantom Power: +48V
Software Compatibility: Studio One Artist, Ableton Live Lite

IK Multimedia iRig HD 2 guitar audio interface for iPhone, iPad, Mac, iOS and PC with USB-C, Lightning and USB cables and 24-bit, 96 kHz music recording

Number of Inputs and Outputs: 1 input, 1 output
Connection Type: USB-C, Lightning, USB
Preamps: Headphone output with preamp
Converters: 96kHz, 24-bit conversion
Latency: Generally good
Software Compatibility: AmpliTube, AmpliTube 5 SE, TONEX SE

MOTU M2 USB-C Audio Interface

Number of Inputs and Outputs: 2 in, 2 out
Connection Type: USB-C
Preamps: -129 dBu EIN
Converters: ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC
Latency: 2.5 ms
Software Compatibility: Windows, Mac
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Buying Guide for the Best Audio Interface For Mac

Choosing the right audio interface for your Mac can significantly enhance your music production, podcasting, or any other audio-related tasks. An audio interface is a device that allows you to connect microphones, instruments, and other audio sources to your computer, providing better sound quality and more input/output options than the built-in sound card. When selecting an audio interface, consider your specific needs, such as the number of inputs and outputs, the type of connections, and the quality of the preamps and converters. Understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision and ensure that the audio interface you choose is the best fit for your requirements.
Number of Inputs and OutputsThe number of inputs and outputs on an audio interface determines how many audio sources you can connect and how many separate audio signals you can send out. This is important because it affects your ability to record multiple instruments or microphones simultaneously. If you are a solo musician or podcaster, a simple interface with 2 inputs and 2 outputs might suffice. However, if you plan to record a band or need to connect multiple devices, you might need an interface with 8 or more inputs and outputs. Consider your current and future needs when deciding on the number of inputs and outputs.
Connection TypeThe connection type refers to how the audio interface connects to your Mac. Common connection types include USB, Thunderbolt, and FireWire. USB interfaces are widely compatible and generally more affordable, making them a good choice for most users. Thunderbolt interfaces offer faster data transfer rates and lower latency, which can be beneficial for professional audio work. FireWire is less common but still used in some older interfaces. Choose a connection type that matches your Mac's available ports and your performance needs.
PreampsPreamps are built-in amplifiers that boost the signal from microphones and instruments to a usable level. The quality of the preamps can significantly impact the clarity and warmth of your recordings. High-quality preamps provide clean gain with minimal noise, which is crucial for professional-sounding recordings. If you are recording vocals or acoustic instruments, prioritize interfaces with high-quality preamps. For basic recording tasks, standard preamps may be sufficient.
ConvertersConverters in an audio interface are responsible for converting analog signals to digital (A/D) and digital signals to analog (D/A). The quality of these converters affects the accuracy and detail of your recordings and playback. Higher-quality converters provide better sound fidelity, which is important for professional audio work. Look for interfaces with high-resolution converters (24-bit/96kHz or higher) if you need the best possible sound quality. For casual use, standard converters (16-bit/44.1kHz) may be adequate.
Phantom PowerPhantom power is a feature that supplies power to condenser microphones, which require an external power source to operate. This is important if you plan to use condenser mics for recording vocals or instruments. Most audio interfaces include phantom power, but it's essential to check if the interface you are considering has this feature. If you only use dynamic microphones, which do not require phantom power, this may not be a critical factor for you.
LatencyLatency refers to the delay between the input signal (e.g., your voice or instrument) and the output signal (e.g., what you hear through your headphones). Low latency is crucial for real-time monitoring and recording, as high latency can be distracting and make it difficult to perform. Interfaces with faster connection types (like Thunderbolt) and efficient drivers typically offer lower latency. If you need to monitor your recordings in real-time, prioritize interfaces with low latency.
Software CompatibilitySoftware compatibility ensures that the audio interface works seamlessly with your Mac and the digital audio workstation (DAW) software you use. Most interfaces are compatible with popular DAWs like Logic Pro, GarageBand, and Ableton Live, but it's always good to check. Some interfaces come with bundled software, which can be a bonus if you are just starting. Ensure that the interface you choose is compatible with your preferred software to avoid any workflow interruptions.

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