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10 Best Cheap Audio Interfaces 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
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 USB Audio Interface stands out as an excellent choice for musicians, vocalists, and producers looking for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing sound quality. With two inputs, it allows users to connect both a microphone and an instrument simultaneously, making it versatile for different recording settings. The audio quality is impressive, featuring a 120dB dynamic range and high-fidelity converters that rival more expensive models, providing a studio-quality sound for home recordings. The addition of the Air mode enhances vocals and guitars, giving your tracks a professional finish.
Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,168
Number of Inputs and Outputs
Build Quality and Portability
Most important from
51826 reviews
#2
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 is a solid choice for musicians, podcasters, and producers looking for a budget-friendly audio interface. With two high-quality inputs, it excels at allowing guitarists and vocalists to record their sounds with clarity, thanks to the strong mic pre-amps and the ability to engage an Air mode that enhances recording quality. It supports impressive audio quality, featuring 24-bit/192kHz recording capability, which is excellent for capturing detailed sound without distortion or clipping. The low-noise balanced outputs ensure clean playback, making it suitable for critical listening as well.
Rating
9.6
Number of Inputs and Outputs
Preamp Quality
Build Quality and Portability
Most important from
51826 reviews
#3
Mackie ProFX10 Go Battery-powered 10-channel Mixer with USB and Enhanced Effects
The Mackie ProFX10 Go is a versatile battery-powered mixer that doubles as a 2-in/4-out USB audio interface, making it an attractive choice for those seeking affordable audio solutions. With 10 channels and 4 mic preamps, it offers a decent number of inputs and outputs for its price range, suitable for small gigs or home studio setups. Audio quality is supported by USB-C connectivity, which is a modern standard.
Rating
9.4
Audio Quality (Bit Depth and Sample Rate)
Build Quality and Portability
Most important from
2162 reviews
Top 10 Best Cheap Audio Interfaces 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
9.8 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
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
Number of Inputs and Outputs: 2 inputs
Audio Quality (Bit Depth and Sample Rate): 120dB dynamic range
Connectivity: USB-C
Preamp Quality: good
Build Quality and Portability: compact
Chosen by 1168 this week
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Guitarists, Vocalists, Podcasters or Producers to record and playback studio quality sound
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Guitarists, Vocalists, Podcasters or Producers to record and playback studio quality sound
Number of Inputs and Outputs: 2
Audio Quality (Bit Depth and Sample Rate): 24-bit/192kHz
Connectivity: USB, USB-C
Preamp Quality: strong pre-amps, Air mode
Build Quality and Portability: compact, USB-powered
Mackie ProFX10 Go Battery-powered 10-channel Mixer with USB and Enhanced Effects
Mackie ProFX10 Go Battery-powered 10-channel Mixer with USB and Enhanced Effects
Number of Inputs and Outputs: 2-in/4-out
Connectivity: USB-C, Bluetooth
Phantom Power: Yes
Build Quality and Portability: Portable, 4.9 pounds
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
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
Audio Quality (Bit Depth and Sample Rate): 24-bit, 192kHz
Connectivity: USB-C
Phantom Power: Available
Preamp Quality: 69dB gain
Build Quality and Portability: Aluminum, 8.04 lbs, 17.37x10.21x1.83 in
Universal Audio Volt 1 USB Recording Studio Audio Interface
Universal Audio Volt 1 USB Recording Studio Audio Interface
Number of Inputs and Outputs: 2 channels
Audio Quality (Bit Depth and Sample Rate): 24-bit/192 kHz
Connectivity: USB
Phantom Power: Included
Build Quality and Portability: Solid, portable, 1.2 pounds
Related Products
M-Audio M-Track Solo – USB Audio Interface for Recording, Streaming and Podcasting with XLR, Line and DI Inputs, Plus a Software Suite Included
M-Audio M-Track Solo – USB Audio Interface for Recording, Streaming and Podcasting with XLR, Line and DI Inputs, Plus a Software Suite Included
Number of Inputs and Outputs: 1 XLR/Line input, 1 Line input
Audio Quality (Bit Depth and Sample Rate): 48 kHz
Connectivity: USB
Phantom Power: Yes
Latency: Zero latency monitoring
Preamp Quality: Transparent Crystal Preamp
Build Quality and Portability: Compact and lightweight design
TASCAM DR-40X 4-Track Portable Handheld Field Recorder — 2 XLR/TRS Inputs, USB Audio Interface, Dual Adjustable Microphones for Stereo Recording of Music, Audio for Video and Podcasting
TASCAM DR-40X 4-Track Portable Handheld Field Recorder — 2 XLR/TRS Inputs, USB Audio Interface, Dual Adjustable Microphones for Stereo Recording of Music, Audio for Video and Podcasting
Number of Inputs and Outputs: 2 XLR/TRS jacks
Connectivity: USB 2.0
Phantom Power: Yes
Latency: Generally good
Preamp Quality: Sufficient gain for audio capture
Build Quality and Portability: Lightweight and portable
Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface Recording, Songwriting, & Streaming High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, With Transparent Playback
Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface Recording, Songwriting, & Streaming High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, With Transparent Playback
Number of Inputs and Outputs: 8
Audio Quality (Bit Depth and Sample Rate): 24-bit/192 kHz
Connectivity: USB-C
Phantom Power: Yes
Latency: Low
Preamp Quality: Excellent
Build Quality and Portability: Aluminum, 1.87 x 8.27 x 5.89 inches
PreSonus AudioBox 96 25th Anniversary USB Audio Interface with Studio One Artist DAW Recording Software
PreSonus AudioBox 96 25th Anniversary USB Audio Interface with Studio One Artist DAW Recording Software
Number of Inputs and Outputs: 2 channels
Audio Quality (Bit Depth and Sample Rate): 24-bit/96 kHz
Connectivity: USB 2.0
Phantom Power: +48V
Latency: Zero latency monitoring
Preamp Quality: Class-A mic preamps
Build Quality and Portability: Solid build, 2.01 pounds
#10
7.3 score
Tascam DR-05X Stereo Handheld Digital Audio Portable Recorder and USB Audio Interface, Pro Field, AV, Music, Dictation Recorder
Tascam DR-05X Stereo Handheld Digital Audio Portable Recorder and USB Audio Interface, Pro Field, AV, Music, Dictation Recorder
Connectivity: USB 2.0, 3.5mm jack
Build Quality and Portability: Lightweight, portable
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Buying Guide for the Best Cheap Audio Interfaces
Choosing the right audio interface can significantly enhance your recording and sound production experience. An audio interface is a device that allows you to connect microphones, instruments, and other audio gear to your computer. It converts analog signals into digital data that your computer can process. When selecting an audio interface, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your needs and provides the best sound quality for your projects.Number of Inputs and OutputsThe number of inputs and outputs on an audio interface determines how many devices you can connect simultaneously. Inputs are used for connecting microphones, instruments, and other audio sources, while outputs are for connecting speakers, headphones, and other monitoring equipment. If you only need to record one or two sources at a time, a basic interface with 2 inputs and 2 outputs may suffice. However, if you plan to record multiple instruments or a full band, look for interfaces with more inputs and outputs to accommodate your needs.
Audio Quality (Bit Depth and Sample Rate)Audio quality is measured by bit depth and sample rate. Bit depth affects the dynamic range of your recordings, with higher bit depths providing more detail and less noise. Sample rate determines how many samples of audio are taken per second, with higher rates capturing more detail. Common bit depths are 16-bit and 24-bit, while sample rates typically range from 44.1 kHz to 192 kHz. For most home recording needs, a 24-bit depth and a sample rate of 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz are sufficient. Higher values are generally used for professional recording and mastering.
ConnectivityConnectivity refers to how the audio interface connects to your computer. Common connection types include USB, Thunderbolt, and FireWire. USB interfaces are the most common and are compatible with most computers. Thunderbolt offers faster data transfer rates and lower latency, making it ideal for high-performance applications, but it is typically more expensive and requires a compatible port. FireWire is less common but still used in some professional setups. Choose the connection type that matches your computer's ports and your performance needs.
Phantom PowerPhantom power is a feature that provides power to condenser microphones, which require an external power source to operate. This is typically supplied at 48 volts through the XLR input. If you plan to use condenser microphones, ensure that the audio interface has phantom power capability. This feature is essential for capturing high-quality vocal and instrument recordings with condenser mics.
LatencyLatency is the delay between the input signal and the output signal. Low latency is crucial for real-time monitoring and recording, as high latency can cause noticeable delays that disrupt the recording process. Look for interfaces with low-latency drivers and direct monitoring features, which allow you to hear the input signal directly without processing delays. This is especially important for musicians who need to monitor their performance in real-time.
Preamp QualityPreamps amplify the signal from microphones and instruments before it is converted to digital. The quality of the preamps can significantly affect the clarity and warmth of your recordings. Higher-quality preamps provide cleaner gain with less noise and distortion. If you are recording vocals or acoustic instruments, prioritize interfaces with good preamp quality to ensure the best sound reproduction.
Build Quality and PortabilityThe build quality of an audio interface affects its durability and longevity. Metal chassis and sturdy knobs are indicators of a well-built interface. If you plan to use the interface in different locations, consider its size and weight for portability. Compact and lightweight interfaces are easier to transport and set up in various environments, making them ideal for mobile recording setups.