Top 30 Audio Interface Brands in 2024

The most popular brands for Audio Interface Includes Behringer, Focusrite, PreSonus, TASCAM, Roland, Steinberg, MOTU, Zoom, RME, IK Multimedia among many others.

1

Behringer

Popular Brand

Since 1989, Behringer has been engaged in the production of professional audio equipment like Microphones and Amplifiers. They make portable sound systems used in DJ and EDM, and their equipment can also be found in major studios worldwide. They are a German company and are considered one of the leaders in manufacturing music equipment. The brand offers performance and quality, and some highly renowned musicians and DJs use its products.

2

Focusrite

Popular Brand

Reducing the gap between an aspiring musician and their dream, Focusrite provides audio interfaces that are easy to use and record audio precisely the way it is. They strive to make it simpler to create and record music through PCs and Mac, thus giving sound to people's dreams, aspirations, and hobbies and making them more accessible. Having products for people of different skill sets, Focusrite also has sister organizations that help them achieve their mission.

3

PreSonus

Popular Brand

PreSonus is a maker of professional audio equipment based in St. Cloud, Minnesota, USA. Ernie and Gerhard Schmidt, two brothers, created the firm. Its focus on low-cost devices for home recording studios has made it one of the most well-known names in its industry. They've reached excellent music recording and mixing easier, quicker, and more enjoyable. Their product line includes professional audio interfaces, digital mixers, studio monitors, recording and editing software, USB and FireWire connectors, power conditioners, and more. They're honored to assist individuals and companies in creating great music.

4

TASCAM

Best Brand

TASCAM is a music industry pioneer because of its products' quality. They have a worldwide professional customer base that loves their audio applications and solutions. The company encapsulates the sound of modern technology. They were established in 1971, and since then, they have only worked on developing sound and music quality. TASCAM continues to pave the way for the future of the sound industry. They are exceptional in their field, and they continue to amaze people.

5

Roland

Best Brand

Roland has a long history of music industry innovation. It creates and manufactures electronic keyboards, synthesizers, and digital pianos with outstanding sound quality and unique features as one of the world's top makers of electronic musical instruments. The company's goods are offered through authorized dealers in over 100 countries. It specializes in the production of keyboards, synthesizers, and a variety of other electronic musical instruments. Its product lines include audio production and sound reinforcement equipment, electronics, and software.

6

Steinberg

Best Brand

Steinberg has been a lifestyle company for almost 20 years in Germany. Shower sets and basin mixers are their fortes. They feature a variety of bathroom accessories to make anyone's lavatory more luxurious. This high-quality, enduring device comes with a guarantee. The catalog is available in a variety of shades schemes. Its home spa generates gentle and soothing light reflections for anybody to enjoy—Anybody with a keen insight of style will like Steinberg.

7

MOTU

Best Brand

MOTU stands for 'Mark of the Unicorn' and is an engineering-driven music technology company. Its products help you in producing the music you are passionate about. They provide music-related computer software and hardware. It is well-known for maintaining a brilliant quality balance between its hardware and software. Its products include audio interfaces, audio software, MIDI interfaces, video interfaces, accessories, upgrades, etc.

8

Zoom

Best Brand

Zoomo is a renowned electric bike company offering bikes on lease to make local travel more accessible and cheaper. They...

9

RME

RME is a technical product design company. It offers reliable, robust, sustainable, and durable specialized products like convertors, mics, audio...

10

IK Multimedia

IK Multimedia took its roots in a small town in Italy. The town was small, but the minds were innovative,...

11

Apogee

Apogee Acoustics was initially based in Boston and was later rebranded in 2001 in Australia. It comprises a small group...

12

Native Instruments

Native Instruments combines technology and music. It is one of the leading manufacturers of hardware and software for Computer Based...

13

ESI

ESI is a significant manufacturer of revolutionary laser micro-production systems and component test systems used by electronics manufacturers worldwide to...

14

Line 6

Line 6 was founded as a maker of guitar effects and amplifier modeling devices. The idea behind this company is...

15

Audient

Since its establishment in 1997, Audient has worked to make professional audio quality easyily available to everyone using the best...

16

Avid

Avid Cycles is a family-run motorcycle parts and accessories shop that serves the upper desert. Avid Cycles, founded in 2010,...

17

Universal Audio

If you want to take your audio game to the next level, tune to Universal Audio to poduce the best...

18

Antelope Audio

Antelope Audio's extensive experience in the digital audio equipment industry has led to the development of several high-performance and distinctive...

19

TC Electronic

TC Electronic makes award-winning effects pedals and rack processors and some of the world's most inventive professional audio gear. Whether...

20

Lexicon

The leading edge of technology innovates both professional and consumer audio. Lexicon provides the first commercially available digital effects processor....

21

Solid State Logic

Music without the perfect system is like music without beats. So, to consider the best sound systems for a one-time...

22

Prism Sound

Sound quality is at its finest with the audio tools offered by Prism Sound. By providing various components, systems, and...

23

Alesis

Alesis is involved in the music industry. The company was established in 1980 by a music lover. They have been...

24

Arturia

Arturia will help you discover music with its curated instruments that enrich the sound your instruments produce. Their community embraces...

25

Korg

For nearly 50 years, Korg has been meeting the demands of musicians and music fans worldwide. Their products have evolved...

26

Akai

Akai Professional is a firm that creates unique, intuitive, and creative goods. The firm invented the first professional MPC workstation...

27

CEntrance

CEntrance, a Chicago-based company, excels at creating cutting-edge, portable devices with outstanding performance and sound quality while maintaining strict quality...

28

iConnectivity

iConnectivity creates hardware and software for artists, expanding their toolkit to computers and mobile devices. With its simple-to-use yet potent...

29

Hosa Technology

When passion meets innovation, that's when dreams come true. Hosa Technology is an American brand of digital and analog connection...

30

Rane

Rane commercial is an audio system software manufacturer. It is based in the U.S and makes audio accessories and control...

Audio Interface Buying Guide

Whether you are a music producer, podcaster, or musician, having a high-quality audio interface is an essential piece of equipment. Audio interfaces are devices that convert analog signals to digital signals and vice versa. They provide a way to connect your instruments, microphones, and other audio devices to your computer or recording setup. With so many options available on the market, it can be tough to choose the right one. This guide will help you make a more informed decision when selecting an audio interface.

Types of Audio Interfaces

Audio interfaces come in several different types, each with their own set of features and capabilities. The three main types of audio interfaces are:

  • USB Audio Interfaces: These are the most common type of audio interface and connect to your computer via USB. They offer a simple, affordable solution for those starting out in music production or podcasting.
  • Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces: These interfaces connect to your computer's Thunderbolt port and offer faster data transfer rates than USB interfaces. They are generally more expensive but provide higher-quality audio and lower latency.
  • PCI/PCIe Audio Interfaces: These interfaces connect directly to your computer's motherboard, offering the lowest latency and highest performance. They are typically used in professional recording studios, where the highest-quality audio is essential.

Key Considerations

When selecting an audio interface, there are several key considerations to keep in mind. These include:

Audio Quality

The quality of the audio interface's converters is one of the most important factors to consider. The converters are responsible for converting analog signals (such as those from a microphone or instrument) to digital signals that your computer can process. The higher the quality of the converters, the better your recordings will sound. Look for an audio interface with high-quality converters such as those made by AKM or Cirrus Logic.

Number of Inputs and Outputs

The number of inputs and outputs on an audio interface will vary depending on the model. If you are a solo artist or podcaster, you may only need one or two inputs. However, if you are recording a full band, you will need more inputs to accommodate all the instruments. Consider how many input and output channels you will need and look for an interface that provides enough flexibility for your needs.

Connectivity

Most audio interfaces connect to your computer via USB or Thunderbolt. However, some interfaces also offer additional connectivity options, such as MIDI or S/PDIF. If you plan on using external MIDI controllers or synthesizers, look for an interface with built-in MIDI connectivity. Similarly, if you work with digital audio devices, an interface with S/PDIF connectivity can be useful.

Latency

Latency is the delay between the time you play a note or speak into a microphone and the time you hear the sound through your headphones or speakers. Low latency is essential for performing live or recording multiple tracks simultaneously without delay. Look for an audio interface with low latency, ideally below 10ms.

Compatibility

Ensure that the audio interface you select is compatible with your computer's operating system. Most modern interfaces support Windows and macOS, but some older models may only work with specific operating systems. Additionally, make sure your recording software is compatible with the interface you choose.

Budget

Audio interfaces come in a wide range of prices, from less than $50 to several thousand dollars. Consider your budget and the features you need when selecting an interface. While it can be tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in a high-quality interface will provide better sound quality and more features in the long run.

Additional Features

Some audio interfaces offer additional features that can be useful for specific applications. These include:

Phantom Power

Phantom power is necessary for condenser microphones, which require a small electrical charge to function. Look for an interface that provides phantom power with an on/off switch for each input.

Headphone Outputs

Headphone outputs are essential for monitoring your recordings in real-time. Look for an interface that provides multiple headphone outputs with independent volume controls.

Preamps

Preamps are used to amplify the signal from your microphone or instrument before it is converted to a digital signal. Preamps can significantly impact the quality of your recordings, so look for an interface with high-quality preamps from reputable manufacturers such as Focusrite or PreSonus.

Software Bundles

Some audio interfaces come with software bundles that include recording software, virtual instruments, and effects plugins. These bundles can be a great value and provide everything you need to get started with recording and production.

Top Audio Interface Brands

There are several high-quality audio interface brands on the market. Here are a few to consider:

Focusrite

Focusrite is a well-known brand for audio interfaces and preamps. Their Scarlett series is a popular choice for beginners and professionals alike, offering high-quality audio and easy-to-use software.

Universal Audio

Universal Audio is known for their high-end audio interfaces and plugins, which are used in some of the world's top recording studios. Their Apollo series interfaces offer exceptional sound quality and low latency.

PreSonus

PreSonus offers a range of audio interfaces for home studios and professional recording setups. Their Studio series interfaces are a great value for those on a budget, while their Quantum series offers top-of-the-line performance for professional use.

Steinberg

Steinberg is well-known for their Cubase recording software, but they also produce high-quality audio interfaces. Their UR series interfaces offer low-latency performance and high-quality preamps.

Conclusion

An audio interface is an essential piece of equipment for any musician, podcaster, or music producer. When selecting an interface, consider factors such as audio quality, number of inputs and outputs, connectivity, latency, compatibility, and budget. Additional features such as phantom power, headphone outputs, preamps, and software bundles can also impact your decision. Look for high-quality brands such as Focusrite, Universal Audio, PreSonus, and Steinberg to ensure you get the best audio interface for your needs.

Categories Similar to Audio Interface

Top similar topics to Audio Interface Includes Digital Mixing Console, Rack Mount, Recording Studio among many others.