October 2024

Audio Recording Interfaces: MetaRanking

This page highlights the aggregate summary of audio recording interfaces rankings posted by key online experts, as of October 2024.

Summary

On 16 Oct 2024, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 84 audio interface endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.

58 audio interfaces were endorsed in total, only 15 made it into this month's ranking. (ReviewFinder requires a minimum of 2 endorsements to be included)

As of 16 Oct 2024, Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 takes the cake as the most critically-acclaimed audio interface with 4 expert endorsements. 3 experts out of 4 recommended it as the '#1 audio interface' this month.

Brand breakdown
Show all brands

Price breakdown
As can be seen in the chart below, lowest high-ranking audio recording interfaces start at $35 (Behringer U-Phoria UM2) and go up to $3439 (Lynx Aurora (n)). Median audio interface costs $269.95 (Motu M4).
$35
$3439

At a glance - October Ranking

Scroll horizontally to browse this ranking table
Rank Change Price Audio Interface
producelikeapro.com
soundref.com
Wirecutter
Musician on a Mission
Sweetwater
Your Guitar Brain
EDM Sauce
Music Radar
bandpioneer.com
hollyland.com
1
- $200
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 audio interface is a versatile and reliable device with low latency levels, upgraded preamp design, and a new Air mode that enhances high-end detail, making it a great choice for solo artists and mobile recording.
-
-
1
2
-
1
-
-
-
1
2
- $170
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen
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1
-
-
-
-
-
1
1
-
3
- Check price
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96
The PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is a versatile and reliable audio interface with low latency, high-quality mic preamps, and compatibility with almost all recording software, making it an excellent choice for musicians, podcasters, and other audio professionals.
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-
-
1
15
-
4
-
3
3
4
- $179
UA Volt 2
The UA Volt 2 audio interface is a versatile and high-quality device with low latency, two preamps based on the classic Universal Audio 610 tube preamp, and essential audio software, making it a reliable option for recording musicians, podcasters, and streamers.
3
-
3
-
-
-
-
-
2
-
5
- $200
Motu M2
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4
-
-
-
7
-
-
5
-
6
- $269
Universal Audio Volt 276
The Universal Audio Volt 276 audio interface is a versatile and high-quality option for recording and playback needs, offering a range of input and output options, vintage and 76 compressor buttons, and a class-leading 24-bit/192 kHz audio conversion.
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7
4
-
9
-
-
-
-
-
7
- $250
Solid State Logic SSL2+
The Solid State Logic SSL2+ audio interface is a versatile and high-quality option for musicians, podcasters, and content creators, offering a range of input and output options, high-quality preamps, low-latency input monitoring, and powerful digital processing tools.
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6
-
-
11
-
-
7
-
-
8
- $649
Apogee Duet 3
The Apogee Duet 3 audio interface is a versatile and high-quality solution for capturing and monitoring audio, offering a comprehensive set of input and output options, low-latency performance, and onboard hardware DSP processing.
10
-
-
-
17
3
-
-
-
-
9
- $798
Universal Audio Apollo Twin X
The Universal Audio Apollo Twin X audio interface is highly praised for its versatile input/output options, low latency, top-notch preamp quality, powerful DSP processing capabilities, and compatibility with various software and operating systems, making it a recommended choice for home studios, project studios, and professional recording environments.
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-
-
-
2
-
-
4
-
-
10
- $109
Behringer UMC204HD
The Behringer UMC204HD audio interface is a versatile and reliable device that offers high-quality sound, low latency, and a range of input and output options, making it a practical choice for musicians, podcasters, and content creators.
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3
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
5
14
- Check price
Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII
The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII is a versatile and high-quality audio interface suitable for professional recording studios, home studios, and musicians who demand the best in preamp quality, offering a range of input and output options for recording and playback, extremely low latency levels, and powerful DSP processing capabilities.
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-
-
8
-
-
-
-
-
2
15
- $999
RME Babyface Pro FS
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2
-
-
13
-
-
-
-
-
16
- $2799
Universal Audio Apollo x8p
8
-
-
-
8
-
-
-
-
-
17
- Check price
IK Multimedia AXE I/O
-
-
-
-
18
-
-
5
-
-
18
- $270
Motu M4
The Motu M4 audio interface is a versatile and reliable 4x4 USB-C interface suitable for a wide range of recording and playback needs, with low latency levels, clean and transparent preamps, and strong compatibility with various operating systems and major DAWs, making it an excellent choice for musicians, podcasters, and content creators who require a reliable and affordable audio interface with advanced features.
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-
-
-
19
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-
9
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-

Audio Interface
#10 $109 Behringer UMC204HD
#2 $169.99 Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen
#4 $179 UA Volt 2
#5 $199.95 Motu M2
#1 $199.99 Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
#7 $249.99 Solid State Logic SSL2+
#6 $269 Universal Audio Volt 276
#18 $269.95 Motu M4
#8 $649 Apogee Duet 3
#9 $798 Universal Audio Apollo Twin X
#15 $999 RME Babyface Pro FS
#16 $2799 Universal Audio Apollo x8p

We ranked Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 #1 in October 2024 because:

  • 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best audio recording interfaces” rankings.
  • Out of those, 3 experts ranked Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 as #1.
Expert Consensus
(as of 19 May 2023)
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 audio interface is a versatile and reliable device with low latency levels, upgraded preamp design, and a new Air mode that enhances high-end detail, making it a great choice for solo artists and mobile recording.
Critic endorsements:
Wirecutter

Best for musicians

Go to ranking

Musician on a Mission

Recommended for Solo Artists and Mobile Recording

Go to ranking

Your Guitar Brain

Best for: Budget Buy

Go to ranking

hollyland.com

The sound quality is excellent for the price point. Vocals come through crisp, and instruments have a nice warmth to them.
Build quality feels solid, and the design is user-friendly, which is crucial when you’re just dipping your toes into audio recording.
It’s powered by the USB bus, so there’s no need for an external power supply, which is less clutter on your desk.
Includes a suite of recording software, which could be a great starting point for newcomers.

It’s got only two inputs, so if you’re planning to record a full band, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
The USB-C connection is great, but you might need to update your cables if you have an older computer

Go to ranking

We ranked Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen #2 in October 2024 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best audio recording interfaces” rankings.
  • Out of those, 3 experts ranked Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen as #1.
Critic endorsements:
soundref.com

Overall best audio interface

High spec preamps and convertors
Value for money
Simple to use, with intuitive layout
Auto Gain, Clip Safe and Loopback

No 5-pin MIDI socket

Go to ranking

Music Radar

The Best Audio Interface For Recording At Home

Compact size, rugged build
Excellent quality preamps
Great value for money
Fantastic driver performance

Certain functions rely on software
We'd prefer combi inputs

Go to ranking

bandpioneer.com

Go to ranking

Methodology: combine opinions of key experts

Identify Experts

We identify key publishers and experts that consistently review and recommend audio recording interfaces.

Capture Rankings

For each publisher we find a currently recommended "top 10" list of audio recording interfaces, it must be updated in the last 9 months.

Aggregate Rankings

We put all those lists together and aggregate them. The more frequently a product is recommended, the higher it is in our ranking

Experts chosen for October 2024 ranking

We ranked PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 #3 in October 2024 because:

  • 5 independent experts mentioned it in their “best audio recording interfaces” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 as #1.
Expert Consensus
(as of 20 May 2023)
The PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is a versatile and reliable audio interface with low latency, high-quality mic preamps, and compatibility with almost all recording software, making it an excellent choice for musicians, podcasters, and other audio professionals.
Critic endorsements:
Musician on a Mission

Recommended for Solo Artists and Mobile Recording

Go to ranking

Sweetwater

Value-packed interface perfect for beginners
Includes Studio One Artist DAW
2 combo inputs accommodate mics and instruments
5-pin MIDI I/O for connecting older MIDI devices

Channels share phantom power; for individual phantom power, check out the MOTU M2 in this article
Headphone jack is located on the back; the PreSonus AudioBox iTwo has a front-panel headphone jack

Go to ranking

EDM Sauce

Includes free downloading of more than 6 GB of third-party resources
Has high-performance instrument inputs
Features zero-latency monitoring

May face some compatibility issues with various software

Go to ranking

bandpioneer.com

Go to ranking

hollyland.com

The solid build makes it quite durable for travel and regular use.
It’s simple to set up, appealing to those who may not have extensive tech experience.
The audio quality produced gives more expensive interfaces a run for their money.
Can be very portable due to its small size, making it a versatile choice for on-the-go recording

The preamps are decent, but might lack the depth and warmth provided by higher-end models.
It might not offer advanced features sought after by seasoned professionals.
Limited inputs may be a hindrance for larger recording sessions

Go to ranking

We ranked UA Volt 2 #4 in October 2024 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best audio recording interfaces” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 19 May 2023)
The UA Volt 2 audio interface is a versatile and high-quality device with low latency, two preamps based on the classic Universal Audio 610 tube preamp, and essential audio software, making it a reliable option for recording musicians, podcasters, and streamers.
Critic endorsements:
producelikeapro.com

Go to ranking

Wirecutter

If you need a built-in MIDI interface

Go to ranking

bandpioneer.com

Go to ranking

We ranked Motu M2 #5 in October 2024 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best audio recording interfaces” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
soundref.com

Best interface for audio quality

Quiet clean preamps
On/off switch
Individual phantom power switches
Clear LCD metering

Go to ranking

Your Guitar Brain

Best for: Budget & Travel

Go to ranking

bandpioneer.com

Go to ranking

We ranked Universal Audio Volt 276 #6 in October 2024 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best audio recording interfaces” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 12 May 2023)
The Universal Audio Volt 276 audio interface is a versatile and high-quality option for recording and playback needs, offering a range of input and output options, vintage and 76 compressor buttons, and a class-leading 24-bit/192 kHz audio conversion.
Critic endorsements:
soundref.com

A quality interface for shaping your unique sound

Simple to use
Unique sounding compressor
Retro looks

The compressor can add some noise

Go to ranking

Wirecutter

A step-up model for pro-quality music production

Go to ranking

Sweetwater

Top-flight analog circuitry and class-leading 24-bit/192kHz AD/DA conversion
Selectable Vintage Preamp Mode employs solid-state electronics for tube-like dynamic saturation and clipping
Convenient input metering makes setting levels a piece of cake
Built-in 1176-derived analog compressor with 3 expert presets

Does not include onboard DSP for UAD DSP-powered plugins; the Universal Audio Apollo Solo features onboard DSP

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We ranked Solid State Logic SSL2+ #7 in October 2024 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best audio recording interfaces” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 12 May 2023)
The Solid State Logic SSL2+ audio interface is a versatile and high-quality option for musicians, podcasters, and content creators, offering a range of input and output options, high-quality preamps, low-latency input monitoring, and powerful digital processing tools.
Critic endorsements:
soundref.com

Best interface for iconic heritage

High quality sound with low noise
2 headphone outputs with separate volume controls
4k mode adds some vintage character
4 extra RCA outputs

Headphone sockets at back of unit
Metering could be more detailed

Go to ranking

Sweetwater

Legendary SSL sound for your home or portable studio with 2 class-leading microphone preamps
4K Legacy mode imparts 4000 series analog console sound
SSL Native software bundle with Vocalstrip 2 and Drumstrip
Solid build quality, with heavy-duty chassis, Neutrik connectors, and Alps pots

None to speak of at this price point

Go to ranking

Music Radar

The best for audio interface for tracking vocals

Great preamps for the money
The 4k button adds a nice sound
Two headphone-outs are handy
Excellent connectivity

Cheap 4k button feel
Some won't need RCA outs

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We ranked Apogee Duet 3 #8 in October 2024 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best audio recording interfaces” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 11 Jan 2024)
The Apogee Duet 3 audio interface is a versatile and high-quality solution for capturing and monitoring audio, offering a comprehensive set of input and output options, low-latency performance, and onboard hardware DSP processing.
Critic endorsements:
producelikeapro.com

Go to ranking

Sweetwater

Top-quality Apogee AD/DA conversion and digital clocking with pristine analog circuitry and thoughtfully engineered power management
2 world-class mic preamps with +65dB of gain, +48V phantom power, and Apogee’s Advanced Stepped Gain Architecture
Onboard hardware DSP enables you to shape your sound right at the input stage with zero latency
Includes a hardware-accelerated version of Apogee’s ECS Channel Strip

Not expandable via ADAT optical; the Apogee Symphony Desktop is expandable up to 10 inputs
Does not include a traditional starter DAW in its software package; shop DAWs at Sweetwater

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Your Guitar Brain

Best for: Compact & Portability

Go to ranking

We ranked Universal Audio Apollo Twin X #9 in October 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best audio recording interfaces” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 21 Jul 2023)
The Universal Audio Apollo Twin X audio interface is highly praised for its versatile input/output options, low latency, top-notch preamp quality, powerful DSP processing capabilities, and compatibility with various software and operating systems, making it a recommended choice for home studios, project studios, and professional recording environments.
Critic endorsements:
Sweetwater

2 Unison preamps allow you to track through models of the industry’s most legendary hardware
Integrated talkback for easy communication and slating takes
Ultra-fast Thunderbolt 3 connectivity provides less than 2ms of latency and ample expandability
Includes a premium plug-in suite of 5 award-winning UAD plug-ins, along with the Realtime Analog Classics plug-in bundle with accurate emulations of vintage analog hardware

Limited to two Unison preamps; can be expanded by cascading multiple Apollo units via Thunderbolt

Go to ranking

Music Radar

The best for audio quality and DSP power

Top-quality mic preamps
Portable size
Channel DSP pairing
Rugged build quality

No thunderbolt cable included
Lenghty installation process

Go to ranking

We ranked Behringer UMC204HD #10 in October 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best audio recording interfaces” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 21 Jun 2023)
The Behringer UMC204HD audio interface is a versatile and reliable device that offers high-quality sound, low latency, and a range of input and output options, making it a practical choice for musicians, podcasters, and content creators.
Critic endorsements:
soundref.com

The best budget interface for new music makers

Exceptional value for money
Good range of inputs and outputs
Quiet preamps
Strong build quality

Limited LED meters
Needs studio quality headphones for critical listening

Go to ranking

hollyland.com

The UMC204HD offers excellent audio quality for its price point. The 24-Bit/192 kHz resolution ensures that recordings are crisp and detailed, which is impressive for an interface in this budget category.
The MIDAS-designed preamps are a standout feature. They provide clean and transparent amplification for microphones, which is crucial for capturing high-quality audio without noise or coloration.
Direct monitoring with zero-latency is a key advantage for vocalists and instrumentalists, allowing them to hear themselves in real-time without any distracting delay.
The build quality is robust for a budget interface, with a solid metal chassis that feels durable and well-suited for mobile recording setups or home studios.
The inclusion of MIDI I/O is a welcome addition that isn’t always found on interfaces at this price, making it a versatile choice for producers who use MIDI instruments and controllers

While the UMC204HD is compatible with most recording software, some users have reported driver issues, particularly on Windows systems, which can lead to frustration and require additional troubleshooting.
The UMC204HD’s preamps, although clear, might lack the character or warmth that some users might be looking for, which can be more prominent in higher-end interfaces.
The unit is USB-powered, which is convenient but can sometimes result in less headroom for the preamps compared to interfaces with external power supplies.
The “A” and “B” switchable monitor outputs are useful, but some users might prefer dedicated volume controls for each output for more precise monitoring setups

Go to ranking

We ranked Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII #11 in October 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best audio recording interfaces” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 19 May 2023)
The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII is a versatile and high-quality audio interface suitable for professional recording studios, home studios, and musicians who demand the best in preamp quality, offering a range of input and output options for recording and playback, extremely low latency levels, and powerful DSP processing capabilities.
Critic endorsements:
Musician on a Mission

Recommended for Solo Artists

Go to ranking

hollyland.com

Superb preamp quality that imparts clarity and character to your microphone.
Real-time UAD processing allows for professional effects without latency.
Unison technology provides authentic emulations of vintage hardware.
Solid build quality with an intuitive physical interface.

It’s on the pricier side, which might be a barrier for budget-conscious users.
It requires a Thunderbolt connection, which might limit its compatibility with some systems.
UAD plugins, while excellent, can be expensive, adding to the overall investment.

Go to ranking

We ranked RME Babyface Pro FS #12 in October 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best audio recording interfaces” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
soundref.com

Best interface for high end audio

Solid build quality
Pristine clear sound
Customisation options
Portability
MIDI

Not cheap

Go to ranking

Sweetwater

Rugged, low-profile housing has a great clean look but still offers deep control
Ample analog, digital, and MIDI connectivity makes integration with your studio easy
SteadyClock/femtosecond technology yields ultra-stable clocking
TotalMix FX gives you a fully flexible 288-channel mixer with 46-bit internal resolution

Maxes out at 12-input and 12-output channels; if you need more, check out the RME Fireface UCX II
Does not include a traditional starter DAW in its software package; shop DAWs at Sweetwater

Go to ranking

We ranked Universal Audio Apollo x8p #13 in October 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best audio recording interfaces” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
producelikeapro.com

Go to ranking

Sweetwater

6-core HEXA Core offers 50% more processing power than previous Apollos
Upgraded elite-class AD/DA conversion supplies an ultra-pristine signal path with 129dB dynamic range and –118dB THD+N
8 Unison preamps allow you to track through models of the industry’s most legendary hardware
Includes a premium plug-in suite of 10 award-winning UAD plug-ins, along with the Realtime Analog Classics Plus plug-in bundle with accurate emulations of vintage analog hardware

Requires UAD Console for interfacing with most DAWs; direct integration available with the UAD Luna Recording System (free for Apollo owners; Mac only)

Go to ranking

We ranked IK Multimedia AXE I/O #14 in October 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best audio recording interfaces” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
Sweetwater

Axe I/O’s JFET input stage adds analog mojo to your incoming instrument signal
Z-Tone variable impedance optimizes your instrument for AmpliTube’s virtual amps and stomps
Dedicated re-amp output and expression pedal inputs

Does not include a traditional starter DAW in its software package

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Music Radar

The best audio interface for recording guitars

Dedicated guitar input
Handy re-amping function
Connect external pedals/switches

Onboard tuner isn’t great
Not for non-guitarists

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We ranked Motu M4 #15 in October 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best audio recording interfaces” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 20 May 2023)
The Motu M4 audio interface is a versatile and reliable 4x4 USB-C interface suitable for a wide range of recording and playback needs, with low latency levels, clean and transparent preamps, and strong compatibility with various operating systems and major DAWs, making it an excellent choice for musicians, podcasters, and content creators who require a reliable and affordable audio interface with advanced features.
Critic endorsements:
Sweetwater

ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology delivers 120dB of dynamic range and superb audio quality
Optimized drivers yield round-trip latency as low as 2.5ms at 24-bit/96kHz with a 32 sample buffer
Full-color LCD screen supplies convenient front-panel metering
2 great-sounding microphone preamps with individual gain and phantom power

Not expandable via ADAT optical; shop MOTU interfaces with ADAT optical inputs

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Music Radar

The Best Audio Interface For Those Who Need MIDI

High-quality preamps
Useful display
DC coupled outputs
Fantastic build quality

Some Windows users had driver issues
Others are cheaper

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