If you’re a musician, podcaster, or voice actor, you need an audio interface to record your voice or instrument with high-quality sound. However, choosing the right audio interface can be overwhelming, especially if you have a limited budget. In this article, we will explore the best audio interfaces that you can buy today for $300.
What is an Audio Interface?
Before we dive into the list, let’s first define what an audio interface is. An audio interface is a device that allows you to connect your microphone, instrument or other audio sources to your computer. It converts analog audio signals into digital data that your computer can process, and vice versa. The quality of the audio interface’s converters and preamps determines the overall sound quality of your recordings.
Top 10 Best Audio Interfaces Under $300
Without further ado, here are the top audio interfaces that you can buy today for $300 or less:
1. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen)
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a popular audio interface among musicians, podcasters, and voice actors. It features two XLR/¼” combo inputs, two line outputs, and a headphone output. The preamps are known for their clarity and low noise, and the interface supports up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution. The Scarlett 2i2 also comes with a bundle of software, including Ableton Live Lite and Pro Tools First.
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen
Audio Interface for Recording, Songwriting, Streaming and Podcasting — High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, and All the Software You Need to Record.
2. PreSonus AudioBox USB 96
The PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is another popular audio interface that offers high-quality sound and affordable price. It features two XLR/¼” combo inputs, two line outputs, and a headphone output. The preamps are transparent and offer up to 48V phantom power. The interface supports up to 24-bit/96kHz resolution and comes with a bundle of software, including Studio One Artist and Studio Magic Plug-in Suite.
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96
A reliable audio interface with two XLR/¼” combo inputs, two line outputs, and transparent preamps. Supports up to 24-bit/96kHz resolution and comes with a bundle of software.
3. Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD
The Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD is a versatile audio interface that features four XLR/¼” combo inputs, four line outputs, and a headphone output. The preamps offer up to 48V phantom power and up to 60dB gain. The interface supports up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution and comes with a bundle of software, including Tracktion 4 and 150 instrument/effect plug-ins.
Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD
A versatile audio interface with four XLR/¼” combo inputs, four line outputs, and up to 60dB gain. Supports up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution and comes with a bundle of software.
4. Mackie Onyx Artist 1X2
The Mackie Onyx Artist 1-2 is a compact audio interface that features one XLR/¼” combo input, one line output, and a headphone output. The preamp offers up to 60dB gain and up to 48V phantom power. The interface supports up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution and comes with a bundle of software, including Tracktion T7 and DAW Essentials Collection.
Mackie Onyx Artist 1X2
A compact audio interface with one XLR/¼” combo input, one line output, and up to 60dB gain. Supports up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution and comes with a bundle of software.
5. Audient iD4 MKII USB-C Audio Interface
The Audient iD4 is a high-quality audio interface that features one XLR/¼” combo input, one line output, and a headphone output. The preamp offers up to 60dB gain and up to 48V phantom power. The interface supports up to 24-bit/96kHz resolution and comes with a bundle of software, including two virtual instruments and a collection of plug-ins.
Audient iD4 MKII USB-C Audio Interface
A high-quality audio interface with one XLR/¼” combo input, one line output, and up to 60dB gain. Supports up to 24-bit/96kHz resolution and comes with a bundle of software.
6. Steinberg UR22C
The Steinberg UR22C is a robust audio interface that features two XLR/¼” combo inputs, two line outputs, and a headphone output. The preamps offer up to 60dB gain and up to 48V phantom power. The interface supports up to 32-bit/192kHz resolution and comes with a bundle of software, including Cubase AI and a suite of VST plug-ins.
Steinberg UR22C 2×2 USB 3.0 Audio Interface
A robust audio interface with two XLR/¼” combo inputs, two line outputs, and up to 60dB gain. Supports up to 32-bit/192kHz resolution and comes with a bundle of software.
7. Tascam US-2×2
The Tascam US-2×2 is a reliable audio interface that features two XLR/¼” combo inputs, two line outputs, and a headphone output. The preamps offer up to 57dB gain and up to 48V phantom power. The interface supports up to 24-bit/96kHz resolution and comes with a bundle of software, including Cubase LE and a collection of plug-ins.
Tascam US-2x2HR
A reliable audio interface with two XLR/¼” combo inputs, two line outputs, and up to 57dB gain. Supports up to 24-bit/96kHz resolution and comes with a bundle of software.
8. PreSonus AudioBox iTwo
The PreSonus AudioBox iTwo is a portable audio interface that features two XLR/¼” combo inputs, two line outputs, and a headphone output. The preamps are transparent and offer up to 48V phantom power. The interface supports up to 24-bit/96kHz resolution and comes with a bundle of software, including Studio One Artist and Capture Duo.
PreSonus AudioBox iTwo
A portable audio interface with two XLR/¼” combo inputs, two line outputs, and transparent preamps. Supports up to 24-bit/96kHz resolution and comes with a bundle of software.
9. Behringer U-PHORIA UMC204HD
The Behringer UMC204HD is a versatile audio interface that features two XLR/¼” combo inputs, two line outputs, and a headphone output. The preamps offer up to 60dB gain and up to 48V phantom power. The interface supports up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution and comes with a bundle of software, including Tracktion T7 and 150 instrument/effect plug-ins.
Behringer U-PHORIA UMC204HD
A versatile audio interface with two XLR/¼” combo inputs, two line outputs, and up to 60dB gain. Supports up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution and comes with a bundle of software.
10. M-Audio Air 192|4
The M-Audio Air 192|4 is a user-friendly audio interface that features two XLR/¼” combo inputs, two line outputs, and a headphone output. The preamps offer up to 60dB gain and up to 48V phantom power. The interface supports up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution and comes with a bundle of software, including Pro Tools First and Eleven Lite.
M-Audio Air 192|4
A user-friendly audio interface with two XLR/¼” combo inputs, two line outputs, and up to 60dB gain. Supports up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution and comes with a bundle of software.
What to Consider When Buying an Audio Interface?
When buying an audio interface, there are several factors to consider:
- Number of Inputs and Outputs: The number of inputs and outputs you need depends on the number of microphones or instruments you want to record simultaneously and the number of speakers or headphones you want to connect to the interface.
- Connectivity: Audio interfaces can connect to your computer via USB, Thunderbolt, FireWire, or PCIe. USB is the most common and affordable option, but Thunderbolt and PCIe offer faster and more stable connections.
- Preamp Quality: The quality of the preamps determines how clean and transparent the recorded sound will be. High-end preamps offer more gain, less noise, and more headroom.
- Sampling Rate and Bit Depth: The sampling rate determines how many times per second the audio is recorded, and the bit depth determines how much detail is captured. Higher sampling rates and bit depths result in higher-quality recordings.
- Compatibility: Make sure that the audio interface is compatible with your operating system and recording software.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many great audio interfaces available for under $300. The best one for you depends on your specific needs and preferences, such as the number of inputs and outputs, preamp quality, connectivity, and compatibility. We hope that this article has helped you in your search for the perfect audio interface.
FAQs
What is the difference between an audio interface and a mixer?
An audio interface is used to convert analogue audio signals into digital data that your computer can process, and vice versa. A mixer, on the other hand, is used to combine multiple audio sources and adjust their levels, EQ, and effects in real-time. While some audio interfaces have basic mixing features, they are primarily designed for recording and playback, whereas mixers are designed for live sound reinforcement.
Can I use an audio interface with my smartphone or tablet?
Yes, some audio interfaces can connect to smartphones or tablets via USB or Lightning cables. However, you may need additional adapters or drivers depending on your device and operating system.
Do I need a high-end audio interface for home recording?
Not necessarily. While high-end audio interfaces offer better sound quality and more features, such as advanced routing and digital processing, they are not always necessary for home recording. Most budget-friendly audio interfaces provide sufficient sound quality and functionality for most recording tasks.
Can I use an audio interface as a standalone preamp?
Yes, some audio interfaces have high-quality preamps that can be used as standalone units for recording instruments and microphones. However, keep in mind that not all audio interfaces have this feature, and standalone preamps may offer more gain, less noise, and more tonal options.
What is the difference between 24-bit and 32-bit resolutions?
The bit depth of an audio file determines the dynamic range and amount of detail that can be captured. 24-bit resolution offers a dynamic range of 144dB and a theoretical noise floor of -144dB, which is more than enough for most recording applications. 32-bit resolution offers a theoretical noise floor of -192dB and is primarily used in professional mastering and post-production applications. However, keep in mind that most audio interfaces and recording software only support up to 24-bit resolution.
