
Too Many Audio Interfaces? Here's How to Choose the Right One
Discover five key factors to consider when selecting the perfect audio interface for your needs.
Last updated 1 week ago. Automatically generated content.


Select options and limit the number of products
Audio inputs on an audio interface determine the types of connections available for plugging in microphones, instruments, and other audio sources. The choice of inputs impacts the versatility and compatibility of the interface with various audio equipment, affecting recording quality and workflow efficiency.
Popular options (you can select more than one)
XLR/6.3mm combo (2x)
Typical price
130.– to 290.–Provides dual-purpose inputs that support both XLR and 6.3mm connections.
Ideal for recording both microphones and instruments simultaneously, enhancing flexibility in studio setups.
Bestseller
6.3 mm jack (2x)
Typical price
150.– to 460.–Consists of two 6.3 mm jack inputs for connecting instruments directly.
Best suited for setups focused on instrument recording, offering simplicity and direct connection without adapters.
Bestseller
MIDI (1x)
Typical price
160.– to 490.–Includes a single MIDI input for connecting digital instruments and controllers.
Perfect for integrating electronic keyboards and synthesizers into recording sessions, expanding creative possibilities.
Bestseller
Coaxial S/PDIF (1x)
Typical price
460.– to 1200.–Features a coaxial S/PDIF input for digital audio connections.
Ensures high-quality digital audio transfer, suitable for connecting digital mixers or other digital audio sources without loss of quality.
Bestseller
Audio outputs on an interface determine how sound is transmitted to external devices, like speakers or headphones, influencing audio quality and connectivity options. Choosing the right outputs ensures compatibility with existing equipment and impacts sound clarity and overall listening experience.
Popular options (you can select more than one)
Headphones Out (1x)
Typical price
94.– to 300.–Provides a single headphone output for private listening and monitoring.
Ideal for solo recording sessions, ensuring clear audio feedback without disturbing others.
Bestseller
6.3 mm jack (2x)
Typical price
130.– to 300.–Features dual 6.3 mm jack outputs for connecting to professional audio systems.
Perfect for sound engineers needing reliable connections for studio monitors, enhancing audio fidelity.
Bestseller
Coaxial S/PDIF (1x)
Typical price
400.– to 890.–Offers a coaxial S/PDIF output for digital audio connections, maintaining signal integrity.
Recommended for setups requiring high-quality digital sound transmission, such as home theater systems.
Bestseller
Headphone jack 3.5mm (1x)
Typical price
140.– to 230.–Includes a 3.5 mm headphone jack for versatile use with standard headphones.
Suitable for casual listening and portable setups, ensuring convenience and compatibility.
Bestseller
The number of inputs on an audio interface determines how many devices or instruments you can connect simultaneously, impacting your recording capabilities. Selecting the right number of inputs is crucial for accommodating your setup and ensuring seamless integration without frequent reconfiguration.
Popular options
Up to 4
Typical price
110.– to 290.–Suitable for solo artists or small home studios, allowing connection of a few microphones or instruments.
Ideal for simple setups, offering ease of use and quick configuration for basic recording needs.
Bestseller
5 - 8
Typical price
290.– to 840.–Provides more flexibility for small bands or projects that require multiple inputs.
Great for moderate recording setups, allowing simultaneous capture of different audio sources for richer sound production.
Bestseller
9 - 16
Typical price
360.– to 2400.–Designed for larger studios or complex projects requiring extensive input options.
Perfect for professional environments, supporting diverse setups and ensuring comprehensive audio capture for high-quality output.
Bestseller
Interface equipment encompasses various features and functionalities that enhance the usability and performance of audio interfaces. Choosing the right equipment is crucial for fulfilling specific recording needs and ensuring optimal sound quality and versatility during audio production.
Popular options (you can select more than one)
Phantom Power Supply
Typical price
130.– to 490.–Provides power to condenser microphones, enabling their operation and capturing high-quality audio.
Essential for studio recordings, ensuring microphones can deliver detailed and accurate sound reproduction.
Bestseller
Guitar/Bass Input
Typical price
130.– to 460.–Features dedicated inputs for connecting guitars and basses directly to the audio interface.
Ideal for musicians who want to record instruments with ease and maintain sound fidelity without additional equipment.
Bestseller
Microphone input
Typical price
130.– to 460.–Includes ports for connecting microphones, accommodating various types such as dynamic and condenser mics.
Ensures seamless integration and quality sound capture for vocal recordings, podcasts, or live performances.
Bestseller
Effects
Typical price
200.– to 1400.–Incorporates built-in effects like reverb and delay to enhance and modify audio signals.
Offers creative flexibility and efficiency, allowing users to experiment with sound without needing separate processors.
Bestseller
The brand factor is crucial in guiding customers to choose audio interfaces based on reputation and specific strengths, ensuring a reliable and satisfying user experience. Brands like Focusrite, IK Multimedia, and MOTU are renowned for their innovation and quality, catering to different needs from beginners to professional audio engineers.
Popular brands (you can select more than one)
Focusrite
Recognized for creating user-friendly interfaces with high-quality preamps.
Ideal for home studios and solo artists seeking reliable, entry-level to mid-range options.
Bestseller
IK Multimedia
Known for integrating software and hardware seamlessly in their products.
Great for mobile and home studio setups, offering versatile, portable solutions.
Bestseller
MOTU
Esteemed for high-performance interfaces with advanced connectivity options.
Preferred by professionals for complex setups requiring superior sound quality and flexibility.
Bestseller
Audient
Celebrated for delivering studio-grade sound quality at an affordable price.
Perfect for those looking for robust build and exceptional audio clarity.
Bestseller
RØDE
Famous for its durability and high-fidelity audio capture.
Excellent choice for field recording and podcasting, offering robust and portable solutions.
Bestseller









