These affordable interfaces prove you don't need to spend big to get great sound into your DAW.
The past 20 years have seen massive strides in the quality of A/D and D/A conversion, essentially putting quality converters in the hands of producers and engineers of all skill levels, regardless of budget. With this, cheap converters no longer mean an immediate compromise on quality when it comes to capturing your source audio digitally. Really, the biggest hurdle associated with purchasing an audio interface these days is deciding how many built-in preamps you may or may not require for your projects as well as the method of connectivity needed for your system.
With budget soundcards providing more value than ever, let’s take a look at a few of the best choices for anyone in the market for their first audio interface.
Lewitt Connect 2
The Connect 2 is a fantastic audio interface for anyone who is looking for a simple user interface and rugged build quality. Lewitt has designed the Connect 2 to be the perfect interface for musicians and content creators who just want to pick up and go. Innovative features such as Clipguard, Denoiser and Autosetup will have you recording right out of the box, while Lewitt’s bundled Control Centre software offers plenty of tweakable parameters for more experienced users.
Apogee Boom 2×2
The Boom 2×2 marries Apogee’s world-class converters and a single crystal clear mic preamplifier into an entry-level package that will appease even the most strident of creators. The Hi-Z input located on the unit’s front panel also means that musicians can make the most of the Apogee Boom 2×2. This, combined with the Boom 2×2’s inbuilt DSP FX and its ability to be bus powered, makes this a great choice for any creators who need to work on the go!
PreSonus Quantum ES 2
Representing the new generation of entry-level PreSonus Audio Interfaces, the Quantum ES 2 boasts new low-latency drivers as well as 2 high-quality Max HD mic preamplifiers. These features, combined with the Quantum ES 2’s thought-out user interface, make for a great recording experience every time. The fact that the Quantum ES 2 was designed in collaboration with Fender makes it a great pick for guitarists and bassists who are looking for their first audio interface. If this wasn’t enough, the Quantum ES 2 comes bundled with Studio One+, representing fantastic value for money.
Audio-Technica AT-UMX3
Designed to be the perfect companion for streamers, the AT-UMX3 is Audio-Technica’s take on a simple audio mixer that doubles as an audio interface. The unit itself boasts a fantastic build quality and simple user interface, ensuring that you’ll be up and running in no time. The AT-UMX3 boasts direct compatibility with Mac, PC and mobile devices without the need for installing external drivers or software, making it a great solution for creators looking for an all-in-one solution to their recording and mixing needs.
Universal Audio Volt 2
A name synonymous with quality, Universal Audio has brought forth the Volt 2 as a viable solution for collaborators who need at least two hardware preamps within their setup. Compatible with Apple, PC and Mobile devices, the Volt 2 is guaranteed to integrate seamlessly into any setup. Character is the name of the game when it comes to the Volt 2, brandishing its vintage Mic preamp mode modelled off of UA’s classic 610 tube preamp the Volt 2 is a great choice for anyone who wants to impart a bit of vintage flavour to their source audio.
Audient ID4 MKII 2-In/2-Out
The Audient ID4 has proven to be an extremely popular option within the budget audio interface market. Now in its MKII iteration, Audient have done everything in their immediate power to further improve on what is fast becoming a classic. Featuring the same circuit found in their world-renowned ASP8024-HE console, the Audient ID4 MKII succeeds in its endeavour to bring ultra-low noise/distortion recordings to the home studio. All in a convenient desktop footprint that will fit in even the tightest of workspaces.
RØDE AI-1
Aussie microphone stalwarts RØDE have delivered a professional-grade single-channel audio interface with the AI-1. Commendable, considering that the AI-1 is one of the lowest-priced interfaces to feature on our list. The AI-1 combines a high-quality Neutrik combo jack with a beefy headphone amplifier and pro-grade mic preamp to give you everything you need to get recording and nothing more straight out of the box.
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen
The Scarlett has been a long-standing unit within Focusrite’s interface line, and this stands for good reason. To date, this red unit has stood as one of the most popular choices for those taking their first steps into audio production. Digging into what the Scarlett Solo has to offer, there is no wonder why this is the case: a stylish and user-friendly UI, combined with a super clean mic pre, hi z input, user switchable phantom power and high-powered headphone amplifier. There is no doubt that there will be more than a few Scarlett Solos under the tree this year.
