Best Cheap Audio Interfaces: Our Top Picks! (Updated 2023)

Best Cheap Audio Interfaces

Introduction

We can describe audio interfaces as a key pieces of hardware that will turn your PC into a recording studio. If you are spending your time and you are making your music on a PC or MAC, an audio interface will be an essential piece of gear for your studio.

It will provide you with the inputs you will need for recording sound and outputs for listening to your music material and for checking the quality of your work.

At the moment there are a lot of audio interfaces on the market, our job is to help you decide what best suits your style and your needs. We took out some of the best interfaces on our list of top 10 audio interfaces.

What’s an Audio Interface

An audio interface is a bridge between your microphones, devices, audio gear, and your computer. You want an audio interface so as to record high-quality audio into your DAW and send the signal to the audio system by input and output.

An audio interface also called a soundboard, is a hardware gadget aimed primarily to transform AD and DA. In different words, it adjusts an analog signal (“A”) from the mic/instrument to a digital signal (“D”). In different words,  “Analog to Digital” or “AD”. Not only does convert AD, as it then converts the digital signal from the computer to an analog signal (“DA”).

There are a bunch of various interfaces available on the market with numerous numbers of inputs, outputs, and different options.

We just want to let you know that we’ll list these audio interfaces are in no particular order. They’ll be randomized as we don’t wish to sort them from best to worst.

Listed below are our Top 9 Best Cheap Audio Interfaces for 2023:

1. Focusrite Scarlett 4i4

The most populated audio interface between musicians and producers. Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 is similar to other Scarlett audio interfaces which means quality sound for any instruments you are using. Scarlett 4i4 is bringing more connectivity and also more inputs and outputs.

With preamps that were improved (going to 56dB gain), also with the inclusion of ISA transformer preamp emulation option (Air) and balanced connectivity throughout, you can see that almost all units in the range received technical and physical upgrades.

Control application by Focusrite is supported on Scarlett 4i4, which means that a number of settings like Air option, pad, and line/HI Z instrument selector can only be set with this software.

As we all expected from the Scarlett series, the drivers are reliable, the sonics are neutral and both units can work on up to 192Khz. The frequency response is tilted towards high frequencies with the Air option which can be good for adding high-frequency lift.

You will receive a good pack of software like Focusrite Red 2 and Red 3 plugin suite, Softube Time and Tone bundle, Pro Tools First Focusrite Creative Pack, Ableton Live Lite 10, XLN Audio Addictive Keys, and Focusrite Plug-In Collective.

While we had this audio interface, we used to it’s maximum for various purposes. But what we were most thrilled about was the Air feature because it adds a bit of Air (of course) to the recordings that we appreciated. One thing that we didn’t like about it was the touch feature because we prefer buttons to touch panels.

IMAGE	PRODUCT	Amazon Store	For US Customers	For EU Customers
	Focusrite Scarlett 4i4	Price On Amazon	Price on Sweetwater	Price on Thomann

2. Audient Evo 8

Audient is changing since we are living in a new golden age when it comes to recording. Embracing the fact that the number of musicians, podcasters, and recordists is growing on a daily basis, Audient came up with a new EVO 8 USB audio interface.

Featuring an innovative Smartgain automatic level setting function and four transparent EVO preamps, class-leading converters, a JFET instrument input, ultra-low latency performance, and an innovative Smartgain automatic level setting function. It is also an ideal travel companion, extra portable with great sound.

To ensure that you are capturing pristine and distortion-free sound there are class-leading converters together with a 24-bit/96kHz sample rate and a 113dB dynamic. The Audient Evo 8 is powered by a USB 2.0 connection, there is no need for an additional power adapter.

Evo 8 has two front-panel headphone jacks and two stereo monitor outputs. It actually has everything you need to start recording. With a new type of interface for younger artists, or better said for the new generation of artists. Evo 8 is there on our list of top 10 audio interfaces for 2023.

We still use the smaller brother, Evo 4 for our portable purposes, but the Evo 8 gives us better functionality when it comes to having more ins and outs. What separates this interface from all the others on the list and other interfaces as well is the Smart Gain option. We really suggest to you to try it out if you are unsure how hot you need to record.

That is probably the biggest benefit of this audio interface, besides the sound quality and desktop space savings. The only thing that we can say about this interface is that it seems fragile and we need to be careful not to have it fall down.

IMAGE	PRODUCT	Amazon Store	For US Customers	For EU Customers
	Audient Evo 8	Price On Amazon	Price on Sweetwater	Price on Thomann

3. SSL 2+ Audio Interface

SSL 2+ USB audio interface can bring legendary SSL sound into your studio. Solid State Logic has been one of the moving forces when it comes to audio recording for more than 40 years.

SSL 2+ comes with 24-bit/192 kHz converters and a set of pro-grade preamps. SSL 2+ brings to your studio the signature of the 4000 series with its Legacy 4k feature. This feature with the push of a button will impart the preamps with two characteristics.

The first one will be musical with a high-frequency EQ boost and it will push your instruments or vocals forward. Then you will notice an addition of harmonic distortion that will add personality to the signal.

About SSL2+ shipping and packing, it comes with an extensive production pack. It will include third-party software from Native Instruments, Avid, and Ableton and also 1.5GBs of samples from Loopcloud. In addition, SSL2+ comes together with two SSL native channel strips Vocalstrip 2 and Drumstrip. There is no need for further explanations why this legendary audio interface is on our list.

When we checked out this interface in the store, we really were satisfied with how it sits on the desk. Besides the features that are coming with it, besides the preamps that are crafted by SSL, the Legacy 4k feature is something that stands out and we really loved. Another thing that we can say about it is that the design is perfect and easy for every user.

When we compare it to other audio interfaces in this range, we can say that this one has features that no other model has (the Legacy 4K) which separates it from the bunch. In terms of negatives about it, we cannot find a single one so we really suggest you to try this one out.

IMAGE	PRODUCT	Amazon Store	For US Customers	For EU Customers
	SSL 2+	Price On Amazon	Price on Sweetwater	Price on Thomann

4. Audient iD4

Audient iD4 is a very simple two-input/two-output offering a mic preamp together with phantom power for using condenser mics and instrument level DI for plugging in your bass or guitar. On top of everything, iD4 has a main output for your speakers and dual headphone outputs. Audient iD4 is arguably the best audio interface you can get for less than 200$.

iD4 can work on iPhone or iPad, it is powered with USB and with Apple’s camera connection kit. To be honest Audient did a great job with this interface thinking about everything from usability to value. It will help the musicians with low budged to have this great piece of equipment in their studio.

Audient iD4 is very simple and it is the best USB audio interface that we have seen at this price for a long time. That also helped a lot with our decision to put this great and inexpensive audio interface to be featured in our picks.

What makes this audio interface stand out from the others on the list is that it packs dynamite in a small box. Besides that, Audient is widely known for the converters and the sound quality that comes out of it. One thing that we can say about this one is that it has all the features that one interface should have – nothing more.

When we first time listened to it in the audio store, we really liked its sound and simplicity, so that is one thing that makes it stand out. Simple yet effective.

IMAGE	PRODUCT	Amazon Store	For US Customers	For EU Customers
	Audient iD4	Price On Amazon	Price on Sweetwater	Price on Thomann

5. Presonus Studio 24c

The Studio 24c 2-in, 2-out audio interface options 2 front-panel combo mic/line/instrument inputs with PreSonus XMAX-L solid-state mic preamps. It comes with Studio One Artist music manufacturing software for macOS and windows. Studio One enables you to store, audition, and buy new content right out of your production setting.

A Mixer knob blends analog input and laptop playback for low-latency monitoring. The Studio 24c provides you with clear, clean, ultra-high-def sound in a bus-powered, rugged unit. Whereas it is the proper companion for any recording software program, it supplies you with a reasonably priced, home and mobile recording resolution.

The Studio 24c operates at as much as 192 kHz for ultra-high-definition recording and mixing. High-quality converters on each input and output and PreSonus’ professional-grade XMAX-L mic preamps allow you to seize advanced musical harmonics easily and naturally, with no audible distortion. XMAX-L mic preamps are designed to carry out optimally on bus-powered audio interfaces, permitting you to take the nice sound with you wherever you record.

What we really liked about this interface is the metering, because it is so precise and will help us to make the right decisions in terms of the recording level. With all the features that are there, we are able to make the perfect home recording and have no worries. The vocals we recorded with this one are still great even nowadays, so no lack of quality.

The downside maybe it is that this one also feels fragile and we need to be careful not to drop it, but that goes for every audio unit we own – to preserve it and keep it secure.

IMAGE	PRODUCT	Amazon Store	For US Customers	For EU Customers
	PreSonus Studio 24c	Price On Amazon	Price on Sweetwater	Price on Thomann

6. Steinberg UR12

The Steinberg UR12 USB Audio Interface combines an especially compact design, extraordinary build high quality, full iPad connectivity, and the excellent D-PRE mic preamp to redefine high quality for its class of 2-in 2-out USB interfaces. 24/192 converters give you excellent ranges of audio constancy, whereas the D-PRE provides your microphone recordings with unbelievable detail, depth, and dynamics.

The Steinberg UR12 proves with a number of first-class elements can match right into a compact gadget at a really competitive price level. Its cleverly engineered capabilities provide you with all of the I/O you could quickly record your tracks.

At a top quality that may just some years in the past have appeared unattainable on a recording gadget at this price level. The acclaimed D-PRE gives a sumptuously detailed, splendidly dynamic sound, whereas the second input gives access to a Hi-Z input for guitars or basses. That includes recording in beautiful 24-bit high quality at a whopping 192 kHz, the Steinberg UR12 gives virtually unheard-of constancy for recording in its class.

The Steinberg UR12 has been engineered not only to supply the utmost functionality and high quality in an especially compact design but additionally to be out there at a really low price point.

Typically, smaller interfaces that might be inexpensive for those on a tight budget imply (at finest) common audio high quality; this ethos has been transcended by the Steinberg UR12, with its first-rate components, implausible price/value ratio, and exceedingly transportable design.

We really liked that Steinberg produced this one, meaning that there should be no problem running Cubase, our favorite DAW. Not that other interfaces will not work, but we expected better compatibility and we got it. The preamps are something that really stands out in this interface and they are something that is standing out in it in comparison to the other interfaces in this range.

The only thing that we can say about it is that again this one also is really simple and you are not getting anything extra, but the features that are important to every interface.

IMAGE	PRODUCT	Amazon Store	For US Customers	For EU Customers
	Steinberg UR12	Price On Amazon	Price on Sweetwater	Price on Thomann

7. Behringer U-Phoria UMC22

When it’s time to record, you want a dependable audio interface, one you possibly can rely on. That’s why Behringer kicked things up a bit with the U-PHORIA Collection USB Audio Interfaces. With four distinctive models to select from, the U-PHORIA Collection has the perfect interface to make your recording expertise legendary.

Renowned for their digital console design, Behringer’s sister firm MIDAS developed the world-class preamps for the UMC204, UMC202, and UMC22 interfaces” and because of the available +48 V phantom power, you possibly can even use professional-grade studio condenser mics to create excellent tracks.

You take your tracks seriously, and the U-PHORIA Collection respects that, offering your alternative of 96kHz resolution (UMC204/UMC202), or 48kHz resolution converters (UMC22/UM2), relying on your software. Both sampling rates supply higher than CD recording high quality for professional outcomes.

All U-PHORIA models present highly effective phones output with Level management and Direct Monitor select, Status, Signal, and Clip LEDs, and are powered through your laptop’s USB port in order that they’re ready to go wherever you go. Plus it provides free audio recording, enhancing, and podcasting software, plus 150 instruments/effect plug-ins” only a download away at BEHRINGER.com.

In our personal opinion, when using UMC22, we faced no problems and the audio interface delivered to the maximum. The vocals were clear and ready and the stuff that comes with it is very welcomed. But yet again with this one, it has all the features needed and nothing more. But for the price that it comes, it really serves the users right and everyone should be satisfied.

IMAGE	PRODUCT	Amazon Store	For EU Customers	For US Customers
	Behringer U-Phoria UMC22	Price On Amazon	Price on Thomann	Price on Sweetwater

8. Mackie Onyx Artist

Aesthetically talking, there’s nothing out of the ordinary on the subject of the design of the Onyx Artist 1-2 it appears like 90% of the other budget audio interfaces on the market (other than the cool Mackie logo watermarked onto the chassis!).

Below the hood, the USB 2.0-powered 1-2 options premium Mackie circuitry with a renowned Onyx mic preamp for excellent constancy. For connecting instruments equivalent to electric and bass guitars, there’s a 1/4” TRS input with a Hi-Z change, whereas connecting studio mics is simple with the XLR and +48v phantom power switch.

As is typical, both sit neatly at the entrance of the gadget, together with individual gain controls. The headphone jack additionally sits on the entrance, whereas across the back you’ll discover the balanced TRS monitor outputs.

The Onyx Artist 1-2 is suitable with Mac and PC, and – while it comes with a duplicate of Tracktion T7 – this interface is suitable with all DAWs. This is nice since you’ll need to use it to its full potential.

The general efficiency is surprisingly strong for an entry-level gadget. The sound quality is nothing short of glorious, with pure replication of an instrument’s tone, 24-bit/192kHz recording, and no-latency monitoring. In the meantime, the controls all really feel very sturdy and responsive, whereas the USB energy port makes it excellent to be used on the go – simply plug into your machine and you are ready.

What do we think about Mackie? Well, this one is sturdy and you should not worry if you drop it. We are kidding of course, even though it’s hard, do not drop it. This is probably the most notable feature that separates it from the competition. In other manners, the features appear to be standard, and no surprise there. The best feature is the preamps and the only negative aspect is that nothing is there that will make us say “Wow”.

IMAGE	PRODUCT	Amazon Store	For US Customers	For EU Customers
	Mackie Onyx Artist	Price On Amazon	Price on Sweetwater	Price on Thomann

Cheap Audio Interfaces – 2023 Additions

9. Motu M6

Here is the newest addition in 2023. The Motu M6. We have a separate single review on the interface and we are going to share brief details from it below:

“There are six inputs on the MOTU M6, four of which accept mic, line, and Hi-Z instrument signals, and two of which accept 1/4″ line signals. The first thing that strikes the eye is that MOTU has positioned all of the inputs at the back of the unit.

In addition, the M6 features an A/B monitor switch, which is unique in its class, and allows users to compare mix output on two sets of studio monitors at the same time. ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC Technology drives both headphone outputs and features independent volume control for each.

The ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology provides 120dB of dynamic range, ensuring that the M6’s analog audio quality will stand up to the most sophisticated equipment on the market.

With a 32-sample buffer, optimized drivers provide a round-trip latency as low as 2.5ms at 24-bit/96kHz. In addition to four mic/line/high-Z guitar inputs on combo XLR/TRS jacks, four DC-coupled analog outputs, and an ESS-driven stereo headphone output, the M6 includes all the necessary connections. Additionally, MIDI I/O is provided.“

When we first time tried this audio interface, we were satisfied with the results of the recording in the first place. Besides that, the amazing metering is what differentiates this audio interface from the rest on the list. MOTU being another subtle giant in the industry poured everything they know about crafting an interface like this one.

The benefits are huge because it has amazing preamps and is versatile, but the only downside is that cannot be slotted in a rack since it is a desktop model and you need to learn how to use the loopback – nothing more.

IMAGE	PRODUCT	Amazon Store	For US Customers	For EU Customers
	Motu M6	Price On Amazon	Price on Sweetwater	Price on Thomann

Check out our full review of MOTU M6 here!

Check our eBook on Mixing Tips! If you want to get a more in-depth breakdown of those tips we share, follow our link and get the “Ultimate Mixing Tips Booklet” and up your game quickly!