All in One Guide for Best Audio Interfaces under Various Price Ranges

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Table of Contents

The Essentials for “Best Audio Interfaces”

There are no such mandatory criteria for a particular audio interface to qualify as the “best audio interface in this price range.” A 2in/2out audio interface may be the perfect choice for you if you are planning for bedroom/drawing recording and it would be a waste to use an interface there which has dozens of in/out counts. In another scenario, it would be irrelevant to buy a hybrid (firewire cum USB connectivity) interface if you never plan to connect via firewire anytime soon and can save a few bucks by choosing an interface having USB connectivity only. So, the point is, detailed research on your requirement as well as product specification is imperative before making a selection. Your analysis of your needs is up to you; an analysis of best choices of audio interfaces available for you is given below.

Key Points to Consider Before Buying

Buying an audio interface can be very tough and confusing, especially if you are a rookie in this field because their plenty of attributes associated with an audio interface and you just don’t know which features are important for you. Of course, every feature are important and experienced professionals opt for themselves the product that precisely meets their requirements, but the key specifications/highlights to look out for, before buying a particular audio interface must be these:

DAW software compatibility; the more, the better

Most of the top DAW software is compatible with all interfaces. Though very rare, if you don’t have a dedicated DAW software coming along with your interface, then it can be a difficult task finding out compatibility details. So, be very sure of compatibility issue regarding that particular DAW software from company’s website before selecting it

Interface connectors

There are essentially four types of interface connectors to choose from. And you need to be aware of your host system’s (computer, laptop, ipad, etc.) capability as well as the technical knowledge of the connector types. The four types are as follows:

USBFirewireThunderboltPcie

Seen in cheaper interfaces preferably used for home studio. It offers the slowest rate of data transfer.

Getting extinct day by day, these offer a little faster data transfer rate and are seen on expensive home studio set-ups.

Much faster than firewire or USB, these connection types are typically seen on semi-pro interfaces.

The standard connection used by professionals, it is equipped with additional processing power and boasts of the fastest data transfer rate.

Input/Output Counts; must be based on your requirements

It essentially depends on how many tracks you want to record or monitor simultaneously. Normally, input/output counts vary from 2 to 20+. A generalised classification would be: 2 to 4 for solo musicians, 4-8 for small bands, songwriter’s team, etc. and at least 16+ for professional, large bands, sound engineers, etc

Types of Input channels; as per your requirements

Mostly there are three types of input channels, and you will find a combination of these three only in most of the audio interfaces. These are:

Mic inputLine inputOptical input

Connects a mic directly

Requires an additional onboard mic preamplifier so that it can be used as mic channel

A digital input that requires a digital converter along with mic preamp to work as mic channel. There are two other types of input namely DI input (for guitar/bass) and MIDI input (for computer, keyboard, etc.)

The baseline is that the ‘real’count of input is essentially the mic preamp count and not the total count that is displayed. So choose your interface accordingly

What are the Best Audio Interfaces Brands?

Quite a plenty number of brands are there, which manufacture good quality audio interfaces. Ranking these brands is a difficult task simply because there are numerous conditions which need to be considered by which rating must be done. However, arbitrarily if the rating is done based on the popularity of products/ number of products sold, the ranking would be as follows:

Focusrite

Focusrite is a household name for all musicians and sound engineers, and there are good reasons for that. Be it USB, Thunderbolt, Saffire, Ethernet, iOS or ADAT, Focusrite manages to develop the best-in-class quality in an affordable range. Probably this is the reason why it is the most popular brand and has won a couple of ‘best audio interface brand’ awards. Among its products range, the Scarlett series can be claimed as the most famous and popular

Presonus

This American DAW and audio interface manufacturer company is the closest competitor of Focusrite. Be it their mixing systems, control surfaces, DAWs, preamps, processors or audio interfaces, PreSonus products give decent performance and is trustworthy when it comes to service. The “presonus audio box” along with the “presonus gear” has earned a very positive reputation around the world. Budget-friendly, hi-performance, top-quality service, persons can be your best choice if you are a semi-pro musician

Steinberg

This German musical software and equipment giant is a fair entry in this list. Their audio interface products are named under UR series and are cheap and deliver high performance. Their line of an audio interface is typically USB 2.0 powered and are ideal for sound engineers and songwriter teams. Steinberg UR series, along with the famous Cubase DAW, are engineered and tailored to meet the highest performance standards at an affordable price range

The Top 5 Audio Interface under 100

Products	Connection	Total I/O	Bit Depth/Res	OS	Software
Focusrite Scarlett Solo (2nd Gen)	USB 2.0	2/2	24 bit/192 kHz	Windows, MacOS	Pro Tools \| First Focusrite Creative Pack and Ableton Live Lite, Focusrite Control, Softube Time and Tone Bundle, Focusrite’s Red Plug-in Suite
Presonus Audiobox USB 2x2	USB 2.0	2/2	24 bit/48 kHz	Windows, Mac OS	Presonus Studio One Artist 3
Behringer U-Phoria UMC204HD	USB 2.0	2/4	24 bit/192 kHz	Windows, Mac OS	Avid Pro Tools, Ableton Live, Steinberg Cubase
Behringer U-phoria UMC404HD	USB 2.0	4/4	24 bit/192 kHz	Windows, Mac OS	Avid Pro Tools, Ableton Live, Steinberg Cubase
Steinberg UR12 USB	USB 2.0	2/2	24 bit/192 kHz	Windows, Mac OS, i-OS	Cubase AI, Cubasis LE

1 – Focusrite Scarlett Solo (2nd Gen) USB

Features and values

Ideal for guitar player owing to latest redesigned instrument input.
Best for amplifying quieter moments without any annoying buzz or hissing.
Comes with handy software such as Red-2 and Red-3 Plug-in suite, pro-tools, Focusrite control tools and much more.

Review summary

Focusrite is known for giving the best value for money products, and this particular product is no exception. Touted as a great Linux and Mac Sound In/Out Option under this price range, Scarlett Solo (2nd Generation is compact, stylish, easy to use, ready for studio quality recording and full of other useful features.

Prices/Reviews

Focusrite Scarlett Solo (2nd Gen) USB

2 – Presonus AudioBox USB 2×2

Features and values

Complete analog monitoring and no latency to give perfect noise protection.
Comes with Studio One Artist DAW software (means you are ready to record right after unpacking).
Equipped with the controller to give you command over input signal and host computer playback.
Robust build-up meant for heavy-duty usage and bus powered USB.

Review summary

Can be easily considered as the best buy in this cheap price range. The only demerit is the absence of external power facility (can be powered by USB only)

Prices/Reviews

Presonus AudioBox USB 2×2

3 – Behringer U-phoria UMC404HD

Features and values

4×4 audiophile Audio/MIDI interface equipped with MIDAS mic preamp; guarantees you the optimum sound quality.
Analog insert for providing external controls such as compressors, etc.
Input and playback mix control for perfectly balanced monitoring.
Robust metal chassis designed for rough and travel resistant use.

Review summary

The multiple indicator facilities (clipping, status and signal) is the plus point of this product which gives a complete overview. It comes with some free and downloadable recording, editing and podcast software (from behringer) which makes it attractive for persons seeking a complete home studio recording solution. Other features include ¼ inch TRS connectors, balanced XLR and powerful phone outputs.

Prices/Reviews

Behringer U-phoria UMC404HD

4 – Steinberg UR12 USB

Features and values

2×2 USB audio interface equipped with Class A D-PRE mic preamp assembled to give you decent microphone recording quality in this price range.
Designed to keep hardware monitoring easy and is latency free.
Comes with power source selector (USB powered, 5 V DC external power port) ensuring disruption-free power back-up.
The most outstanding feature is its compatibility with i-pads, apart from laptop and PC.

Review summary

Ipad compatibility being its exceptional feature which is unavailable in most AI in this price range, this product is best for the home studio as well as professional recording. The loopback function which enables posting live performances directly to the internet is also an attractive attribute.

Prices/Reviews

Steinberg UR12 USB

5 – Behringer U-Phoria UMC 204HD

Features and values

Table top audio interface with best-in-quality MIDAS mic preamplifier.
No latency direct monitoring which ensures no lag in returning signal.
Equipped with dedicated level-control ideal for DJ cueing.
Compact and rugged structure suitable for rough use.

Review summary

The complete package includes Tracktion DAW software known for its easy-to-use and fast functionality. Users rate it as an ideal budget set-up for home studio and Dj style recording. Even the full version of Tracktion 4 can be downloaded from behringer.com site after you buy the product. It also comes with 150 plus instruments and plug-in effect; a decent choice in this price range.

Prices/Reviews

Behringer U-Phoria UMC 204HD

The Top 5 Audio Interface under 200

Products	Connection	Total I/O	Bit Depth/Res	OS	Software
Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 (1st Gen)	USB 2.0	6/6	24bit/96 kHz	Windows, Mac OS	Ableton Live Lite, Scarlett Plug-in Suite (RTAS/AU/VST), Red 2 & Red 3 Plug-in Suite (AAX/AU/VST), the Softube Time and Tone Bundle, Novation Bass Station
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (2nd Gen)	USB 2.0	2/2	24 bit/192 kHz	Windows, Mac OS	Pro Tools \| First Focusrite Creative Pack and Ableton Live Lite, Focusrite Control, Softube Time and Tone Bundle, Focusrite’s Red Plug-in Suite
Steinberg UR22 MKII 2-channel	USB 2.0	2/2	24bit/192 kHz	Windows, Mac OS, i-OS	Cubase AI & Cubasis LE
Presonus Audiobox 22 VSL	USB 2.0	2/2	24 bit/96 kHz	Windows, Mac OS	Studio One Artist, Virtual StudioLive™ (VSL)
Tascam US-2x2 USB	USB 2.0	2/2	24 bit/96 kHz	Windows, Mac OS, i-OS	Cakewalk Sonar X3-LE/ Abelton Live Lite 9

1 – Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 (1st Gen)

Features and values

Red-2 and Red-3 plug-in suite (AAX/AU/VST) with two Focusrite mic preamps.
The stereo S/PDIF input for digital sources makes it ideal for bands and music production.
Hardware features include tough aluminium exterior with multiple knobs to give better accessibility at monitoring and controlling.

Review summary

Uniquely designed gain halo knobs and direct monitor function are its plus points. The mandatory Scarlett plug-in suite that comes with every Scarlett series along with zero-latency ensures total control over mixing.

Prices/Reviews

Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 (1st Gen)

2 – Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (1st Gen/2nd Gen)

Features and values

The most popular audio interface in the Scarlett series developed by its manufacturer, 2i2 boasts of super-fast speed, best-in-class sound quality and easy-to-use experience.
HP60 closed back headphones for complete noise-reduction.
CM25 large diaphragm condenser for optimum recording quality.

Review summary

Nothing more need to be said about Scarlett 2i2 as they are the most sought after audio interfaces all over the world. The compact and rough-and-tough exterior with ready to use features straight out of the box is some of the reasons why people love this product so much.

Prices/Reviews

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (1st Gen/2nd Gen)

3 – Steinberg UR22MKII 2-channel USB

Features and values

MIDI input/output and compatible with i-pad also.
Comes with two A-class D-PRE mic preamps to give best sound quality be it on stage or in the club
Hardware monitoring and mixing can be easily done.
Loopback facility enables simultaneous streaming of live performances on the internet.

Review summary

The Cubase AI for Mac and PC and the Cubase LE for i-OS (i-pad) is an additional feature that is not mostly found in other audio interfaces in this price range. Robustly built and high clarity sound makes it reliable for sound engineers who love to record on the go.

Prices/Reviews

Steinberg UR22MKII 2-channel USB

4 – Presonus Audiobox 22VSL

Features and values

Two front input channels for using mic and instrument simultaneously.
The VSL (Virtual Studio Live software) can be used with computers/laptops to get superb sound effects.
Class A XMAX mic preamp gives best-in-class sound recording experience.

Review summary

USB is bus powered, compact and rugged outer casing (steel case), 48V phantom powered; what more you can ask for in this price range? The front input channels are equipped with combo XLR mic in addition to the XMAX mic; suitably designed to provide the best recording solutions.

Prices/Reviews

Presonus Audiobox 22VSL

5 – Tascam US-2x2USB

Features and values

Two Tascam ultra HDDA mic/line preamplifiers provide a gain of 57dB with superb noise reduction.
Equipped with NE5532, a high-quality audio component designed to provide authentic sound quality without coloring. (125 dBu EIN and 105dB S/N ratio).

Review summary

Equipped with best-in-class audio specification and an additional feature of i-OS compatibility, this product is ideal for all types of recording environments (be it home, studio or mobile). MIDI in/out facility is also provided for connecting drums, synthesisers and controllers.

Prices/Reviews

Tascam US-2x2USB

The Top 5 Audio Interface under 300

Products	Connection	Total I/O	Bit Depth/Res	OS	Software
Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 (1st Gen)	USB 2.0	18/8	24 bit/96 kHz	Windows, MacOS, i-OS	Ableton Live Lite, Scarlett Plug-in Suite (RTAS/AU/VST), Red 2 & Red 3 Plug-in Suite (AAX/AU/VST), the Softube Time and Tone Bundle, Novation Bass Station
Behringer U-Phoria UMC1820	USB 2.0	18/20	24 bit/96 kHz	Windows, Mac OS	Avid Pro Tools, Ableton Live, Steinberg Cubase
Roland Quad Capture	USB 2.0	4/4	24 bit/192 kHz	Windows, Mac OS, i-OS	Ableton Live Lite, CakeWalk Sonar X1 LE
Presonus Audiobox 44VSL	USB 2.0	4/4	24 bit/96 kHz	Windows, Mac OS	Studio One Artist 3
Steinberg UR44 USB	USB 2.0	4/4	24 bit/192 kHz	Windows, Mac OS, i-OS	Cubase AI

1 – Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 (1st Generation)

Features and values

Specially designed scarlett interface for mic pres.
Comes with ADAT optical digital input system.
Equipped with Red-2 and Red-3 Plug-in suites (AAX/AU/VST); the traditional best-in-class equipment that is provided with Focusrite audio interfaces.
Rugged and robust exterior ensuring durability, even on rough usage.

Review summary

The Scarlett Mix-control, zero latency DSP-based Software Mixer and router (A focusrite trademark) is what makes this product a decent choice among users. Fully designed exterior with LED indicators at the appropriate places is a plus point of this product.

Prices/Reviews

Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 (1st Generation)

2 – Behringer U-Phoria UMC1820

Features and values

Provided with as many as 8 MIDAS mic preamps making it perfect for any purpose; home recording, songwriter team, band and stage performance etc.
The input/output is supported by S/PDIF, ADAT, S/MUX format.
The mic preamps are basically XLR/TRS inputs ensuring superior flexibility.
Additional facilities include MIDI input system and an in-built control system for perfect monitoring.

Review summary

Hassle-free connection, ultra-easy control, and compatibility with almost all top softwares are its attractive attributes. It comes with plenty of audio playbacks which makes it favorite choice for sound engineers and professional DJs. The MIDI input also makes it easy to control with the help of external keyboards.

Prices/Reviews

Behringer U-Phoria UMC1820

3 – Roland Quad Capture

Features and values

The graphical control panel gives optimum control over VS preamps.
Almost zero latency and high-class streaming driver included.
The reason for it being the number one in the list: a one-click AUTO-SENS feature which automatically sets optimum input level.
VS Streaming and low-noise power supply.

Review summary

Hi-Z switches, two combo XLR and TRS inputs along with two TRS outputs and direct box functionality make it the first choice in this price range. The unique auto-sense feature is its main reason to stand at the top alone.

Prices/Reviews

Roland Quad Capture

4 – Presonus Audiobox 44VSL

Features and values

A Class XMAX mic preamps and individual channel-trim controls.
LED indicators for clips, each channel and even synchronized for power and USB.
Analog monitoring and mixing to ensure superb control.

Review summary

Customers using this product praise its world-class sound quality, robust, rugged and compact design (no compromise on features, though), and the availability and compatibility with most of the software.

Prices/Reviews

Presonus Audiobox 44VSL

5 – Steinberg UR44

Features and values

A combination of four Neutrik analog inputs with LEDs provides a versatile range of input instrument options starting from guitar to condenser mics.
Switchable Hi-Z support gets rid of the requirement of additional DI box.
Four class-A D-PRE preamplifiers.
Comes with onboard DSP effects (VST3 versions).

Review summary

Users are satisfied with the perfect balance that it gives between portability, versatility and connectivity (includes i-pad also). The setup is durable and flexible, and a total of 6 input channels ensures a diverse range of recording situations.

Prices/Reviews

Steinberg UR44

The Top 5 Audio Interface under 500

Products	Connection	Total I/O	Bit Depth/Res	OS	Software
Focusrite Scarlett 18i20	USB 2.0	18/20	24 bit/192 kHz	Windows, Mac OS, i-OS	Pro Tools \| First Focusrite Creative Pack and Ableton Live Lite, Focusrite Control, Softube Time and Tone Bundle, Focusrite's Red Plug-in Suite
Presonus Audiobox 1818 VSL	USB 2.0	18/18	24 bit/96 kHz	Windows, Mac OS	Studio One Artist 3
Focusrite Saffire Pro 40	2 6-pin FireWire sockets	20/20	24 bit/96 kHz	Windows, Mac OS	Midnight Plug-in Suite (RTAS/AU/VST), Red 2 & Red 3 Plug-in Suite (AAX/AU/VST), and the Softube Time and Tone Bundle
Tascam US1641	USB 2.0	16/4	24 bit/96 kHz	Windows, Mac OS	Cubase 4 LE
Avid M-Box High Performance 4x4	USB 2.0	4/4	24 bit/96 kHz	Windows, Mac OS	Pro Tools, Logic, Live, Cubase

1 – Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 (2nd Gen) USB

Features and values

Eight Scarlett mic preamplifiers.
Easy monitoring configuration through focusrite control software.
Stereo S/PDIF input/output for multiple digital device connections.
ADAT expansion ports.

Review summary

Ideal for running a complete studio recording experience vis-à-vis superb sound quality. Gives lowest roundtrip latency and hence DSP is not needed.

Prices/Reviews

Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 (2nd Gen) USB

2 – Presonus audio box 1818 VSL-Advanced

Features and values

Class A XMAX preamps, separate LED clip indicator.
26×8 DSP software mixer.
Over 50 fat channel presets and equipped with StudioLive 16.0.2 software.

Review summary

PreSonus boast of great processors, and along with it, this product delivers world-class high-end sound quality. The wide range of software compatibility is also a pus point for this product.

Prices/Reviews

Presonus audio box 1818 VSL-Advanced

3 – Focusrite Saffire Pro 40 Professional

Features and values

Eight numbers of award-winning, high-class focusrite preamplifiers.
18×16 DSP mixer-cum-routers.
Focusrite VST/AU plug-in suites.
Stereo S/PDIF output on RCA.

Review summary

The best firewire audio interface available in this price range, PRO 40 can easily compete with many other firewire interfaces available at the even higher price range.

Prices/Reviews

Focusrite Saffire Pro 40 Professional

4 – Tascam US1641

Features and values

XLR mic inputs perfect for studio quality recording.
The interface is powerful enough for zero lag and disruption-free recording for performers.
Compact design and robust build; a perfect single rack set-up.

Review summary

The product comes with built-in power supply backed up by IEC connectors and users find it very convenient for portable use. Also equipped with headphone level control and optimum hardware monitoring facility which makes it a great buy in this price.

Prices/Reviews

Tascam US1641

5 – Avid M-Box High Performance 4×4

Features and values

Comes with soft-clip limiter that enables clipping-free tracking of hotter signals.
Built in guitar tuner ensures world class music performance if the instruments are tuned in properly.
The professional grade audio interface is tailored for best-in-class recording, editing and mixing.

Review summary

It’s compatibility with numerous top rated software such as fruity loop, digital performer, Cubase, logic, live etc. makes it easily suitable for diverse range of audio professionals. There is also an onboard DSP system attached which ensures superb mixing with reverbs. Can be vouched as one of the best buy in this price range.

Prices/Reviews

Avid M-Box High Performance

The Top 5 Audio Interface under 1000

Products	Connection	Total I/O	Bit Depth/Res	OS	Software
MOTU Ultralite AVB Hybrid	USB 2.0/ USB 3.0/ Universal connectivity	18/18	24 bit/192 kHz	Windows, Mac OS, i-OS	Audiodesk 4.0
Roland Studio Capture-1610	USB 2.0	16/12	24 bit/192 kHz	Windows, Mac OS	Ableton Live-Lite
Allen Heath ICE-16	USB 2.0/ Hybrid Firewire (IEE1394)	16/16	24 bit/96 kHz	Windows, Mac OS	Logic, Sonar, Cubase and Pro Tools
MOTU Traveler MK3	6-pin Firewire 800	28/30	24 bit/192 kHz	Windows, Mac OS	Audiodesk 4.0
Avid M-Box Pro High Resolution 8x8	USB 2.0/ Firewire	8/8	24 bit/192 kHz	Windows, Mac OS	Pro Tools, Logic, Live, Cubase

1 – MOTU Ultralite AVB

Features and values

Vintage modelled reverb enabled along with DSP mixing which provides control over EQ, compression, etc.
With the help of cuemix web app can be controlled from any device.
Flexible matrix routeing and splitting.

Review summary

The word “hybrid” itself is enough for the satisfaction of users as it ensures complete flexibility regarding platforms on which it will be used. Sound quality is another outstanding feature that makes it a decent choice.

Prices/Reviews

MOTU Ultralite AVB

2 – Roland studio capture

Features and values

12 premium VS mic preamps.
The best feature: one click AUTO-SENS.
Four independent and software-controlled monitor mixes.
XLR-powered output with independent front-panel level knobs.
Comes with two Studio Captures controlled with a single driver.

Review summary

With all the modern and up-to-date technical specification, specially designed for top quality audio production, this product is gaining popularity fast in this price range. The auto-sense and the high-performance studio capture feature being its primary reason for being on this list.

Prices/Reviews

Roland studio capture

3 – Allen Heath ICE-16 16 Channel Multitrack Recorder with USB/FireWire Interface

Features and values

Front USB socket is enabling easy storage of recording to storage devices.
Separate metering on each channel, owing to the availability of peak LED.
Daisy chain multiple units
Instinctive control and user-friendly control buttons.

Review summary

Allen & Health retains a formidable image in the market of audio interfaces with this product. Users are satisfied with the superior sound quality and plenty of features available with the product.

Prices/Reviews

Allen Heath ICE-16 16 Channel Multitrack Recorder

4 – Motu traveler MK3 Firewire

Features and values

“Traveler” is justified by the light weight and sturdy construction.
Built-in SMPTE time code
Comes with cuemix FX software which gives onboard DSP effects and classic reverbs.
Separate channels for all I/O ensuring superior control and monitoring.

Review summary

One of the best buys in this price range, considering the vast range of facilities associated with this product. Not getting deep into the technicalities, it will suffice to say that this product is the complete solution to all kinds of sound engineering and recording needs.

Prices/Reviews

Motu traveler MK3 Firewire

5 – Audio M-Box Pro High Resolution 8×8

Features and values

Pro-tools plus M-Box Pro; a perfect combo for creating professional quality music and audio compostions.
Stocked with high-tech pro-tools software and powered by 5.1 surround monitoring facility.
Automatic compensation of audio delays is also available; a feature which is rare in most top-class audio interfaces.

Review summary

Users find this product extremely helpful in enhancing their creativity as the pro-tools software enables easy experimentation and superior sound mixing. Another reason for this product to be in this list is its multi-connectivity and flexibility in workflow.

Prices/Reviews

Audio M-Box Pro High Resolution 8×8

What are the Best DAW Software?

DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) is a major and crucial area you need to be aware of while selecting your audio interface. Let’s look at a list of top 5 DAWs available in the market:

Presonus Studio One 3

Presonus made its mark in the audio industry by manufacturing hardware only (e.g. audio interface, mixers, etc.). But down the years, with the help of top DAW developer namely Steinberg Cubase, PreSonus launched its first DAW “Studio One” in 2009 and had strived its way to the top ever since. This Studio One 3 is undoubtedly the best version till date given by persons and has outstanding features to maintain its number one spot

Cakewalk SONAR

Despite being a Windows only software, Cakewalk Sonar is in this list undoubtedly because it offers some exceptional features which others don’t have. The notable plus points are the affordability of X3 and Studio version, and unlike most other DAW, it doesn’t need complicated USB for unlocking. Instead, a simple serial key is enough. These attributes along with some other such as ease-of-use etc. make it a serious competition at number two

Ableton Live

Originally developed for live performances only, Ableton live later on expanded itself into complete recording software. Ever since, Ableton Live produced some of the finest DAW software (e.g. Ableton Push 2, Ableton Live Lite 9, etc.) and had made a formidable name in the business. Compatible with most of the 3rd party hardware available, Ableton Live is a fair competitor in the third position

Apple GarageBand

Apple launched their DAW software named GarageBand a couple of years ago and it can vouched as the most user-friendly DAW software you can find. The sequencing of audio loops along with a healthy collection of instrumental sounds, GarageBand is a decent buy for a new musician who uses Apple host systems

Steinberg Cubase Pro

Since the advent of music recording, mixing, plug-in effects, etc., Steinberg Cubase has been around in the top 5 list without fail. Cubase is a decent choice for a musician of any level (beginner, intermediate, professional) owing to its quick, easy-to-use functionality and a vast range of other technical features. Their best product till date is undoubtedly the Cubase Pro 8

FAQ

1. Does the focusrite scarlett version products comes with XLR cables?

No, it does not mandatorily comes with the product. But you can bring it if you order for it online in their website. They might gift you with a 15’ Proco Stagemaster Cable free with it.

2. What is the difference between 1st gen and 2nd gen Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 models?

The 2nd gen comes with better preamp, converter and build quality than the 1st gen. if your computer’s speed is supporting its capabilities, the new control panel can even let you track your recordings. Ableton live lite and pro-tools are of higher version than the older version.

3. Does the Presonus Audiobox work fine in Windows 8 or higher version?

According to the technical specifications mentioned in the manual, it should work fine. But most user has reported that the experience was not pleasant. However, if the product is sent back to the company, they tune it properly to work smoothly in higher versions of windows.

4. Is translation of MIDI data into sound and eventual loading of this sound to DAW possible in Steinberg UR22?

All these facilities are available in all UR series products from Steinberg provided your host system supports these technicalities.

5. Do these Audio Interfaces come with software limitations?

Software limitation is inevitable when it comes to audio interfaces, though most of the top models come with access to more than enough DAW software. In addition to the in-built software, the complete package of most audio interface includes plenty of software keys and hence nowadays software limitation is not an issue to worry about.

Conclusion

In a nutshell, all these feature descriptions and comparisons of technical specifications of best audio interfaces under different price range are done so that you find it easier to select which user interface best suits your requirement and budget next time you plan to buy one. It is imperative that you must be precisely aware of your needs, situations and other related conditions before opting for any of these products mentioned above.