Audio Interface Test - Comparisons. Com 2024

The best audio interfaces in comparison

Audio interface in the test - professional recordings in your recording studio!

An audio interface is essential for anyone who makes good sound recordings. In the audio interface comparison you will find out what you should know.

Which audio interface is the best? Of course, it all depends on your needs. For the beginner, a simplified 2x2 interface is often sufficient. These are usually very cheap and offer the necessary functions to get started. But if you want to use more professional musical equipment or want to make larger recordings, you should opt for a larger and more powerful interface. Whether you are a beginner or a professional – a good one Audio-Interface is essential if you want to produce or record music professionally. We introduce you to the best interfaces!

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  Best recommendation

1,5Excellent

Audio Interface Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen
  •  2 headphone sockets | switchable air function | wide range of connections
 

1,6good

Audio Interface Focusrite Clarett Pre USB 10 In / Out Clarett 2Pre USB
  •  digital audio input | Housing made of brushed stainless steel | Air microphone preamplifier
 

1,7good

Audio interface ZOOM UAC-2
  •  insensitive to computer jitter | USB bus power supply | compatible with the well-known ADF
 

1,8good

Audio Interface Steinberg UR44 (4x XLR / 6,35mm, USB 2.0)
  •  2-way headphone output | subsequently with high-quality effects | processing
Price-performance winner

1,9good

Audio Interface M-Audio AIR 192 | 6 - 2-in-2-out audio MIDI interface
  •  large software package including | clear control panel | 2 instrument inputs on the front
Name Audio Interface Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen Audio Interface Focusrite Clarett Pre USB 10 In / Out Clarett 2Pre USB Audio interface ZOOM UAC-2 Audio Interface Steinberg UR44 (4x XLR / 6,35mm, USB 2.0) Audio Interface M-Audio AIR 192 | 6 - 2-in-2-out audio MIDI interface
Price Check price Check price Check price Check price Check price
comparison result
Note on the comparative grade

The Best Suggestionstest-vergleiche.com1,5ExcellentAudio interface

TOP Productstest-vergleiche.com1,6goodAudio interface

TOP Productstest-vergleiche.com1,7goodAudio interface

TOP Productstest-vergleiche.com1,8goodAudio interface

Best Performance test-vergleiche.com1,9goodAudio interface

Manufacturers Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd gen Focusrite Clarett 2 Pre USB Zoom UAC-2 Steinberg UR44 M-Audio AIR 192
inputs 4x XLR / jack 6.3 mm combo1x S / PDIF1x TOSLink 2x XLR / jack 6.3 mm combo 1x TOSLink 2x XLR / jack 6.3 mm combo 4x XLR / jack 6.3 mm combo 1x 6.3 mm line input 2x XLR / jack 6.3 mm combo 2x 6.3 mm line input
Connection USB (Type-C) USB (Type-C) USB (3.0) USB (2.0) USB (Type-C)
outputs 4x 6.3 mm line output 1x S / PDIF 2x 6.3 mm line output 1x 6.3 mm line output 3x 6.3 mm line output 1x 6.3 mm line output
Headphone output Ja Ja Ja Ja Ja
Resolution 24-bit | 192 kHz 24-bit | 192 kHz x 24 bit | 192 kHz 24-bit | 192 kHz
Phantom power (48V) Ja Ja Ja Ja Ja
Direct monitoring Ja Ja Ja Ja Ja
Size: 24 x 16 x 6 cm 21 x 16 x 5.5 cm 17.6 x 11 x 4.6 cm 25 x 16 x 4.7 cm 20 x 15 x 7 cm
Power supply connector Ja Ja Ja Ja Ja
Weight 2.200 g 1.410 g 714 g 1.200 g 1.340 g
MIDI In/Out Ja Ja Ja Ja Ja
Clip / peak LEDs Ja Ja Ja Ja Ja
Benefits
  •  2 headphone sockets | switchable air function | wide range of connections
  •  digital audio input | Housing made of brushed stainless steel | Air microphone preamplifier
  •  insensitive to computer jitter | USB bus power supply | compatible with the well-known ADF
  •  2-way headphone output | subsequently with high-quality effects | processing
  •  large software package including | clear control panel | 2 instrument inputs on the front
To the Amazon offer

Our comparison chart for Audio interface comparison does not replace one Audio interface testin which a special Audio interface test winner can be recommended. In order to increase the added value for our readers, we may link to an external audio interface test from trustworthy sources. Only you decide which model is your personal Audio interface test winner is.

Audio interface

Audio interface at a glance

  • An audio interface is an external sound card that is connected to the PC (or laptop or tablet PC). The audio interface converts analogue signals from external sources such as microphones or instruments into digital signals so that they can be read and processed by computers.
  • The audio interface is an external sound card that is often connected to the computer via a USB cable. There are hundreds of different products on the market. An audio interface test report helps to find the right model.
  • Stiftung Warentest has not yet carried out any tests for products in the Audio Interface category. However, you can find an audio interface test winner on a price comparison website. The products have been tested by well-known computer magazines.

Computers have fundamentally changed everyday life. They are very versatile. Users can use it to surf the Internet, chat in real time or make video calls. Thousands of radio and TV stations, even from the other side of the world, can be received in HD or stereo quality with the help of the computer. Signals from external sources can also be recorded with the PC. If you make music yourself and also want to record it, you will quickly find that the PC has reached its limits. As the audio interface test proves, you can't get any further without a component called an audio interface.

 




Top product: Audio Interface at Amazon

Services
Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB audio interface for recording, production and sound engineering applications - high-fidelity, studio-quality recordings with...
  • Professional performance with four of the finest mic preamps - Thanks to the 18i8's four mic preamps, you'll sound...
  • Session Recordings in Any Space - Draw multiple instruments directly and simultaneously across the eight available...
  • Crystal-clear studio-quality playback - Scarlett's top-of-the-line converters let you produce professional-sounding...
  • Achieve the perfect guitar recording - With the two clip-proof instrument inputs, you don't need...
  • All the tools you need to start recording straight away - With the Hitmaker Expansion, we've taken on our favorite...

How does an audio interface work?

The audio interface is an interface with various inputs and outputs. It is connected to the computer via a USB cable or a FireWire. The inputs are also called inputs. For example, microphones or instruments or even a mixer are connected to them. Certain characteristics of the sound sources can be changed directly on the interface using controls. The heart of the audio interface is the sound processing processor. In IT, the component is called the A/S converter. It converts the analog signals from the input into digital ones that can be read, processed and stored by the computer. The outputs forward the signals to the computer. Others, on the other hand, are used to connect headphones or loudspeakers.

Audio interface

Why do you need an audio interface?

The question is obvious, because it is basically possible to connect an instrument or a microphone directly to the computer in order to record singing or music. That's true, but only in part. Every modern computer has an integrated sound card, but it is not very powerful. It can play a maximum of one YouTube video or play one audio file. However, the sound quality is limited. If you want to record your own music, you will notice the limitations of the onboard sound card even more clearly. This means that only one channel can be recorded at a time, for example only vocals or an instrumental piece, not both at the same time. In the Audio Interface test report, even the simplest products achieved better results. With 2 inputs you can record sound from 2 microphones at the same time, for example 2 speakers on a podcast or vocals accompanied by a guitar. Audio Interface Bestsellers even allow the recording of an entire orchestra with the highest sound quality.

Audio interface advantages / disadvantages

Benefits

The recording and playing of audio files is in high

sound quality possible.

Multiple sound sources can be recorded simultaneously.

Mobile use is also possible.

Integrated controllers allow direct adjustment of various values.

Disadvantages

Good devices are not exactly cheap.

Computer and audio interface must be compatible.

Depending on the model, an additional power supply may be required.

Who Needs an Audio Interface?

If you are concerned with sound in any way, you should seriously consider buying an audio interface. You need the device, for example, if you are a musician and want to record your singing and the accompanying music. Even if you run your own YouTube channel or regularly stream podcasts on the Internet, you cannot avoid an audio interface. Even enthusiastic gamers benefit from an audio interface. With its help, they experience unadulterated sound or can talk to their fellow players via microphone and also stream the event.

Focusrite Scarlett audio interface

Focusrite Scarlett audio interface

Audio Interface Buyer's Guide- Which Device is Best?

A whole series of criteria play a role in the audio interface purchase recommendation.

  • Connections

This is one of the most important points, because different instruments or devices require different connections. In most cases, microphones require an XLR connection, while a synthesizer must be connected to a 6,3 mm jack socket. A combination connection is used for the electric guitar and microphone. The combo socket combines a Hi-Z input with an XLR input. Condenser microphones require additional phantom power, usually 48 volts, for which inputs must also be available. Many microphones have a rather weak sound. That's why inputs are needed to connect preamplifiers.

  • Suggestions

Before you buy, find out which devices or instruments can be connected to the audio interface.

  • Kanäle

In the type designation you can see how many inputs and outputs the device has. The number of inputs is always at the beginning, followed by the number of outputs. Crucial to this criterion is how many channels the audio interface supports at the same time. For example, simple devices have 2 inputs and 2 outputs and support 2 channels at the same time.

  • Compatibility

When purchasing, make sure that the audio interface is compatible with your computer's operating system. If your PC is still running an older version of Windows, it may not support the audio interface. The same applies to the MacOS for Apple computers. If your PC uses Linux, inquire beforehand whether you can use the audio interface.

  • Software

In the audio interface purchase recommendation, the included software is an important point. Good devices come with an extensive software package that allows you to edit your audio files. Inexpensive devices, on the other hand, often have a maximum of 3 programs pre-installed.

  • Power Supply

Audio interface devices that are suitable for mobile use do not have a separate power supply. In this category of devices, this is done via the USB cable. Audio interfaces for studio use, on the other hand, have their own power supply. These devices cannot be used mobile.

  • application

When buying, pay attention to good workmanship. High-quality audio interfaces have a tightly fitting metal housing. Cheap devices, on the other hand, often only have a plastic housing with large gaps. This allows dust and dirt to get inside and impair the function or even destroy the device.

Audio Interface Bestsellers on Amazon:

Bestseller no. 1
L'Amour a Paris [Vinyl LP]
  • Audience Rating: Approved without age limit
Bestseller no. 2
LENVII USB-C audio interface for PC and Mac, 24Bit/192kHz high fidelity for professional recordings, podcasting, streaming, with XLR/48V phantom power for MIC,...
  • 【High-quality audio conversion】Studio-grade converters enable recording and playback of up to 24bit/192kHz. The...
  • 【Combo inputs & outputs】Guitar audio interface has 2i2 sockets: 2 combo XLR/MIC/LINE inputs with phantom power for guitar, ...
  • 【Mic Pre-amplifier & 48V Phantom Power】 The built-in microphone preamplifier is comparable to independent ...
  • 【Ultra-Low Latency & Direct Monitor】Enjoy lag-free listening and recording thanks to the ultra-low ...
  • 【Excellent Compatibility】The XLR audio interface supports Mac OS and Windows XP or higher. It is compatible with many...
Bestseller no. 3
HIRESFI ISAR540 USB Isolator ADuM4160 - Suppression filter for 48kHz DACs Ultra Low Noise 400mA 2Watt
  • ISAR540 creates a new ground for an undisturbed music experience
  • DANGER! Only for DACs that transmit audio up to a maximum of 48kHz sampling frequency - Analog Devices ADuM4160
  • With muRata NXE2 ultra-low-noise DC-DC converter 2000mW = 400mA @ 5V and only 55mV/5mV pp output ripple
  • Runs on USB full speed 12Mb/s (48kHz DAC and Rocksmith cable work)
  • Does NOT run on USB High Speed. For USB Hi-Speed ​​they use ISAR740 instead.

How much does an audio interface cost and what does the offer look like?

In Germany there are currently around 430 products in the audio interface category available for purchase. The audio interface price comparison shows that there are cheap devices for mobile use for less than 20 EUR. However, such entry-level devices hardly play a role in the audio interface rating. In the upper price range you have to spend more than 5.000 euros for an audio interface. However, devices in this category are more suitable for professional music studios. On average, you have to plan around 100 - 600 EUR in your budget for an audio interface. Audio interfaces, which received the best opinions from buyers, cost from around 80 EUR.

The products come from more than 90 manufacturers. The most important include:

- RME with 41 devices

- Motu with 29 devices

- Focusrite with 25 devices

- Universal Audio with 22 devices

- Yamaha with 21 devices

Most audio interfaces (more than 200) can be connected to the computer via USB. They are suitable for home recordings and also for professional recording studios.

Where should you buy the audio interface?

We recommend buying from a good online shop. The advantages are obvious. The range is extensive. You can compare the different devices with a mouse click. For each audio interface there are detailed product descriptions and links that lead to audio interface reviews or information about audio interface bestsellers. If you are unsure which of the devices is best for you, you can request personal advice by phone or email, and increasingly also via live chat.

In contrast to a branch store, the online shop is always open. You can shop there from the comfort of your own home, whenever you want. The products are delivered to you at home. The shipping fees are low, and shipping is often even free of charge.

Audio interface

Questions and answers (FAQ) on the audio interface comparison

An audio interface "translates" audio signals from electronic instruments or microphones so that they can be recorded by the computer. An audio interface can also send signals from a PC, Mac & Co. to loudspeakers, headphones or other external devices, for example.

In general, you always need an audio interface when a computer, smartphone or tablet is involved and the onboard sound card is reaching its limits. And you will soon notice these limitations: singers and songwriters want to connect a microphone or two and possibly record the session.

Laney IRT pulses. The only audio interface (guitar) whose preamplification is realized with vacuum tubes. This provides saturation to strain to taste. The device is compatible with Windows, Mac OS, iOS and Android.

Quick guide Connecting the audio interface to the computer Download the driver for the interface (manufacturer's website) and install it. Connect the audio interface to the computer (avoid USB hubs) Select the interface as the output device in the operating system. In the DAW, select the audio interface as input and output device.

Audio interface conclusion

An audio interface is an external sound card. You need the device if you work with sound recordings professionally or as an amateur. Although every computer has an integrated sound card, its performance is very limited. Since the range is very large and the differences in quality are enormous, it is advisable to take audio interface purchase advice. It is best to buy the device from a reputable online shop. There you will find the largest selection at reasonable prices. The right audio interface for your requirements is sure to be among them. Just make sure you stop by!

What kind of product did the audio interface compare by Test-Vergleiche.com earned a top spot?

The product took the top spot in our ranking Audio Interface Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen earned and placed the crown among all other, also very good products.

Who has from the manufacturers Test-Vergleiche.com given a place in its audio interface comparison?

For our audio interface comparison, we focused on a number of reputable manufacturers. Here you can see products from the manufacturers Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd gen, Focusrite Clarett 2 Pre USB, Zoom UAC-2, Steinberg UR44 and M-Audio AIR 192. This gives you a representative overview of the best products.

Which article was in the audio interface comparison of Test-Vergleiche.com Comparison of the price-performance winners?

For our price-conscious customers, we always select an item with the best price-performance ratio in the audio interface comparison. In this comparison, the Audio Interface M-Audio AIR 192 | 6 - 2-in-2-out audio MIDI interface Price-performance winner.

How expensive can the audio interfaces be in this one? Test-Vergleiche.com Comparison are presented?

Quality has its price. That is why you will find high quality products for you up to 377,00 € but also have to spend cheaper alternatives at a lower price 132,00 €.

Which audio interface manufacturer was tested with which audio interface products by the editors of Test-Vergleiche.com included?

In what order did the editors of Test-Vergleiche.com prized the Audio Interface article?

We research objectively, competently and independently of industry, media & Co. In our audio interface comparison, customer experiences, our own test results and possible evaluations by Stiftung Warentest have led to this ranking: Rank 1 was given to the article Audio Interface Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen, followed by Audio Interface Focusrite Clarett Pre USB 10 In / Out Clarett 2Pre USB, Audio interface ZOOM UAC-2, Audio Interface Steinberg UR44 (4x XLR / 6,35mm, USB 2.0) and Audio Interface M-Audio AIR 192 | 6 - 2-in-2-out audio MIDI interface.

Which top products belong next to number 1 and the price-performance winner in the audio interface comparison of Test-Vergleiche.com?

Our audio interface comparison is mostly based on 5 different bestsellers, of which our editors choose one for 1st place and one gets the rating as a price-performance winner. The other three Audio Interface Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen, Audio Interface Focusrite Clarett Pre USB 10 In / Out Clarett 2Pre USB and Audio interface ZOOM UAC-2 but are at least as good, but only one can be the winner.

Jonas
Author test-vergleiche.com

Updated January 13, 2024

Audio Interface Test & Comparison Guide – Your guide to the optimal product

Discover in our Audio Interface test and comparison guidehow to choose the perfect product for your needs.

Greetings from the world of nature! My name is Jonas, an enthusiastic hobby mountaineer, cyclist and angler. Mine leisure I often spend time in the most beautiful camping areas in the world. In addition to my passion for outdoor activities, I am also interested in sporting events and, thanks to my professional work in the automotive industry, in cars and motorcycles.

As an experienced author at Beste-Testsieger.de, where I go for the main categories DIY & Tools, leisure, Drug Store, Budget, Electronics, Home & Living, Fashion and Cars & Motorcycles My greatest concern is to share my passions with you. I hope you find exciting suggestions and inspiration in my audio interface comparison.

My carefully compiled table offers you an overview of the top 5 audio interface bestsellers. The basis of my selection is sales figures, survey results, audio interface test reports and customer reviews.

I also keep an eye out for tests from Stiftung Warentest and share the results in my guide. My goal is to make the cost-benefit factor of the products clear to you to make your decision easier.

I would really appreciate your feedback. Please feel free to share your experiences - my portal at Beste-Testsieger.de and its wide range of categories is available to you around the clock.

Further links and sources too Audio interface

Wikipedia Audio interface

Further information about our article can be found under Wikipedia, a platform of the most popular free encyclopedias on the Internet. Here you will learn a lot of interesting facts and information about our selection on the Audio interface to look up.

Youtube Audio interface

If you are on the YouTube video portal real and concrete information about our products Audio interface search, this source of information gives you direct access to the appropriate video clips.

Amazon Audio interface

On the platform of Amazon You can discover almost every product you want to buy online. So you will find this too Audio interface Product on Amazon. At the same time, many more articles can be found for your search on this portal.

Ebay Audio interface

Ebay is one of the world's largest online marketplaces where you can also discover our articles. Next to the Audio interface from commercial traders you will also find the Audio interface as used items from private sellers

Best recommendation

Audio Interface Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen

4.9 / 5 - (113 votes)
Price-performance winner

Audio Interface M-Audio AIR 192 | 6 - 2-in-2-out audio MIDI interface

4.7 / 5 - (83 votes)

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