What are the Best USB audio Interfaces in 2024?
I mentioned mixers before, but there is another great way to hook up multiple microphones – and that’s with a USB audio interface. There are a ton of options depending on how many mics (and instruments) you want to hook up, but we have got the the list of Best USB Audio Interface so you can easily choose what works for you… I don’t want you to fall in paradox of choice. So, today we will talk about only 5 Best USB Audio Interfaces.
In this round up-
Audient is one of those companies that doesn’t advertise as much as focusrite, universal audio, antelope, but they are at that class if not better. Being a fan of the EVO 4 and the EVO 8 by Audient, I can vouch for the quality of their preamps. However, the build quality and the interaction with iOS devices, particularly the knobs, on the EVO 4 and EVO 8, left some room for improvement. The iD4 Mark II addresses these concerns effectively.
Input and Output Specifications
The iD4 Mark II by Audient features two inputs and two outputs, with a sturdy construction and USB Type-C connectivity, similar to the EVO series. It includes one mic/line input with a 48V phantom power button and a JFET instrument input. Additionally, it boasts dual headphone outputs, capable of supporting high-powered headphones requiring substantial gain. The device also provides metal gain knobs for both the mic and instrument inputs, and a monitor mix knob that allows precise adjustment of input levels from your microphone and DAW.
Main Knob and Functionality
One feature is the main knob, which performs various functions, especially if used with computers. Pressing the iD button lights it up and enables different features on a laptop or Mac. However, this functionality doesn’t extend to the iPad. The Audient iD4 MKII USB-c Audio interface also includes a convenient mute switch.
Build Quality and Preamps
In terms of convenience, build quality, and preamps, the Audient iD4 MKII USB-c Audio interface outperforms the EVO 4 and EVO 8, offering extremely low noise and distortion for excellent audio quality. After using the iD4 Mark II for several weeks, I’ve found it a compelling replacement for my EVO 4 due to its durability and simplicity, making it a worthwhile investment at $199.
We’re now reviewing the Sterling Audio Harmony H224 audio interface. The Sterling Audio H224 is a 24-bit, 192kHz one of the Best USB C audio interfaces. Its metal body has a console-like desktop design that will sit nicely on your desk.
Overview of Harmony H.224 Audio Interface
The Sterling Audio Harmony h224 USB Interface is a 4-input, 4-output audio interface capable of up to 192 kilohertz, which is impressive for a sample rate. You typically don’t need to run that high, it’s an option if you need it. It’s a bus-powered interface via USB-C and costs around $150.
Key Features
Full MIDI Capability and Analog Outputs
Key features include full MIDI capability in and out, and four quarter-inch analog outputs, making it possible to get into re-amping guitar tracks without using main monitor outputs. This is rare in the $150 price range.
Build Quality
The Sterling Audio Harmony h224 USB Interface has an all-metal housing, which makes it somewhat heavy but in a good way. It feels substantial and well-built, unlike lighter, cheaper interfaces. The knob and tactile functions are well-placed and feel great.
Input and Preamp Specifications
Rear and Front Panel Inputs
The H.224 has two XLR quarter-inch combo jacks on the rear panel and two quarter-inch high-Z instrument inputs on the front panel. The XLR inputs utilize Sterling’s NXS class A preamps.
One of the greatest audio interfaces, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo, is highly regarded and has received a 4.5 rating from more than 24,000 reviews on Amazon. It is a favorite among both novice and seasoned users due to its features, build quality, sound quality, and cost.
Packaging and Build Quality
In the box, you’ll find the Scarlett Solo interface, a USB C to USB A cable, and some documentation. The interface itself is housed in a sturdy, brushed metal body that adds a bit of weight but ensures durability. The front and back panels feature a glossy finish, though they attract fingerprints easily.
Inputs and Controls
On the front of the Scarlett Solo:
On the back:
My Client Rachel Initially, acquired it after purchasing the UMC404HD, expanding her setup to a second PC. Despite trying other, more expensive options, Rachel found none could compete with the simplicity of the UMC204HD. In her experience, it’s ideal for both beginners and seasoned creators.
The more connections, the more control you need to maintain. She suggests checking output levels if you’re not getting the desired sound and notes that hisses typically stem from instruments or mixers set at too high a level.
Now that her son has started exploring multimedia production, Rachel plans to gift him the same interface, confident in its reliability.
Build Quality and Features of Behringer UMC204HD
The Behringer UMC204HD exceeded Rachel’s expectations in terms of size, construction, and sound quality. She had previously used a Mackie Blackjack interface, which worked flawlessly with her Mac but lacked ASIO drivers for Windows 10, prompting her switch to Behringer.
The UMC204HD offers excellent flexibility at both basic and advanced levels. On one end, you can connect a microphone and a guitar, while on the other, you can hook up an entire band’s instruments through a mixer like the Xenyx QX1222USB and input the stereo signal into your DAW.
Sound Quality and Performance of Behringer UMC204HD
Rachel had no issues setting up the UMC204HD with both Ableton Live and Reaper, praising its sound quality. She ran vocal tests with a condenser microphone, noting a neutral track with no hiss or elevated frequencies. A/B comparisons with tracks recorded on her older Mackie Blackjack showed minimal difference in audio quality.
While Rachel is overall satisfied, she did mention a slight hiss in the headphone output when using AKG K240 headphones. However, this noise was limited to the headphone amp and did not affect recorded audio.
I surveyed some users on this, Many users have faced issues when purchasing the Apollo Twin X Duo thunderbolt version for their Windows computers, especially when it comes to compatibility with laptops. However, my client, James, confirms that it does work on Windows desktops, provided the system has Thunderbolt 3 or 4 support, not just USB-C.
For example, James used an Asus motherboard (PRIME Z490-A) and installed an Asus Thunderboltex 4 physical card to ensure compatibility. After configuring the BIOS properly, the Apollo Twin X worked flawlessly on James’ system. He successfully recorded in Pro Tools and produced in FL Studio. However, He noted that the device struggles in FL Studio unless switched to ASIO4ALL, with the Apollo device handling the in/out audio. Unfortunately, recording still remains a challenge in FL Studio, which is why James primarily uses Pro Tools.
In summary, the Apollo Twin X works on Windows desktops but requires Thunderbolt 3 compatibility. Users should double-check their system specifications before purchasing the device for a Windows-based setup.
Build Quality and Design of Apollo Twin X QUAD
The Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition impresses users with its solid build and sleek design. The device is described as “absolutely stunning,” with high-quality construction and a thoughtful design that functions as a heat sink. The design allows for efficient thermal management, though some users note it runs “hot, but that’s because the entire thing is designed to be used as a heat sink.”
I have discussed about these Audio Interfaces in detail in my full article on Best USB audio Interface in 2024. Click the link to Read.
In this comparison of USB audio interfaces, five standout options: the Audient iD4 MKII, the Sterling Audio Harmony H224, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd gen, Behringer U-Phoria UMC204HD and Universal Audio Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage. Each device shows their unique features and benefits to cater to different user needs and preferences and claims to be the Best USB Audio Interface in the World.
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