10 Best Audio Interface 2026 in the United States

The Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen is a solid choice for musicians, songwriters, guitarists, and content creators who want a reliable and versatile audio interface for studio-quality recording. It offers a good balance of inputs and outputs with 2 mic preamps, 2 high-impedance instrument inputs, plus 4 line inputs and outputs, making it flexible for connecting mics, guitars, synths, and drum machines. Using a USB-C connection, it provides seamless compatibility with both Mac and Windows systems. The interface delivers excellent sound quality thanks to high-end converters and a wide dynamic range (120dB), which helps capture clear and detailed recordings. Its preamps include Focusrite’s signature “Air” mode, enhancing vocals and guitars with a pleasant brightness.

Features like Auto Gain and Clip Safe help simplify recording by automatically setting levels and preventing distortion. The unit also supports phantom power for condenser mics, a must-have for many recording setups. In terms of build, the aluminum body feels sturdy yet compact and portable enough for home or mobile studios. Latency is low, ensuring real-time monitoring without annoying delays. Although the 4i4 is not the most extensive option in terms of channels, it suits solo artists or small bands who need multiple inputs without going overboard. For those seeking straightforward setup, professional sound, and solid build quality without complexity, this interface meets those needs well.

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB Audio Interface stands out in the audio interface category, particularly for those looking to record music, stream, or podcast. With two inputs and high-quality preamps, it allows you to connect both a microphone and an instrument simultaneously, making it versatile for musicians and content creators alike. The studio-quality sound it delivers is impressive, thanks to a dynamic range of 120dB and the inclusion of advanced features like Auto Gain and Clip Safe, which help ensure that your recordings are clean and professional without the worry of distortion.

One of the key advantages of the Scarlett 2i2 is its build quality; it's made from durable aluminum, which adds to its portability. Weighing just 1.73 pounds and compact in size, it’s easy to transport for on-the-go recording sessions. Additionally, it comes bundled with a comprehensive software package, including plugins that cater to beginners and experienced users, making it a great entry point for those new to recording.

There are some considerations to keep in mind. While it has solid performance, it only offers two channels, which may not be sufficient for users who need to record multiple instruments or vocals at once. Also, while the USB-C connection is modern and efficient, it requires a compatible cable, which may not be included in every setup. Lastly, although the latency is relatively low, some users might still experience slight delays, particularly in more complex recording situations.

The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen USB Audio Interface is a versatile and high-quality option for those involved in multitrack recording, music production, and podcasting. This interface boasts a generous 18 inputs and 20 outputs, including eight high-quality mic preamps, which are essential for capturing detailed and professional-grade audio. Its USB-C connectivity ensures compatibility with a range of devices, including Mac, Windows, and iOS systems. The unit supports 24-bit/192kHz audio conversion, delivering exceptional sound clarity and a wide dynamic range, which is crucial for high-fidelity recordings.

The inclusion of phantom power is a great benefit for users who need to power condenser microphones directly from the interface. Additionally, the Auto Gain and Clip Safe features help maintain optimal recording levels and prevent distortion, making it user-friendly even for those not highly experienced in audio engineering. Another significant advantage is the suite of software that comes bundled with the interface, including Pro Tools Intro+, Ableton Live Lite, and other production tools, which provides a complete package for getting started with recording and mixing.

At 8.04 pounds, the unit might be slightly heavy for those requiring a highly portable setup, and its dimensions could be cumbersome in a compact studio environment. Despite this, the robust aluminum construction ensures durability. The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen is ideal for users looking for a comprehensive, high-quality audio interface for complex recording setups.