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 Solo 4th Gen USB Audio Interface is well-suited for musicians, vocalists, and producers seeking high-quality recordings in a compact form. With its two channels, this interface allows you to connect both a microphone and an instrument simultaneously, making it ideal for live performances and studio recordings alike. The USB-C connectivity ensures fast and reliable connections to various devices, including computers and tablets. One of its standout features is the impressive 120dB dynamic range, which brings studio-level sound quality to any recording setting. The improved Air mode also enhances the presence of both vocals and guitars, giving your recordings a more professional sound. Additionally, the included software package offers everything from recording to mixing, which is a big plus for beginners and experienced users alike.

The Scarlett Solo is portable and lightweight, making it easy to transport. While it has one XLR input and one instrument input, it may be more suitable for solo artists or small home studio setups. Latency is generally low, which is advantageous when recording.

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen is a fantastic choice for solo artists or small home studio setups, delivering excellent audio quality and user-friendly features, though its limited input options may not cater to those with more extensive recording needs.

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.