AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best USB Audio Interfaces Under $1,000 2026
The top pick is Arturia MiniFuse 2 USB-C Audio Interface ($144). Arturia MiniFuse 1 USB-C Audio Interface gives you the most for the money at $97. Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen USB Audio Interface leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 172 models across 49 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 14, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Arturia MiniFuse 2 USB-C Audio Interface
MiniFuse 2 White · Arturia
83 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Weight0.5 kg
The MiniFuse 2 White is a seriously capable little interface. It’s a fantastic entry point for singer-songwriters, podcasters, or anyone needing a simple, reliable way to record. The included software is a huge bonus, making it a very attractive package for beginners or those needing a portable recording solution.
Pros
- Solid build quality for the price point; feels surprisingly robust.
- Excellent software bundle provides immediate creative tools.
- Clean, transparent preamps suitable for a wide range of vocal and instrument sources.
Cons
- Limited input count restricts recording larger ensembles or multiple sources simultaneously.
- USB-A hub power output is restrictive for some MIDI controllers.
84AudioFu
Index↓ 7.2%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$156 · Aug 14$144 now$144€129 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
IK Multimedia AXE I/
O USB Audio Interface AXE I/O · IK Multimedia
44 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size4"
- Weight1.3 kg
The AXE I/O is a solid choice for guitarists and bassists focused on direct recording and re-amping. The Z-Tone feature is genuinely useful for adding subtle character, and the discrete preamps provide a clean, professional sound. It's a well-rounded package for home recording and smaller studio setups.
Pros
- Z-Tone circuit adds unique harmonic character and tonal flexibility.
- Discrete Class A preamps deliver clean gain with excellent headroom.
- Front-panel amp output simplifies re-amping workflows significantly.
Cons
- USB 2.0 connection limits bandwidth compared to newer interfaces.
- Limited expandability; lacks ADAT or other digital I/O options.
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Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen USB Audio Interface
Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen · Focusrite
54 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
- Weight3.304 kg
The 18i20 4th Gen is a seriously capable interface for bands and project studios. It nails the balance between channel count, clean preamps, and a user-friendly software suite. If you’re tracking multiple sources simultaneously, this is a fantastic, premium-priced solution that won't leave you wanting for I/O.
Pros
- Excellent preamps deliver clean, detailed sound with Focusrite's signature warmth.
- The comprehensive I/O count simplifies complex recording setups considerably.
- Air mode subtly enhances vocals and instruments with pleasing harmonic richness.
Cons
- The USB 2.0 connection feels dated; USB 3.0 would offer more headroom.
- The 19” rackmount format limits desktop use; requires rack space or adapter.
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Arturia MiniFuse 1 USB-C Audio Interface
MiniFuse 1 White · Arturia
57 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Weight0.4 kg
The MiniFuse 1 White is a surprisingly capable little interface. It’s perfect for singer-songwriters, podcasters, or anyone needing a simple, portable recording solution with a great software suite. The clean preamps and robust build make it a fantastic entry point into Arturia's ecosystem.
Pros
- Excellent value, packed with useful software bundles.
- Compact and portable design; ideal for travel or small spaces.
- Clean, transparent preamps suitable for a wide range of vocal and instrument sources.
Cons
- Limited I/O; only one XLR/TRS combo input restricts multi-mic recording.
- USB bus-powered, so may struggle with power-hungry external devices.
78AudioFu
Index↓ 9.4%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$107 · Aug 14$97 now$97€87 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Arturia MiniFuse 4 USB-C Audio Interface
MiniFuse 4 Black · Arturia
61 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Weight0.57 kg
The MiniFuse 4 Black is a solid, budget-friendly option for singer-songwriters, podcasters, and smaller home studios. It's incredibly portable and easy to use, offering a clean signal path and a handy USB hub. It’s a great starting point for those who need a simple, reliable interface without a lot of frills.
Pros
- Compact build quality feels surprisingly robust for its size.
- Clean preamps deliver transparent sound for a wide range of sources.
- Loopback functionality is genuinely useful for streaming and podcasting.
Cons
- Limited input count might restrict more complex recording setups.
- Plastic enclosure feels less premium than some competing interfaces.
78AudioFu
Index↓ 8.5%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$223 · Aug 14$204 now$204€182 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Focusrite Scarlett 16i16 4th Gen USB Audio Interface
Scarlett 16i16 4th Gen · Focusrite
63 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight1.25 kg
This Scarlett 16i16 4th Gen is a seriously capable interface for mid-sized studios or bands needing lots of ins and outs. The preamps are decent, and the routing options are fantastic for multi-mic'd drums or recording a full band. It's a solid workhorse that won’t break the bank, especially for those needing a reliable, flexible solution.
Pros
- Solid build quality with a robust metal chassis, feels very professional.
- The 'Air' mode genuinely adds a pleasing, subtle high-end sparkle.
- 18x18 routing flexibility handles complex recording setups easily.
Cons
- USB 2.0 connection limits bandwidth; USB-C is a nice touch, but speed is a constraint.
- Limited gain on preamps might struggle with very low-output dynamic mics.
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- Size4.3"
- Weight1.9 kg
This interface packs a lot of control into a small box with a big screen. It handles up to 16 tracks via its SD card slot, which is great for quick demos. Musicians who want to mix and record on one piece of gear will find the four inputs and touch controls very helpful. It works well as a portable studio if you keep it charged.
Pros
- Four dedicated microphone and line input channels for versatile recording
- Large touch screen display with rotary controllers for easy mixing
- Built-in DSP processing handles audio tasks internally without extra gear
Cons
- USB 2.0 bandwidth limits data transfer speed compared to newer standards
- No dedicated headphone amplifier section listed for large monitor loads
73AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$525 now$525€469 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Focusrite Scarlett 18i16 4th Gen USB Audio Interface
Scarlett 18i16 4th Gen · Focusrite
52 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight1.494 kg
The 18i16 4th Gen is a serious step up for mid-level studios and bands needing a good number of inputs. It's got the clean preamps, the routing options, and a solid build that’ll last. If you're recording drums, multiple vocalists, or a full band, this is a really smart choice.
Pros
- Excellent dynamic range (122dB) minimizes noise floor for clean recordings.
- The 'Air' mode genuinely adds a pleasant, subtle high-end sparkle.
- Robust build quality; the metal chassis feels significantly more premium than previous generations.
Cons
- USB 2.0 connection limits bandwidth; potential for latency with demanding projects.
- The included software bundle, while decent, is fairly standard fare.
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Focusrite Clarett+ 4Pre USB-C Audio Interface
Clarett+ 4Pre · Focusrite
39 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight1.61 kg
The Clarett+ 4Pre is a solid workhorse interface for project studios and serious hobbyists. Those Focusrite preamps, especially with the Air mode engaged, offer a really nice, polished sound—great for vocals and instruments needing a bit of vintage vibe. It’s a well-rounded package with a good feature set for the price.
Pros
- Excellent Clarett preamps deliver clean, punchy, and detailed recordings.
- The 'Air' mode convincingly emulates the classic ISA110 preamp's character.
- Flexible I/O options (ADAT, S/PDIF) expand recording possibilities significantly.
Cons
- USB 2.0 interface limits bandwidth compared to newer Thunderbolt options.
- Limited expandability beyond the existing I/O – no room for future upgrades.
70AudioFu
Index↓ 6.5%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$621 · Aug 14$581 now$581€519 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight0.6 kg
The EVO 8 is a seriously solid entry-level interface. Its clean preamps and intuitive software mixer make it ideal for singer-songwriters, podcasters, or anyone needing a simple, portable recording solution. It's a great value for the features you get.
Pros
- Excellent preamp clarity; handles dynamic sources beautifully
- EVO software mixer offers flexible routing for complex setups
- Compact size and USB-C power simplify mobile recording workflows
Cons
- Limited physical I/O compared to rackmount alternatives
- DSP processing could be more powerful for heavier plugin use
69AudioFu
Index↓ 11.8%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$218 · Aug 14$192 now$192€172 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 172 USB audio interfaces
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Yamaha URX22C USB-C Audio InterfaceURX22 BK · Yamaha · 3 finishes69Stable$413€369$413€369Check ↗
- 12
Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre USB-C Audio InterfaceClarett+ 8Pre · Focusrite69↑ 10.3%$961€859$961€859Check ↗
- 13
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB Audio Interface Studio BundleScarlett Solo Studio 4th Gen. · Focusrite67↑ 6.0%$279€249$279€249Check ↗
- 14
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB Audio Interface Studio BundleScarlett 2i2 Studio 4th Gen. · Focusrite67↑ 10.8%$346€309$346€309Check ↗
- 15
TASCAM Mixcast 4 Digital Audio WorkstationMixcast 4 · Tascam67↓ 8.1%$468€418$468€418Check ↗
- 16
Arturia AudioFuse Studio USB-C Audio InterfaceAudioFuse Studio · Arturia67↓ 10.1%$894€799$894€799Check ↗
- 17
Audient EVO 16 USB Audio InterfaceEVO 16 · Audient66↓ 10.0%$502€449$502€449Check ↗
- 18
Yamaha AG06 MKII 6 Channel Analog MixerAG06 MK2 BK · Yamaha · 2 finishes65Stable$223€199$223€199Check ↗
- 19
Yamaha AG03 MKII 3 Channel Analog MixerAG03 MK2 BK · Yamaha · 2 finishes64↑ 12.3%$183€164$183€164Check ↗
- 20
Audient iD4 MKII USB-C Audio InterfaceiD4 MKII · Audient63↓ 3.3%$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 21
Focusrite Clarett+ 2Pre USB-C Audio InterfaceClarett+ 2Pre · Focusrite63↑ 15.0%$514€459$514€459Check ↗
- 22
Apogee Duet 3 USB-C Audio InterfaceDuet 3 · Apogee63↓ 10.8%$648€579$648€579Check ↗
- 23
Focusrite Vocaster One USB Audio InterfaceVocaster One · Focusrite62Stable$50€45$50€45Check ↗
- 24
MOTU M6 6-Channel USB-C Audio InterfaceM6 · MOTU62↓ 7.7%$525€469$525€469Check ↗
- 25
Audient iD44 MkII USB Audio InterfaceiD44 MKII · Audient62↓ 6.1%$566€506$566€506Check ↗
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Audient iD48 USB Audio InterfaceiD48 · Audient62↓ 6.8%$926€828$926€828Check ↗
- 27
Audient iD24 USB-C Audio InterfaceiD24 · Audient61↓ 1.2%$357€319$357€319Check ↗
- 28
RME Hammerfall DSP Digiface Digital I/O For HDSP CardsDigiface USB · RME · 3 finishes61↓ 5.3%$464€415$464€415Check ↗
- 29
Yamaha AG08 8 Channel Analog MixerAG08 BL · Yamaha · 2 finishes61↓ 3.3%$497€444$497€444Check ↗
- 30
IK Multimedia iRig BlueTurn Compact Bluetooth Page TurneriRig USB · IK Multimedia · 2 finishes60Stable$69€62$69€62Check ↗
- 31
TASCAM Series 102i USB Audio InterfaceSeries 102i · Tascam60↓ 23.6%$196€175$196€175Check ↗
- 32
Fender Link I/O USB Audio InterfaceLink I/O Interface · Fender59↓ 13.9%$76€68$76€68Check ↗
- 33
Audient iD14 MKII USB-C Audio InterfaceiD14 MKII · Audient59↓ 1.4%$239€214$239€214Check ↗
- 34
Fender Studio Quantum HD2 USB-C Audio InterfaceQuantum HD2 · Fender Studio59↓ 6.4%$491€439$491€439Check ↗
- 35
Focusrite Vocaster Two USB Audio InterfaceVocaster Two · Focusrite58Stable$77€69$77€69Check ↗
- 36
Audient EVO 4 USB Audio InterfaceEVO 4 · Audient58↓ 7.0%$119€106$119€106Check ↗
- 37
Universal Audio Volt 2 USB Recording StudioUniversal Audio · 3 finishes58↓ 11.3%$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 38
Antelope Audio Zen Quadro Synergy Core USB-C Audio InterfaceZen Quadro Synergy Core · Antelope58↓ 4.2%$670€599$670€599Check ↗
- 39
RME MADIface USB 128-Channel MADI USB InterfaceMadiface USB · RME · 2 finishes58↓ 14.9%$802€717$802€717Check ↗
- 40
IK Multimedia iRig Stream Ultra-Compact USB Audio InterfaceiRig Stream · IK Multimedia57↑ 4.2%$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 41
Universal Audio Volt 1 USB Recording StudioUniversal Audio · 2 finishes57↓ 17.0%$125€112$125€112Check ↗
- 42
Mackie MainStream USB-C Streaming Audio InterfaceMainStream · Mackie57↓ 8.0%$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 43
Black Lion Audio Revolution 6x6 USB-C Audio InterfaceRevolution 6x6 · Black Lion Audio57↓ 15.3%$558€499$558€499Check ↗
- 44
Universal Audio Volt 4 Gen 2 USB-C Audio Interface 2026Volt 4P Max · Universal Audio · 3 finishes57Stable$558€499$558€499Check ↗
- 45
Lewitt Connect 6 USB-C Audio InterfaceConnect 6 · Lewitt56↑ 2.5%$274€245$274€245Check ↗
- 46
ART TUBEMIX 5-Channel Mixer with USB Interface and Assignable 12AX7…TubeMix · ART56Stable$514€459$514€459Check ↗
- 47
M-Audio M-Track Duo USB Audio InterfaceM-Track DUO · M-Audio55Stable$60€54$60€54Check ↗
- 48
M-Audio M-Track Duo USB Audio InterfaceM-Track Duo HD · M-Audio55↓ 16.7%$73€65$73€65Check ↗
- 49
Behringer Xenyx CONTROL2USB Studio Monitor ControllerStudio L · Behringer55↓ 7.2%$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 50
Black Lion Audio Revolution 2x2 USB Type-C Audio InterfaceRevolution 2x2 · Black Lion Audio55Stable$323€289$323€289Check ↗
- 51
Reloop Flux 3-channel 6x6 DVS InterfaceFlux · Reloop55↓ 5.1%$413€369$413€369Check ↗
- 52
Universal Audio Apollo Solo Heritage Edition Thunderbolt 3 Audio…Apollo Solo USB Heritage Ed. · Universal Audio55↑ 31.7%$670€599$670€599Check ↗
- 53
MOTU M4 USB-C Audio InterfaceM4 · MOTU54↓ 3.0%$323€289$323€289Check ↗
- 54
M-Audio M-Track Solo USB Audio InterfaceM-Track Solo · M-Audio53Stable$51€46$51€46Check ↗
- 55
RODE AI-1 USB Audio InterfaceAI-1 · Rode52↓ 10.1%$130€116$130€116Check ↗
- 56
Behringer UV1Behringer52Stable$140€125$140€125Check ↗
- 57
Blackstar Polar 2 USB Audio InterfacePolar 2 WT · Blackstar52↓ 11.8%$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 58
Korg microAUDIO 22 USB-C Audio InterfacemicroAUDIO 22 · Korg52Stable$195€174$195€174Check ↗
- 59
Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 3rd Gen USB Audio InterfaceScarlett 8i6 3rd Gen · Focusrite52Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 60
Universal Audio Volt 876 USB Recording StudioUniversal Audio52Stable$978€874$978€874Check ↗
- 61
RODE Wireless Micro USB C Wireless Microphone SystemAI-Micro · Rode51Stable$77€69$77€69Check ↗
- 62
Apogee Jam X USB Audio InterfaceJam X · Apogee51↑ 5.3%$223€199$223€199Check ↗
- 63
IK Multimedia iRig Pre 2 XLR Portable InterfaceiRig Pre HD · IK Multimedia50Stable$86€77$86€77Check ↗
- 64
Roland Rubix 22 2x2 USB Audio InterfaceRubix22 · Roland50Stable$177€158$177€158Check ↗
- 65
Roland Rubix24 2x4 USB Audio InterfaceRubix24 · Roland50↑ 11.2%$223€199$223€199Check ↗
- 66
MOTU M2 USB-C Audio InterfaceM2 · MOTU50↑ 3.1%$264€236$264€236Check ↗
- 67
Roland GO:MIXER STUDIO USB-C Audio InterfaceGO:MIXER Studio · Roland50Stable$312€279$312€279Check ↗
- 68
Universal Audio Volt 476P USB Recording StudioUniversal Audio · 2 finishes50↓ 1.7%$458€409$458€409Check ↗
- 69
Behringer UMC1820 U-Phoria USB 2.0 Audio InterfaceUMC1820 · Behringer49↓ 5.9%$178€159$178€159Check ↗
- 70
Universal Audio Volt 176 USB Recording StudioUniversal Audio49↓ 11.2%$178€159$178€159Check ↗
- 71
Roland Bridge Cast XRoland49↓ 15.8%$423€378$423€378Check ↗
- 72
MOTU UltraLite-mk5 USB-C Audio InterfaceUltraLite mk5 · MOTU49↓ 3.1%$828€740$828€740Check ↗
- 73
Behringer U-Phoria UMC204HD USB Audio InterfaceU-Phoria UMC204HD · Behringer48↓ 12.7%$77€69$77€69Check ↗
- 74
Blackstar Polar Go USB-C Audio InterfacePolar Go · Blackstar48Stable$95€85$95€85Check ↗
- 75
SSL 2 MKIISSL · 2 finishes48↓ 2.3%$239€214$239€214Check ↗
- 76
IK Multimedia AXE I/O+AmpliTube5+Tonex MAXIK Multimedia48↓ 10.1%$397€355$397€355Check ↗
- 77
Maono Maonocaster AME2Maono47↓ 19.8%$100€89$100€89Check ↗
- 78
Lewitt Connect 2Lewitt47↓ 28.5%$143€128$143€128Check ↗
- 79
Behringer Xenyx 302USBBehringer46↓ 4.4%$48€43$48€43Check ↗
- 80
Zoom AMS-22 USB-C Audio Interface for Music and StreamingAMS-22 · Zoom46Stable$88€79$88€79Check ↗
- 81
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd GenFocusrite46Stable$100€89$100€89Check ↗
- 82
Behringer U-PHORIA UMC404HD 4x4 USB Audio InterfaceUMC404HD · Behringer46↓ 4.0%$106€95$106€95Check ↗
- 83
Zoom AMS-24 USB-C Audio Interface for Music and StreamingAMS-24 · Zoom46↓ 2.5%$130€116$130€116Check ↗
- 84
Roland Rubix 44 4x4 USB Audio InterfaceRubix44 · Roland46↑ 13.7%$279€249$279€249Check ↗
- 85
Behringer U-Phoria UMC22 USB Audio InterfaceU-Phoria UMC22 · Behringer45↓ 2.7%$40€36$40€36Check ↗
- 86
Zoom AMS-44 USB-C Audio Interface for Music and StreamingAMS-44 · Zoom45↓ 6.1%$173€155$173€155Check ↗
- 87
Korg microAUDIO 722 USB-C Audio InterfacemicroAUDIO 722 · Korg45Stable$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 88
Universal Audio Volt 276 USB Recording StudioUniversal Audio45↓ 1.2%$283€253$283€253Check ↗
- 89
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen. Mic BundFocusrite45Stable$290€259$290€259Check ↗
- 90
ESI UGM192ESI44↓ 55.1%$55€49$55€49Check ↗
- 91
ESI Neva OTGESI44↓ 40.0%$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 92
ESI Amber i1ESI44↓ 17.1%$120€107$120€107Check ↗
- 93
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th GenFocusrite44↑ 3.1%$149€133$149€133Check ↗
- 94
ESI Gigaport eXESI44Stable$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 95
TASCAM US-2x2HR High Resolution USB Audio InterfaceUS-2x2HR · Tascam44↑ 7.6%$173€155$173€155Check ↗
- 96
ESI Amber i2ESI44↓ 18.0%$173€155$173€155Check ↗
- 97
IK Multimedia iRig Stream ProIK Multimedia44↓ 0.6%$178€159$178€159Check ↗
- 98
TASCAM US-4X4HR High Resolution USB Audio InterfaceUS-4x4HR · Tascam44Stable$237€212$237€212Check ↗
- 99
Shure Motiv MVX2U Gen 2Shure · 2 finishes43↓ 12.6%$156€139$156€139Check ↗
- 100
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th GenerationFocusrite43↑ 5.6%$211€189$211€189Check ↗
- 101
TC-Helicon Go XLR-WHTC-Helicon43↓ 15.5%$311€278$311€278Check ↗
- 102
Yamaha UR12 MK3 WhiteYamaha · 2 finishes42Stable$106€95$106€95Check ↗
- 103
Yamaha UR22 MK3 WhiteYamaha · 2 finishes42Stable$147€131$147€131Check ↗
- 104
SSL 1SSL42Stable$178€159$178€159Check ↗
- 105
Behringer U-Control UCA202Behringer41↓ 10.5%$19€17$19€17Check ↗
- 106
Fender Studio Quantum LT 2Fender Studio41Stable$131€117$131€117Check ↗
- 107
Fender Studio Quantum LT 4Fender Studio41Stable$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 108
Zoom UAC-232 USB-C Audio InterfaceUAC-232 · Zoom41↑ 6.6%$198€177$198€177Check ↗
- 109
Antelope Zenith 2Antelope41Stable$323€289$323€289Check ↗
- 110
Behringer U-Phoria UM2 2x2 USB Audio InterfaceU-Phoria UM2 · Behringer39Stable$32€29$32€29Check ↗
- 111
Swissonic Audio 2Swissonic39Stable$66€59$66€59Check ↗
- 112
TC-Helicon GO XLR MiniTC-Helicon39↓ 16.1%$140€125$140€125Check ↗
- 113
XVive More You 2xXVive39↓ 18.7%$199€178$199€178Check ↗
- 114
Arturia MiniFuse 2 Recording PackMiniFuse Recording Pack Black · Arturia · 2 finishes39↓ 3.5%$312€279$312€279Check ↗
- 115
Tascam US-16x08 USB Audio InterfaceUS-16x08 · Tascam39↑ 4.7%$397€355$397€355Check ↗
- 116
TASCAM Mixcast 4 Digital Audio WorkstationMixcast 4 Bag Bundle · Tascam39↓ 5.8%$543€485$543€485Check ↗
- 117
the t.bone USB 1Gthe t.bone · 2 finishes38Stable$17€15$17€15Check ↗
- 118
Fun Generation UA-202Fun Generation38Stable$21€19$21€19Check ↗
- 119
ESI Neva UnoESI38↓ 3.4%$64€57$64€57Check ↗
- 120
Behringer U-PHORIA UMC202HD USB 2.0 Audio InterfaceU-Phoria UMC202HD · Behringer38↑ 1.5%$67€60$67€60Check ↗
- 121
Focusrite Vocaster One StudioFocusrite38Stable$77€69$77€69Check ↗
- 122
Tight AV Dante 2x2 USBC 2.0 AdapterTight AV38↓ 20.1%$178€159$178€159Check ↗
- 123
XVive More You HubXVive38↓ 14.9%$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 124
SSL 12SSL38↓ 8.1%$408€365$408€365Check ↗
- 125
Shure SM4 Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser MicrophoneSM4 Bundle · Shure38↓ 9.9%$408€365$408€365Check ↗
- 126
Bitwig Connect 4/12Bitwig38Stable$547€489$547€489Check ↗
- 127
Harrison Audio Flex-10Harrison Audio38Stable$704€629$704€629Check ↗
- 128
RME Babyface Pro FSRME38↓ 2.7%$811€725$811€725Check ↗
- 129
Behringer UFO202Behringer37Stable$17€15$17€15Check ↗
- 130
Maono Maonocaster G1 NEOMaono37↓ 12.5%$47€42$47€42Check ↗
- 131
ESI U24 XLESI37↓ 1.3%$86€77$86€77Check ↗
- 132
Roland Bridge Cast OneRoland37↓ 4.0%$190€170$190€170Check ↗
- 133
ESI Amber i4ESI37↓ 3.2%$267€239$267€239Check ↗
- 134
Heritage Audio i73 Pro EdgeHeritage Audio37↓ 15.3%$947€846$947€846Check ↗
- 135
ESI Maya 22 USBESI36Stable$44€39$44€39Check ↗
- 136
ESI Neva DuoESI36Stable$86€77$86€77Check ↗
- 137
ESI Maya 44 USB+ESI36↓ 1.0%$110€98$110€98Check ↗
- 138
IK Multimedia iRig Pro I/OIK Multimedia36Stable$140€125$140€125Check ↗
- 139
IK Multimedia iRig Pro Duo I/OIK Multimedia36Stable$185€165$185€165Check ↗
- 140
IK Multimedia iRig Keys I/O 49iRig Keys I/O 49 Bundle · IK Multimedia36Stable$211€189$211€189Check ↗
- 141
Roland Go:Mixer Pro-XRoland35Stable$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 142
Electro Harmonix Effects Interface Hardw.PlugInElectro Harmonix35↓ 9.4%$323€289$323€289Check ↗
- 143
ART USB Phono Plus PSART34↓ 2.5%$130€116$130€116Check ↗
- 144
Reloop Flux GoReloop34Stable$245€219$245€219Check ↗
- 145
freqport FreqInOut FO1freqport34↓ 5.1%$625€559$625€559Check ↗
- 146
the t.bone MicPlug USBthe t.bone33Stable$37€33$37€33Check ↗
- 147
Dante AVIO USB IO Adapter 2x2Dante33↓ 2.4%$228€204$228€204Check ↗
- 148
Reloop Flux 3-channel 6x6 DVS InterfaceFlux Bag Bundle · Reloop33↓ 5.0%$430€384$430€384Check ↗
- 149
Reloop Flux 3-channel 6x6 DVS InterfaceFlux Case Bundle · Reloop33↓ 4.9%$435€389$435€389Check ↗
- 150
ART TUBEMIX 5-Channel Mixer with USB Interface and Assignable 12AX7…TubeMix Case Bundle · ART33Stable$557€498$557€498Check ↗
- 151
Dante AVIO USB-C IO Adapter 2x2Dante32Stable$234€209$234€209Check ↗
- 152
Audiowerkzeug CoDi MK3Audiowerkzeug32Stable$368€329$368€329Check ↗
- 153
Audiowerkzeug DiGI MK3Audiowerkzeug32Stable$368€329$368€329Check ↗
- 154
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th GenerationFocusrite31↑ 20.3%$319€285$319€285Check ↗
- 155
Miditech Guitarface IIMiditech30Stable$25€22$25€22Check ↗
- 156
Joyo Momix Pro Portable InterfaceJoyo30Stable$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 157
Xsonic Xtone Interface/Foot ControlXsonic30Stable$156€139$156€139Check ↗
- 158
Audiosigma MikeHero DSPAudiosigma30Stable$357€319$357€319Check ↗
- 159
EVO 16 Rack BundleEVO30↓ 9.2%$517€462$517€462Check ↗
- 160
Yellowtec PUC2 LiteYellowtec30Stable$536€479$536€479Check ↗
- 161
Modular Audio Tools MAT 16X8Modular Audio Tools30Stable$536€479$536€479Check ↗
- 162
Swissonic Audio 2 Podcast BundleSwissonic28Stable$223€199$223€199Check ↗
- 163
Behringer U-Control UCA222 2-Channel 16 Bit / 48kHz USB InterfaceU-Control UCA222 · Behringer27↑ 42.1%$22€20$22€20Check ↗
- 164
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd NT1 A BundleFocusrite27Stable$279€249$279€249Check ↗
- 165
SSL 12 Decksaver BundleSSL27↓ 5.6%$453€405$453€405Check ↗
- 166
Behringer Xenyx 302USB Headset BundleBehringer26Stable$95€85$95€85Check ↗
- 167
Reloop Flux Go Bag BundleReloop25Stable$263€235$263€235Check ↗
- 168
Focusrite Vocaster Two Headphone BundleFocusrite24↓ 5.9%$90€80$90€80Check ↗
- 169
IK Multimedia iRig Pro I/O PSU BundleIK Multimedia22Stable$188€168$188€168Check ↗
- 170
M-Audio M-Track Duo HD Producer PackM-Audio20Stable$173€155$173€155Check ↗
- 171
Fender Studio Quantum Creator BundleFender Studio20Stable$272€243$272€243Check ↗
- 172
Fender Studio Quantum Complete BundleFender Studio20Stable$351€314$351€314Check ↗
USB Audio Interfaces by the numbers
Measured across all 198 models we track, not a sample.
Median $211 — half of all USB audio interfaces here cost less.
median of 102 models · 0.32 kg–3 kg
median of 18 models · 4"–19"
How to choose the best USB audio interfaces
Preamps
These are your front-end. Clean preamps give you headroom to work with and avoid that brittle, harsh high-end when pushing gain. We're looking for a balanced sound - not overly colored, but with enough character to make things interesting. Expect some noise floor at this price point, though.
Converter Quality
The A/D and D/A converters are the heart of the interface. Better converters translate to a wider dynamic range and more accurate representation of your instruments. You won't get pristine transparency under $1000, but you can find interfaces that don't muddy your low-end or smear transients.
Input/Output Options
Consider what you need. A couple of mic preamps for a vocal and acoustic guitar? Multiple inputs for tracking drums? Balanced inserts for outboard gear? Think about your typical recording setup and make sure the interface has what you need without needing a ton of adapters.
Latency
This is critical for monitoring while you record. High latency makes playing feel disconnected and can throw off your timing. USB 2.0 interfaces can sometimes be a latency bottleneck, so USB 3.0 is a plus. Driver stability is also key - no one wants their recording interrupted by dropouts.
Build Quality & Software
Let's be real, plastic enclosures and flaky software are a drag. We're looking for something that feels solid enough to survive a gig and includes reliable drivers that don't constantly require troubleshooting. A well-designed software suite (like virtual instruments or effects) is a nice bonus.
Buying guide
So, you're looking for a USB audio interface that won't bankrupt you but still lets you record something that doesn't sound like it was tracked through a tin can? It's a common quest, especially for gigging musicians and bedroom producers. Forget the marketing hype, let's talk about what really matters.
At this budget, you're making trade-offs. Don't expect the ultra-low noise floor of a $2000 interface; you'll likely encounter some hiss, especially when cranking the preamp gain. Prioritize preamps over a huge I/O count if you primarily record vocals or acoustic instruments.
And seriously, read user reviews about driver stability - a frustrating interface is worse than a slightly less-featured one.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 198 USB audio interfaces from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What's the difference between USB 2.0 and USB 3.0?
USB 3.0 offers faster data transfer speeds, which means lower latency and potentially more simultaneous inputs. It's a worthwhile upgrade, especially if you plan on tracking a lot of channels.
Can I use this interface for live sound?
While some interfaces can work in a live setting, they're primarily designed for recording. Limited headroom and a lack of robust routing options can be a problem. A dedicated live sound mixer is a better choice for serious gigs.
What does 'phantom power' mean?
Phantom power (48V) is what powers condenser microphones. If you're using a condenser mic, make sure your interface provides it.
What's the deal with ASIO drivers?
ASIO drivers are crucial for low-latency performance on Windows. Make sure the interface you choose has stable, well-regarded ASIO drivers to avoid frustrating delays.
I'm a singer-songwriter - what should I look for?
Focus on preamp quality and a good headphone amp. A clean, transparent preamp that doesn't color your vocals is essential, and a headphone amp with enough power to drive your headphones comfortably is a must for tracking.





