AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best USB Audio Interfaces Under $200 2026

Q: What's the difference between USB 2.0 and USB-C?

USB-C is generally faster and more stable, especially for audio. It's less prone to dropouts, but most interfaces in this price range will still use USB 2.0 - it's not a dealbreaker, just something to be aware of.

Q: Can I record a drum kit with an interface this cheap?

Technically, yes. Realistically, you'll be limited to two or four inputs. You'll need to be selective about which mics you use and how you route your signals. Don't expect a pristine, balanced drum sound.

Q: What does 'phantom power' mean?

Phantom power (48V) is what you need to power condenser microphones. Most interfaces under $200 will offer it, but double-check before buying.

Q: Will this interface work with my laptop?

Most likely, yes. But always check the system requirements on the manufacturer's website to ensure compatibility with your operating system. Driver updates are your friend.

Q: What's the deal with ASIO drivers?

ASIO drivers are a low-latency audio driver protocol primarily used on Windows. They're crucial for minimizing latency when recording. Make sure the interface supports ASIO and download the latest drivers from the manufacturer's website.

The top pick is Arturia MiniFuse 2 USB-C Audio Interface ($144). Focusrite Vocaster One USB Audio Interface gives you the most for the money at $50. TASCAM Series 102i USB Audio Interface leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 84 models across 31 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 14, 2026

84models in this chart

31brands

$130median price

42price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All USB Audio Interfaces Showing: Under $200 · clear

Price

Skill level

Use

Brand

Top 10

Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.

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
- Demand100
- Lineup86
- Price72
- Specs50
- Maker82
↓ 7.2%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$156 · Aug 14$144 now

$144€129 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
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
- Demand92
- Lineup68
- Price78
- Specs50
- Maker82
↓ 9.4%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$107 · Aug 14$97 now

$97€87 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Audient EVO 8 USB Audio Interface
EVO 8 · Audient
35 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- 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
- Demand81
- Lineup43
- Price85
- Specs50
- Maker73
↓ 11.8%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$218 · Aug 14$192 now

$192€172 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Yamaha AG03 MKII 3 Channel Analog Mixer
AG03 MK2 BK · Yamaha
34 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Weight0.8 kg
The AG03 MK2 BK is a clever little unit, a great entry point for singer-songwriters or podcasters needing a compact interface and mixer. Its built-in effects are a real bonus, and the fader makes it feel more like a proper console than a typical audio interface. It’s a really thoughtful design for solo creators or small ensembles.
Pros
- Solid build quality; feels robust despite its compact size.
- Excellent Yamaha DSP effects – surprisingly usable and musical.
- The 60mm fader provides a tactile, mixing console feel.
Cons
- Limited input count restricts complex recording scenarios.
- Headphone output lacks a bit of headroom at higher volumes.
64AudioFu
Index
- Demand80
- Lineup68
- Price13
- Specs50
- Maker92
↑ 12.3%since Aug 14
$163 · Aug 14$183 now

$183€164 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Audient iD4 MKII USB-C Audio Interface
iD4 MKII · Audient
30 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight0.74 kg
The iD4 MKII is a seriously impressive little box for the money. It's perfect for singer-songwriters, podcasters, or anyone needing a high-quality interface for tracking vocals or instruments without a ton of channels. The preamps are surprisingly good, and the build feels solid.
Pros
- Audient preamps deliver a remarkably clean, detailed, and musical sound.
- Discrete JFET input excels for direct instrument recording with a warm, responsive tone.
- ScrollControl offers genuinely useful DAW integration, streamlining workflow.
Cons
- Limited I/O makes it unsuitable for complex multi-mic recording setups.
- The single combo XLR/TRS input can be restrictive for some users.
63AudioFu
Index
- Demand78
- Lineup43
- Price60
- Specs50
- Maker73
↓ 3.2%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$172 · Aug 14$167 now

$167€149 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Focusrite Vocaster One USB Audio Interface
Vocaster One · Focusrite
54 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The Vocaster One is a clever little interface, clearly aimed at podcasters and beginner streamers. The auto-gain and Enhance features are a real time-saver, and the build feels solid enough for the price point. It's a great entry point for someone wanting a simple, functional recording solution.
Pros
- Excellent preamps deliver clean gain, surprisingly quiet for the price.
- Auto Gain is genuinely useful for quick podcast setups.
- Camera output simplifies streaming workflows; a thoughtful addition.
Cons
- Limited I/O compared to more versatile interfaces.
- USB-C power dependency can be inconvenient for some setups.
62AudioFu
Index
- Demand90
- Lineup43
- Price50
- Specs0
- Maker100
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$50 now

$50€45 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
IK Multimedia iRig BlueTurn Compact Bluetooth Page Turner
iRig USB · IK Multimedia
30 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
The iRig USB is a remarkably compact and convenient audio interface, perfect for singer-songwriters, guitarists, or bassists who need a simple way to record directly into their phone, tablet, or computer. It’s a budget-friendly solution for capturing ideas on the go, though serious studio work will demand more features and better preamps.
Pros
- Ultra-portable size makes it ideal for mobile recording setups.
- USB-C connectivity offers a modern, reliable connection.
- IK Multimedia’s bundled apps provide immediate creative options.
Cons
- Limited input options restrict recording complex multi-instrument setups.
- Preamp quality is adequate, but won't rival higher-end interfaces.
60AudioFu
Index
- Demand78
- Lineup68
- Price50
- Specs0
- Maker79
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$69 now

$69€62 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
TASCAM Series 102i USB Audio Interface
Series 102i · Tascam
11 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight0.9 kg
The Tascam 102i is a fantastic entry point for home recording and podcasting. It’s surprisingly feature-rich, especially with the ADAT and built-in DSP, making it a great choice for musicians and content creators who need a compact, versatile, and affordable solution without sacrificing too much quality.
Pros
- Excellent value for money, packed with features.
- The integrated DSP mixer is surprisingly powerful and intuitive.
- ADAT input expands I/O significantly for future growth.
Cons
- Preamp noise floor is noticeable at higher gain settings.
- Limited routing options compared to more expensive interfaces.
60AudioFu
Index
- Demand56
- Lineup43
- Price100
- Specs50
- Maker62
↓ 23.6%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$256 · Aug 14$196 now

$196€175 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Fender Link I/O USB Audio Interface
Link I/O Interface · Fender
43 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The Link I/O is a surprisingly capable little interface, especially for guitarists and bassists just getting into home recording. Its high-impedance input is a real boon for active instruments, and the Fender Studio app makes it easy to get started. It's a budget-friendly option for basic tracking and monitoring—a solid choice for beginners or those needing a portable solution.
Pros
- Excellent value for basic recording and monitoring.
- USB-C power simplifies setup and eliminates adapter clutter.
- High-impedance input handles active pickups with minimal signal loss.
Cons
- Limited input/output count restricts more complex recording setups.
- Plastic housing feels less robust than metal alternatives.
59AudioFu
Index
- Demand85
- Lineup43
- Price92
- Specs0
- Maker22
↓ 13.9%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$88 · Aug 14$76 now

$76€68 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Focusrite Vocaster Two USB Audio Interface
Vocaster Two · Focusrite
33 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The Vocaster Two is a surprisingly capable little interface geared toward podcasters and streamers who need a straightforward, easy-to-use solution. The auto-gain and 'Enhance' functions are genuinely helpful for quick setups, and the build quality feels solid for the price point. It's not a studio powerhouse, but it's a fantastic entry point for content creators.
Pros
- Excellent auto-gain feature simplifies setup, great for beginners.
- Compact size and USB-C connectivity offer portability and ease of use.
- Focusrite preamps deliver clean, low-noise performance for vocals and instruments.
Cons
- Limited routing options restrict advanced recording scenarios.
- USB bus power only may limit headroom with demanding microphones.
58AudioFu
Index
- Demand80
- Lineup43
- Price50
- Specs0
- Maker100
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$77 now

$77€69 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗

All 84 USB audio interfaces

Sort

Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.

11
Audient EVO 4 USB Audio InterfaceEVO 4 · Audient

Index 58↓ 7.0%
58
↓ 7.0%$119€106
$119€106Check ↗
12
Universal Audio Volt 2 USB Recording StudioUniversal Audio · 3 finishes

Index 58↓ 11.3%
58
↓ 11.3%$167€149
$167€149Check ↗
13
IK Multimedia iRig Stream Ultra-Compact USB Audio InterfaceiRig Stream · IK Multimedia

Index 57↑ 4.2%
57
↑ 4.2%$111€99
$111€99Check ↗
14
Universal Audio Volt 1 USB Recording StudioUniversal Audio · 2 finishes

Index 57↓ 17.0%
57
↓ 17.0%$125€112
$125€112Check ↗
15
M-Audio M-Track Duo USB Audio InterfaceM-Track DUO · M-Audio

Index 55Stable
55
Stable$60€54
$60€54Check ↗
16
M-Audio M-Track Duo USB Audio InterfaceM-Track Duo HD · M-Audio

Index 55↓ 16.7%
55
↓ 16.7%$73€65
$73€65Check ↗
17
Behringer Xenyx CONTROL2USB Studio Monitor ControllerStudio L · Behringer

Index 55↓ 7.2%
55
↓ 7.2%$144€129
$144€129Check ↗
18
M-Audio M-Track Solo USB Audio InterfaceM-Track Solo · M-Audio

Index 53Stable
53
Stable$51€46
$51€46Check ↗
19
RODE AI-1 USB Audio InterfaceAI-1 · Rode

Index 52↓ 10.1%
52
↓ 10.1%$130€116
$130€116Check ↗
20
Behringer UV1Behringer

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$140€125
$140€125Check ↗
21
Blackstar Polar 2 USB Audio InterfacePolar 2 WT · Blackstar

Index 52↓ 11.8%
52
↓ 11.8%$167€149
$167€149Check ↗
22
Korg microAUDIO 22 USB-C Audio InterfacemicroAUDIO 22 · Korg

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$195€174
$195€174Check ↗
23
RODE Wireless Micro USB C Wireless Microphone SystemAI-Micro · Rode

Index 51Stable
51
Stable$77€69
$77€69Check ↗
24
IK Multimedia iRig Pre 2 XLR Portable InterfaceiRig Pre HD · IK Multimedia

Index 50Stable
50
Stable$86€77
$86€77Check ↗
25
Roland Rubix 22 2x2 USB Audio InterfaceRubix22 · Roland

Index 50Stable
50
Stable$177€158
$177€158Check ↗
26
Behringer UMC1820 U-Phoria USB 2.0 Audio InterfaceUMC1820 · Behringer

Index 49↓ 5.9%
49
↓ 5.9%$178€159
$178€159Check ↗
27
Universal Audio Volt 176 USB Recording StudioUniversal Audio

Index 49↓ 11.2%
49
↓ 11.2%$178€159
$178€159Check ↗
28
Behringer U-Phoria UMC204HD USB Audio InterfaceU-Phoria UMC204HD · Behringer

Index 48↓ 12.7%
48
↓ 12.7%$77€69
$77€69Check ↗
29
Blackstar Polar Go USB-C Audio InterfacePolar Go · Blackstar

Index 48Stable
48
Stable$95€85
$95€85Check ↗
30
Maono Maonocaster AME2Maono

Index 47↓ 19.8%
47
↓ 19.8%$100€89
$100€89Check ↗
31
Lewitt Connect 2Lewitt

Index 47↓ 28.5%
47
↓ 28.5%$143€128
$143€128Check ↗
32
Behringer Xenyx 302USBBehringer

Index 46↓ 4.4%
46
↓ 4.4%$48€43
$48€43Check ↗
33
Zoom AMS-22 USB-C Audio Interface for Music and StreamingAMS-22 · Zoom

Index 46Stable
46
Stable$88€79
$88€79Check ↗
34
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd GenFocusrite

Index 46Stable
46
Stable$100€89
$100€89Check ↗
35
Behringer U-PHORIA UMC404HD 4x4 USB Audio InterfaceUMC404HD · Behringer

Index 46↓ 4.0%
46
↓ 4.0%$106€95
$106€95Check ↗
36
Zoom AMS-24 USB-C Audio Interface for Music and StreamingAMS-24 · Zoom

Index 46↓ 2.5%
46
↓ 2.5%$130€116
$130€116Check ↗
37
Behringer U-Phoria UMC22 USB Audio InterfaceU-Phoria UMC22 · Behringer

Index 45↓ 2.7%
45
↓ 2.7%$40€36
$40€36Check ↗
38
Zoom AMS-44 USB-C Audio Interface for Music and StreamingAMS-44 · Zoom

Index 45↓ 6.1%
45
↓ 6.1%$173€155
$173€155Check ↗
39
ESI UGM192ESI

Index 44↓ 55.1%
44
↓ 55.1%$55€49
$55€49Check ↗
40
ESI Neva OTGESI

Index 44↓ 40.0%
44
↓ 40.0%$111€99
$111€99Check ↗
41
ESI Amber i1ESI

Index 44↓ 17.1%
44
↓ 17.1%$120€107
$120€107Check ↗
42
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th GenFocusrite

Index 44↑ 3.1%
44
↑ 3.1%$149€133
$149€133Check ↗
43
ESI Gigaport eXESI

Index 44Stable
44
Stable$167€149
$167€149Check ↗
44
TASCAM US-2x2HR High Resolution USB Audio InterfaceUS-2x2HR · Tascam

Index 44↑ 7.6%
44
↑ 7.6%$173€155
$173€155Check ↗
45
ESI Amber i2ESI

Index 44↓ 18.0%
44
↓ 18.0%$173€155
$173€155Check ↗
46
IK Multimedia iRig Stream ProIK Multimedia

Index 44↓ 0.6%
44
↓ 0.6%$178€159
$178€159Check ↗
47
Shure Motiv MVX2U Gen 2Shure · 2 finishes

Index 43↓ 12.6%
43
↓ 12.6%$156€139
$156€139Check ↗
48
Yamaha UR12 MK3 WhiteYamaha · 2 finishes

Index 42Stable
42
Stable$106€95
$106€95Check ↗
49
Yamaha UR22 MK3 WhiteYamaha · 2 finishes

Index 42Stable
42
Stable$147€131
$147€131Check ↗
50
SSL 1SSL

Index 42Stable
42
Stable$178€159
$178€159Check ↗
51
Behringer U-Control UCA202Behringer

Index 41↓ 10.5%
41
↓ 10.5%$19€17
$19€17Check ↗
52
Fender Studio Quantum LT 2Fender Studio

Index 41Stable
41
Stable$131€117
$131€117Check ↗
53
Fender Studio Quantum LT 4Fender Studio

Index 41Stable
41
Stable$167€149
$167€149Check ↗
54
Zoom UAC-232 USB-C Audio InterfaceUAC-232 · Zoom

Index 41↑ 6.6%
41
↑ 6.6%$198€177
$198€177Check ↗
55
Behringer U-Phoria UM2 2x2 USB Audio InterfaceU-Phoria UM2 · Behringer

Index 39Stable
39
Stable$32€29
$32€29Check ↗
56
Swissonic Audio 2Swissonic

Index 39Stable
39
Stable$66€59
$66€59Check ↗
57
TC-Helicon GO XLR MiniTC-Helicon

Index 39↓ 16.1%
39
↓ 16.1%$140€125
$140€125Check ↗
58
XVive More You 2xXVive

Index 39↓ 18.7%
39
↓ 18.7%$199€178
$199€178Check ↗
59
the t.bone USB 1Gthe t.bone · 2 finishes

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$17€15
$17€15Check ↗
60
Fun Generation UA-202Fun Generation

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$21€19
$21€19Check ↗
61
ESI Neva UnoESI

Index 38↓ 3.4%
38
↓ 3.4%$64€57
$64€57Check ↗
62
Behringer U-PHORIA UMC202HD USB 2.0 Audio InterfaceU-Phoria UMC202HD · Behringer

Index 38↑ 1.5%
38
↑ 1.5%$67€60
$67€60Check ↗
63
Focusrite Vocaster One StudioFocusrite

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$77€69
$77€69Check ↗
64
Tight AV Dante 2x2 USBC 2.0 AdapterTight AV

Index 38↓ 20.1%
38
↓ 20.1%$178€159
$178€159Check ↗
65
Behringer UFO202Behringer

Index 37Stable
37
Stable$17€15
$17€15Check ↗
66
Maono Maonocaster G1 NEOMaono

Index 37↓ 12.5%
37
↓ 12.5%$47€42
$47€42Check ↗
67
ESI U24 XLESI

Index 37↓ 1.3%
37
↓ 1.3%$86€77
$86€77Check ↗
68
Roland Bridge Cast OneRoland

Index 37↓ 4.0%
37
↓ 4.0%$190€170
$190€170Check ↗
69
ESI Maya 22 USBESI

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$44€39
$44€39Check ↗
70
ESI Neva DuoESI

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$86€77
$86€77Check ↗
71
ESI Maya 44 USB+ESI

Index 36↓ 1.0%
36
↓ 1.0%$110€98
$110€98Check ↗
72
IK Multimedia iRig Pro I/OIK Multimedia

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$140€125
$140€125Check ↗
73
IK Multimedia iRig Pro Duo I/OIK Multimedia

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$185€165
$185€165Check ↗
74
Roland Go:Mixer Pro-XRoland

Index 35Stable
35
Stable$167€149
$167€149Check ↗
75
ART USB Phono Plus PSART

Index 34↓ 2.5%
34
↓ 2.5%$130€116
$130€116Check ↗
76
the t.bone MicPlug USBthe t.bone

Index 33Stable
33
Stable$37€33
$37€33Check ↗
77
Miditech Guitarface IIMiditech

Index 30Stable
30
Stable$25€22
$25€22Check ↗
78
Joyo Momix Pro Portable InterfaceJoyo

Index 30Stable
30
Stable$144€129
$144€129Check ↗
79
Xsonic Xtone Interface/Foot ControlXsonic

Index 30Stable
30
Stable$156€139
$156€139Check ↗
80
Behringer U-Control UCA222 2-Channel 16 Bit / 48kHz USB InterfaceU-Control UCA222 · Behringer

Index 27↑ 42.1%
27
↑ 42.1%$22€20
$22€20Check ↗
81
Behringer Xenyx 302USB Headset BundleBehringer

Index 26Stable
26
Stable$95€85
$95€85Check ↗
82
Focusrite Vocaster Two Headphone BundleFocusrite

Index 24↓ 5.9%
24
↓ 5.9%$90€80
$90€80Check ↗
83
IK Multimedia iRig Pro I/O PSU BundleIK Multimedia

Index 22Stable
22
Stable$188€168
$188€168Check ↗
84
M-Audio M-Track Duo HD Producer PackM-Audio

Index 20Stable
20
Stable$173€155
$173€155Check ↗

USB Audio Interfaces by the numbers

Measured across all 94 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $130 — half of all USB audio interfaces here cost less.

<$50$50–100$100–150$150+

Weight0.55 kg

median of 32 models · 0.18 kg–1.5 kg

How to choose the best USB audio interfaces

Preamps

In this price range, don't expect boutique-level clarity. We're looking for preamps that offer reasonable headroom before they get overly noisy, and a usable amount of gain for dynamic mics. That 'fat midrange honk' isn't happening, but we want something that doesn't sound thin and brittle.

Latency

This is critical for tracking. Nothing's more frustrating than playing a guitar riff and hearing it delayed. We're aiming for sub-10ms latency at reasonable buffer settings - anything higher and you'll be fighting the interface.

Build Quality

Let's be honest, plastic is common at this price. We're looking for something that feels reasonably sturdy, won't fall apart if you toss it in your gig bag (though, please don't!), and has decent-quality knobs and jacks.

Connectivity

How many inputs do you really need? A stereo pair for recording acoustic guitars or vocals is often enough to start. Consider phantom power for condenser mics, and USB-C versus USB-A - USB-C is generally more stable.

Drivers

Stable drivers are a lifesaver. Interfaces that constantly crash or introduce glitches are useless, no matter how cheap they are. We're looking for interfaces with a reputation for reliable performance across different operating systems.

Buying guide

Alright, so you're staring down the barrel of needing a USB interface but your wallet's screaming. Been there, gigged there, recorded demos on worse. Getting a decent recording setup doesn't have to bankrupt you, and there are some seriously good options under $200 that'll get you tracking vocals, guitars, and drums without sounding like you're recording through a tin can. Let's cut through the marketing and find you something that actually works.

At this price point, you're making trade-offs. You won't get pristine, transparent preamps, nor will you have a ton of I/O. Expect a bit more noise than you'd find on a high-end interface, and don't be surprised if the build feels a little plasticky.

Focus on finding an interface with low latency and stable drivers - those are the things that will make or break your recording experience. Don't chase extra features you won't use; a solid core set of inputs and reliable performance is worth more than a fancy MIDI sequencer you'll never touch.

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 94 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-C?

USB-C is generally faster and more stable, especially for audio. It's less prone to dropouts, but most interfaces in this price range will still use USB 2.0 - it's not a dealbreaker, just something to be aware of.

Can I record a drum kit with an interface this cheap?

Technically, yes. Realistically, you'll be limited to two or four inputs. You'll need to be selective about which mics you use and how you route your signals. Don't expect a pristine, balanced drum sound.

What does 'phantom power' mean?

Phantom power (48V) is what you need to power condenser microphones. Most interfaces under $200 will offer it, but double-check before buying.

Will this interface work with my laptop?

Most likely, yes. But always check the system requirements on the manufacturer's website to ensure compatibility with your operating system. Driver updates are your friend.

What's the deal with ASIO drivers?

ASIO drivers are a low-latency audio driver protocol primarily used on Windows. They're crucial for minimizing latency when recording. Make sure the interface supports ASIO and download the latest drivers from the manufacturer's website.