AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best USB Audio Interfaces Under $5,000 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. RME Fireface UFX II USB Interface leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 205 models across 55 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 ↗ -
RME Fireface 802 FS USB Audio Interface
Fireface 802 FS AE · RME
16 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Size19"
- Weight2.8 kg
The Fireface 802 FS AE is a powerhouse for serious recording and production. Its rock-solid drivers, pristine preamps, and TotalMix FX routing are a game-changer for engineers and musicians needing ultimate control and flexibility. This is perfect for professional studios or advanced home setups where pristine audio quality and complex routing are paramount.
Pros
- Rock-solid RME build quality; feels incredibly durable and professional.
- Exceptional preamps deliver clean, low-noise performance across a wide range of sources.
- TotalMix FX offers unparalleled routing flexibility and real-time processing capabilities.
Cons
- Premium-priced, a significant investment for smaller studios or hobbyists.
- The 1U rack height might be restrictive in some setups, requiring careful planning.
76AudioFu
Index↓ 13.5%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$2,069 · Aug 14$1,789 now$1,789€1,599 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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- Size19"
- Weight2.8 kg
The UFX III is a powerhouse interface for serious recording and mixing engineers. Its rock-solid stability, extensive I/O, and the TotalMix FX routing capabilities make it an absolute workhorse for complex projects. If you're running a professional studio or need unparalleled flexibility, this is a top-tier choice.
Pros
- AKM converters deliver exceptional clarity and dynamic range.
- DURec eliminates dropouts during critical recording moments.
- TotalMix FX provides unparalleled routing and mixing flexibility.
Cons
- The substantial weight makes rack mounting a necessity, not an option.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for smaller studios.
75AudioFu
Index↓ 3.0%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$2,684 · Aug 14$2,602 now$2,602€2,326 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Arturia AudioFuse 16Rig USB Audio Interface
AudioFuse 16Rig · Arturia
35 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
- Weight4.5 kg
The AudioFuse 16Rig is a seriously capable interface for producers and engineers who need flexible routing and a ton of I/O. Its robust build and DSP mixer are a big draw, making it perfect for complex studio setups or live recording rigs where you need granular control over your signal flow. It's not a budget option, but the quality and features justify the investment.
Pros
- Excellent build quality; robust metal chassis feels exceptionally solid and durable.
- Flexible routing capabilities via the DSP mixer offer significant workflow advantages.
- The dedicated monitor controls with custom buttons simplify complex studio setups.
Cons
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for smaller studios.
- USB-C connectivity limits compatibility with older computers.
74AudioFu
Index↓ 5.0%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$1,286 · Aug 14$1,221 now$1,221€1,091 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- 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 ↗
All 205 USB audio interfaces
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Focusrite ISA C8X USB-C Audio InterfaceISA C8X · Focusrite71↓ 6.5%$2,091€1,869$2,091€1,869Check ↗
- 12
Focusrite Scarlett 18i16 4th Gen USB Audio InterfaceScarlett 18i16 4th Gen · Focusrite70↓ 1.2%$536€479$536€479Check ↗
- 13
Focusrite Clarett+ 4Pre USB-C Audio InterfaceClarett+ 4Pre · Focusrite70↓ 6.5%$581€519$581€519Check ↗
- 14
Audient EVO 8 USB Audio InterfaceEVO 8 · Audient69↓ 11.8%$192€172$192€172Check ↗
- 15
Yamaha URX22C USB-C Audio InterfaceURX22 BK · Yamaha · 3 finishes69Stable$413€369$413€369Check ↗
- 16
Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre USB-C Audio InterfaceClarett+ 8Pre · Focusrite69↑ 10.3%$961€859$961€859Check ↗
- 17
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB Audio Interface Studio BundleScarlett Solo Studio 4th Gen. · Focusrite67↑ 6.0%$279€249$279€249Check ↗
- 18
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB Audio Interface Studio BundleScarlett 2i2 Studio 4th Gen. · Focusrite67↑ 10.8%$346€309$346€309Check ↗
- 19
TASCAM Mixcast 4 Digital Audio WorkstationMixcast 4 · Tascam67↓ 8.1%$468€418$468€418Check ↗
- 20
Arturia AudioFuse Studio USB-C Audio InterfaceAudioFuse Studio · Arturia67↓ 10.1%$894€799$894€799Check ↗
- 21
Audient EVO 16 USB Audio InterfaceEVO 16 · Audient66↓ 10.0%$502€449$502€449Check ↗
- 22
Yamaha AG06 MKII 6 Channel Analog MixerAG06 MK2 BK · Yamaha · 2 finishes65Stable$223€199$223€199Check ↗
- 23
Yamaha AG03 MKII 3 Channel Analog MixerAG03 MK2 BK · Yamaha · 2 finishes64↑ 12.3%$183€164$183€164Check ↗
- 24
Audient iD4 MKII USB-C Audio InterfaceiD4 MKII · Audient63↓ 3.3%$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 25
Focusrite Clarett+ 2Pre USB-C Audio InterfaceClarett+ 2Pre · Focusrite63↑ 15.0%$514€459$514€459Check ↗
- 26
Apogee Duet 3 USB-C Audio InterfaceDuet 3 · Apogee63↓ 10.8%$648€579$648€579Check ↗
- 27
Focusrite Vocaster One USB Audio InterfaceVocaster One · Focusrite62Stable$50€45$50€45Check ↗
- 28
MOTU M6 6-Channel USB-C Audio InterfaceM6 · MOTU62↓ 7.7%$525€469$525€469Check ↗
- 29
Audient iD44 MkII USB Audio InterfaceiD44 MKII · Audient62↓ 6.1%$566€506$566€506Check ↗
- 30
Audient iD48 USB Audio InterfaceiD48 · Audient62↓ 6.8%$926€828$926€828Check ↗
- 31
RME Hammerfall DSP Digiface Digital I/O For HDSP CardsDigiface AES · RME · 3 finishes62↓ 8.1%$1,901€1,699$1,901€1,699Check ↗
- 32
RME MADIface USB 128-Channel MADI USB InterfaceMadiface XT II · RME · 2 finishes62↓ 7.1%$2,181€1,949$2,181€1,949Check ↗
- 33
Audient ORIA USB Immersive Audio Interface and Monitor ControllerORIA · Audient62↓ 7.7%$3,221€2,879$3,221€2,879Check ↗
- 34
Audient iD24 USB-C Audio InterfaceiD24 · Audient61↓ 1.2%$357€319$357€319Check ↗
- 35
Yamaha AG08 8 Channel Analog MixerAG08 BL · Yamaha · 2 finishes61↓ 3.3%$497€444$497€444Check ↗
- 36
IK Multimedia iRig BlueTurn Compact Bluetooth Page TurneriRig USB · IK Multimedia · 2 finishes60Stable$69€62$69€62Check ↗
- 37
TASCAM Series 102i USB Audio InterfaceSeries 102i · Tascam60↓ 23.6%$196€175$196€175Check ↗
- 38
Fender Link I/O USB Audio InterfaceLink I/O Interface · Fender59↓ 13.9%$76€68$76€68Check ↗
- 39
Audient iD14 MKII USB-C Audio InterfaceiD14 MKII · Audient59↓ 1.4%$239€214$239€214Check ↗
- 40
Fender Studio Quantum HD2 USB-C Audio InterfaceQuantum HD2 · Fender Studio59↓ 6.4%$491€439$491€439Check ↗
- 41
Focusrite Vocaster Two USB Audio InterfaceVocaster Two · Focusrite58Stable$77€69$77€69Check ↗
- 42
Audient EVO 4 USB Audio InterfaceEVO 4 · Audient58↓ 7.0%$119€106$119€106Check ↗
- 43
Universal Audio Volt 2 USB Recording StudioUniversal Audio · 3 finishes58↓ 11.3%$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 44
Antelope Audio Zen Quadro Synergy Core USB-C Audio InterfaceZen Quadro Synergy Core · Antelope58↓ 4.2%$670€599$670€599Check ↗
- 45
IK Multimedia iRig Stream Ultra-Compact USB Audio InterfaceiRig Stream · IK Multimedia57↑ 4.2%$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 46
Universal Audio Volt 1 USB Recording StudioUniversal Audio · 2 finishes57↓ 17.0%$125€112$125€112Check ↗
- 47
Mackie MainStream USB-C Streaming Audio InterfaceMainStream · Mackie57↓ 8.0%$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 48
Black Lion Audio Revolution 6x6 USB-C Audio InterfaceRevolution 6x6 · Black Lion Audio57↓ 15.3%$558€499$558€499Check ↗
- 49
Universal Audio Volt 4 Gen 2 USB-C Audio Interface 2026Volt 4P Max · Universal Audio · 3 finishes57Stable$558€499$558€499Check ↗
- 50
Lewitt Connect 6 USB-C Audio InterfaceConnect 6 · Lewitt56↑ 2.5%$274€245$274€245Check ↗
- 51
ART TUBEMIX 5-Channel Mixer with USB Interface and Assignable 12AX7…TubeMix · ART56Stable$514€459$514€459Check ↗
- 52
Universal Audio Apollo Twin X Duo Heritage Edition USB 3.0 Audio…Apollo Twin X USB Heritage · Universal Audio56Stable$1,006€899$1,006€899Check ↗
- 53
Antelope Audio Discrete 8 Synergy Core Thunderbolt / USB Audio…Discrete 8 Oryx Synergy Core · Antelope56Stable$1,341€1,199$1,341€1,199Check ↗
- 54
M-Audio M-Track Duo USB Audio InterfaceM-Track DUO · M-Audio55Stable$60€54$60€54Check ↗
- 55
M-Audio M-Track Duo USB Audio InterfaceM-Track Duo HD · M-Audio55↓ 16.7%$73€65$73€65Check ↗
- 56
Behringer Xenyx CONTROL2USB Studio Monitor ControllerStudio L · Behringer55↓ 7.2%$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 57
Black Lion Audio Revolution 2x2 USB Type-C Audio InterfaceRevolution 2x2 · Black Lion Audio55Stable$323€289$323€289Check ↗
- 58
Reloop Flux 3-channel 6x6 DVS InterfaceFlux · Reloop55↓ 5.1%$413€369$413€369Check ↗
- 59
Universal Audio Apollo Solo Heritage Edition Thunderbolt 3 Audio…Apollo Solo USB Heritage Ed. · Universal Audio55↑ 31.7%$670€599$670€599Check ↗
- 60
MOTU M4 USB-C Audio InterfaceM4 · MOTU54↓ 3.0%$323€289$323€289Check ↗
- 61
M-Audio M-Track Solo USB Audio InterfaceM-Track Solo · M-Audio53Stable$51€46$51€46Check ↗
- 62
Neumann MT48 4-Channel USB-C Audio InterfaceMT 48 U · Neumann53Stable$2,013€1,799$2,013€1,799Check ↗
- 63
Prism Sound Titan 8-Channel USB AD ConverterTitan · Prism Sound53Stable$4,250€3,799$4,250€3,799Check ↗
- 64
RODE AI-1 USB Audio InterfaceAI-1 · Rode52↓ 10.1%$130€116$130€116Check ↗
- 65
Behringer UV1Behringer52Stable$140€125$140€125Check ↗
- 66
Blackstar Polar 2 USB Audio InterfacePolar 2 WT · Blackstar52↓ 11.8%$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 67
Korg microAUDIO 22 USB-C Audio InterfacemicroAUDIO 22 · Korg52Stable$195€174$195€174Check ↗
- 68
Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 3rd Gen USB Audio InterfaceScarlett 8i6 3rd Gen · Focusrite52Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 69
Universal Audio Volt 876 USB Recording StudioUniversal Audio52Stable$978€874$978€874Check ↗
- 70
RODE Wireless Micro USB C Wireless Microphone SystemAI-Micro · Rode51Stable$77€69$77€69Check ↗
- 71
Apogee Jam X USB Audio InterfaceJam X · Apogee51↑ 5.3%$223€199$223€199Check ↗
- 72
IK Multimedia iRig Pre 2 XLR Portable InterfaceiRig Pre HD · IK Multimedia50Stable$86€77$86€77Check ↗
- 73
Roland Rubix 22 2x2 USB Audio InterfaceRubix22 · Roland50Stable$177€158$177€158Check ↗
- 74
Roland Rubix24 2x4 USB Audio InterfaceRubix24 · Roland50↑ 11.2%$223€199$223€199Check ↗
- 75
MOTU M2 USB-C Audio InterfaceM2 · MOTU50↑ 3.1%$264€236$264€236Check ↗
- 76
Roland GO:MIXER STUDIO USB-C Audio InterfaceGO:MIXER Studio · Roland50Stable$312€279$312€279Check ↗
- 77
Universal Audio Volt 476P USB Recording StudioUniversal Audio · 2 finishes50↓ 1.7%$458€409$458€409Check ↗
- 78
Behringer UMC1820 U-Phoria USB 2.0 Audio InterfaceUMC1820 · Behringer49↓ 5.9%$178€159$178€159Check ↗
- 79
Universal Audio Volt 176 USB Recording StudioUniversal Audio49↓ 11.2%$178€159$178€159Check ↗
- 80
Roland Bridge Cast XRoland49↓ 15.8%$423€378$423€378Check ↗
- 81
MOTU UltraLite-mk5 USB-C Audio InterfaceUltraLite mk5 · MOTU49↓ 3.1%$828€740$828€740Check ↗
- 82
MOTU 848 USB-C / Thunderbolt Audio Interface848 · MOTU49↓ 7.3%$1,950€1,743$1,950€1,743Check ↗
- 83
Behringer U-Phoria UMC204HD USB Audio InterfaceU-Phoria UMC204HD · Behringer48↓ 12.7%$77€69$77€69Check ↗
- 84
Blackstar Polar Go USB-C Audio InterfacePolar Go · Blackstar48Stable$95€85$95€85Check ↗
- 85
SSL 2 MKIISSL · 2 finishes48↓ 2.3%$239€214$239€214Check ↗
- 86
IK Multimedia AXE I/O+AmpliTube5+Tonex MAXIK Multimedia48↓ 10.1%$397€355$397€355Check ↗
- 87
Maono Maonocaster AME2Maono47↓ 19.8%$100€89$100€89Check ↗
- 88
Lewitt Connect 2Lewitt47↓ 28.5%$143€128$143€128Check ↗
- 89
iConnectivity PlayAUDIO2UiConnectivity · 2 finishes47↓ 4.0%$2,813€2,514$2,813€2,514Check ↗
- 90
Behringer Xenyx 302USBBehringer46↓ 4.4%$48€43$48€43Check ↗
- 91
Zoom AMS-22 USB-C Audio Interface for Music and StreamingAMS-22 · Zoom46Stable$88€79$88€79Check ↗
- 92
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd GenFocusrite46Stable$100€89$100€89Check ↗
- 93
Behringer U-PHORIA UMC404HD 4x4 USB Audio InterfaceUMC404HD · Behringer46↓ 4.0%$106€95$106€95Check ↗
- 94
Zoom AMS-24 USB-C Audio Interface for Music and StreamingAMS-24 · Zoom46↓ 2.5%$130€116$130€116Check ↗
- 95
Roland Rubix 44 4x4 USB Audio InterfaceRubix44 · Roland46↑ 13.7%$279€249$279€249Check ↗
- 96
Black Lion Audio Revolution 14x16Black Lion Audio46↓ 13.5%$1,431€1,279$1,431€1,279Check ↗
- 97
Focusrite ISA C8X Sonnox ISA EssentialFocusrite · 2 finishes46↓ 5.7%$2,427€2,169$2,427€2,169Check ↗
- 98
Behringer U-Phoria UMC22 USB Audio InterfaceU-Phoria UMC22 · Behringer45↓ 2.7%$40€36$40€36Check ↗
- 99
Zoom AMS-44 USB-C Audio Interface for Music and StreamingAMS-44 · Zoom45↓ 6.1%$173€155$173€155Check ↗
- 100
Korg microAUDIO 722 USB-C Audio InterfacemicroAUDIO 722 · Korg45Stable$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 101
Universal Audio Volt 276 USB Recording StudioUniversal Audio45↓ 1.2%$283€253$283€253Check ↗
- 102
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen. Mic BundFocusrite45Stable$290€259$290€259Check ↗
- 103
RME Digiface Dante USB Audio InterfaceDigiface Dante · RME45↓ 4.7%$1,374€1,228$1,374€1,228Check ↗
- 104
Prism Sound Lyra 2 USB Audio InterfaceLyra 2 · Prism Sound45↑ 8.7%$2,796€2,499$2,796€2,499Check ↗
- 105
Neve 1073SPX-DNeve · 2 finishes45Stable$2,908€2,599$2,908€2,599Check ↗
- 106
Antelope Orion Studio SC Immersive BdlAntelope45↓ 7.1%$3,635€3,249$3,635€3,249Check ↗
- 107
ESI UGM192ESI44↓ 55.1%$55€49$55€49Check ↗
- 108
ESI Neva OTGESI44↓ 40.0%$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 109
ESI Amber i1ESI44↓ 17.1%$120€107$120€107Check ↗
- 110
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th GenFocusrite44↑ 3.1%$149€133$149€133Check ↗
- 111
ESI Gigaport eXESI44Stable$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 112
TASCAM US-2x2HR High Resolution USB Audio InterfaceUS-2x2HR · Tascam44↑ 7.6%$173€155$173€155Check ↗
- 113
ESI Amber i2ESI44↓ 18.0%$173€155$173€155Check ↗
- 114
IK Multimedia iRig Stream ProIK Multimedia44↓ 0.6%$178€159$178€159Check ↗
- 115
TASCAM US-4X4HR High Resolution USB Audio InterfaceUS-4x4HR · Tascam44Stable$237€212$237€212Check ↗
- 116
MOTU OctaLiteMOTU44↓ 2.5%$1,057€945$1,057€945Check ↗
- 117
Arturia AudioFuse Studio Rev2Arturia44↓ 1.0%$1,095€979$1,095€979Check ↗
- 118
Shure Motiv MVX2U Gen 2Shure · 2 finishes43↓ 12.6%$156€139$156€139Check ↗
- 119
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th GenerationFocusrite43↑ 5.6%$211€189$211€189Check ↗
- 120
TC-Helicon Go XLR-WHTC-Helicon43↓ 15.5%$311€278$311€278Check ↗
- 121
SSL 18SSL43↓ 2.2%$1,027€918$1,027€918Check ↗
- 122
MOTU 828 (2024)MOTU43Stable$1,286€1,149$1,286€1,149Check ↗
- 123
Yamaha UR12 MK3 WhiteYamaha · 2 finishes42Stable$106€95$106€95Check ↗
- 124
Yamaha UR22 MK3 WhiteYamaha · 2 finishes42Stable$147€131$147€131Check ↗
- 125
SSL 1SSL42Stable$178€159$178€159Check ↗
- 126
iConnectivity PlayAUDIO1UiConnectivity42↓ 5.1%$1,279€1,143$1,279€1,143Check ↗
- 127
MOTU 16A (2025)MOTU42↑ 1.9%$1,995€1,783$1,995€1,783Check ↗
- 128
RME Digiface Ravenna Dante USB InterfaceDigiface Ravenna · RME42↓ 3.5%$2,158€1,929$2,158€1,929Check ↗
- 129
Apogee Symphony Studio 2x12Apogee42↓ 3.5%$2,438€2,179$2,438€2,179Check ↗
- 130
Metric Halo LIO-8 mkIVMetric Halo42↑ 10.6%$2,684€2,399$2,684€2,399Check ↗
- 131
SSL UMD192SSL42Stable$3,053€2,729$3,053€2,729Check ↗
- 132
Metric Halo ULN-8 mkIVMetric Halo42↑ 9.5%$3,355€2,999$3,355€2,999Check ↗
- 133
Behringer U-Control UCA202Behringer41↓ 10.5%$19€17$19€17Check ↗
- 134
Fender Studio Quantum LT 2Fender Studio41Stable$131€117$131€117Check ↗
- 135
Fender Studio Quantum LT 4Fender Studio41Stable$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 136
Zoom UAC-232 USB-C Audio InterfaceUAC-232 · Zoom41↑ 6.6%$198€177$198€177Check ↗
- 137
Antelope Zenith 2Antelope41Stable$323€289$323€289Check ↗
- 138
Neve 88MNeve40Stable$1,330€1,189$1,330€1,189Check ↗
- 139
Behringer U-Phoria UM2 2x2 USB Audio InterfaceU-Phoria UM2 · Behringer39Stable$32€29$32€29Check ↗
- 140
Swissonic Audio 2Swissonic39Stable$66€59$66€59Check ↗
- 141
TC-Helicon GO XLR MiniTC-Helicon39↓ 16.1%$140€125$140€125Check ↗
- 142
XVive More You 2xXVive39↓ 18.7%$199€178$199€178Check ↗
- 143
Arturia MiniFuse 2 Recording PackMiniFuse Recording Pack Black · Arturia · 2 finishes39↓ 3.5%$312€279$312€279Check ↗
- 144
Tascam US-16x08 USB Audio InterfaceUS-16x08 · Tascam39↑ 4.7%$397€355$397€355Check ↗
- 145
TASCAM Mixcast 4 Digital Audio WorkstationMixcast 4 Bag Bundle · Tascam39↓ 5.8%$543€485$543€485Check ↗
- 146
freqport FreqInOut FO1_2RKfreqport39Stable$1,286€1,149$1,286€1,149Check ↗
- 147
the t.bone USB 1Gthe t.bone · 2 finishes38Stable$17€15$17€15Check ↗
- 148
Fun Generation UA-202Fun Generation38Stable$21€19$21€19Check ↗
- 149
ESI Neva UnoESI38↓ 3.4%$64€57$64€57Check ↗
- 150
Behringer U-PHORIA UMC202HD USB 2.0 Audio InterfaceU-Phoria UMC202HD · Behringer38↑ 1.5%$67€60$67€60Check ↗
- 151
Focusrite Vocaster One StudioFocusrite38Stable$77€69$77€69Check ↗
- 152
Tight AV Dante 2x2 USBC 2.0 AdapterTight AV38↓ 20.1%$178€159$178€159Check ↗
- 153
XVive More You HubXVive38↓ 14.9%$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 154
SSL 12SSL38↓ 8.1%$408€365$408€365Check ↗
- 155
Shure SM4 Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser MicrophoneSM4 Bundle · Shure38↓ 9.9%$408€365$408€365Check ↗
- 156
Bitwig Connect 4/12Bitwig38Stable$547€489$547€489Check ↗
- 157
Harrison Audio Flex-10Harrison Audio38Stable$704€629$704€629Check ↗
- 158
RME Babyface Pro FSRME38↓ 2.7%$811€725$811€725Check ↗
- 159
Behringer UFO202Behringer37Stable$17€15$17€15Check ↗
- 160
Maono Maonocaster G1 NEOMaono37↓ 12.5%$47€42$47€42Check ↗
- 161
ESI U24 XLESI37↓ 1.3%$86€77$86€77Check ↗
- 162
Roland Bridge Cast OneRoland37↓ 4.0%$190€170$190€170Check ↗
- 163
ESI Amber i4ESI37↓ 3.2%$267€239$267€239Check ↗
- 164
Heritage Audio i73 Pro EdgeHeritage Audio37↓ 15.3%$947€846$947€846Check ↗
- 165
ESI Maya 22 USBESI36Stable$44€39$44€39Check ↗
- 166
ESI Neva DuoESI36Stable$86€77$86€77Check ↗
- 167
ESI Maya 44 USB+ESI36↓ 1.0%$110€98$110€98Check ↗
- 168
IK Multimedia iRig Pro I/OIK Multimedia36Stable$140€125$140€125Check ↗
- 169
IK Multimedia iRig Pro Duo I/OIK Multimedia36Stable$185€165$185€165Check ↗
- 170
IK Multimedia iRig Keys I/O 49iRig Keys I/O 49 Bundle · IK Multimedia36Stable$211€189$211€189Check ↗
- 171
Roland Go:Mixer Pro-XRoland35Stable$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 172
Electro Harmonix Effects Interface Hardw.PlugInElectro Harmonix35↓ 9.4%$323€289$323€289Check ↗
- 173
MOTU 10preMOTU35Stable$1,923€1,719$1,923€1,719Check ↗
- 174
ART USB Phono Plus PSART34↓ 2.5%$130€116$130€116Check ↗
- 175
Reloop Flux GoReloop34Stable$245€219$245€219Check ↗
- 176
freqport FreqInOut FO1freqport34↓ 5.1%$625€559$625€559Check ↗
- 177
the t.bone MicPlug USBthe t.bone33Stable$37€33$37€33Check ↗
- 178
Dante AVIO USB IO Adapter 2x2Dante33↓ 2.4%$228€204$228€204Check ↗
- 179
Reloop Flux 3-channel 6x6 DVS InterfaceFlux Bag Bundle · Reloop33↓ 5.0%$430€384$430€384Check ↗
- 180
Reloop Flux 3-channel 6x6 DVS InterfaceFlux Case Bundle · Reloop33↓ 4.9%$435€389$435€389Check ↗
- 181
ART TUBEMIX 5-Channel Mixer with USB Interface and Assignable 12AX7…TubeMix Case Bundle · ART33Stable$557€498$557€498Check ↗
- 182
Dante AVIO USB-C IO Adapter 2x2Dante32Stable$234€209$234€209Check ↗
- 183
Audiowerkzeug CoDi MK3Audiowerkzeug32Stable$368€329$368€329Check ↗
- 184
Audiowerkzeug DiGI MK3Audiowerkzeug32Stable$368€329$368€329Check ↗
- 185
Antelope Audio Orion Studio Synergy Core Thunderbolt Audio Interface…Orion Studio SC Stereo Bundle · Antelope32↑ 7.3%$3,299€2,949$3,299€2,949Check ↗
- 186
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th GenerationFocusrite31↑ 20.3%$319€285$319€285Check ↗
- 187
Miditech Guitarface IIMiditech30Stable$25€22$25€22Check ↗
- 188
Joyo Momix Pro Portable InterfaceJoyo30Stable$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 189
Xsonic Xtone Interface/Foot ControlXsonic30Stable$156€139$156€139Check ↗
- 190
Audiosigma MikeHero DSPAudiosigma30Stable$357€319$357€319Check ↗
- 191
EVO 16 Rack BundleEVO30↓ 9.2%$517€462$517€462Check ↗
- 192
Yellowtec PUC2 LiteYellowtec30Stable$536€479$536€479Check ↗
- 193
Modular Audio Tools MAT 16X8Modular Audio Tools30Stable$536€479$536€479Check ↗
- 194
Swissonic Audio 2 Podcast BundleSwissonic28Stable$223€199$223€199Check ↗
- 195
Behringer U-Control UCA222 2-Channel 16 Bit / 48kHz USB InterfaceU-Control UCA222 · Behringer27↑ 42.1%$22€20$22€20Check ↗
- 196
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd NT1 A BundleFocusrite27Stable$279€249$279€249Check ↗
- 197
SSL 12 Decksaver BundleSSL27↓ 5.6%$453€405$453€405Check ↗
- 198
Behringer Xenyx 302USB Headset BundleBehringer26Stable$95€85$95€85Check ↗
- 199
Reloop Flux Go Bag BundleReloop25Stable$263€235$263€235Check ↗
- 200
Focusrite Vocaster Two Headphone BundleFocusrite24↓ 5.9%$90€80$90€80Check ↗
- 201
Sound Devices MixPre-6 II Orca Bag BundleSound Devices23Stable$1,677€1,499$1,677€1,499Check ↗
- 202
IK Multimedia iRig Pro I/O PSU BundleIK Multimedia22Stable$188€168$188€168Check ↗
- 203
M-Audio M-Track Duo HD Producer PackM-Audio20Stable$173€155$173€155Check ↗
- 204
Fender Studio Quantum Creator BundleFender Studio20Stable$272€243$272€243Check ↗
- 205
Fender Studio Quantum Complete BundleFender Studio20Stable$351€314$351€314Check ↗
USB Audio Interfaces by the numbers
Measured across all 239 models we track, not a sample.
Median $274 — half of all USB audio interfaces here cost less.
median of 131 models · 0.32 kg–4.5 kg
median of 32 models · 4.3"–19"
How to choose the best USB audio interfaces
Preamp Quality
This is HUGE. Cheap preamps can sound brittle, lack low-end thump, or introduce unwanted noise. We're listening for a clean, transparent sound with enough headroom to handle hot signals without clipping, but also a little character if it's there - that subtle warmth or slight saturation can be a lifesaver.
Latency
Nobody wants to hear a noticeable delay when monitoring through the interface. Low latency is crucial for comfortable tracking, especially for keys and vocals. It's a balance - lower latency often means sacrificing some processing power.
Connectivity
How many inputs and outputs do you really need? Consider your current and future setup - a solo acoustic guitarist might be fine with two inputs, while a band tracking drums will need more. Don't overbuy, but don't get stuck wanting more later.
Driver Stability
A rock-solid driver is worth its weight in gold. Nothing's worse than a session derailed by crashes and glitches. We're testing driver stability across different operating systems and DAWs.
Build Quality
Let's be real, these things get tossed around. A flimsy plastic enclosure isn't going to survive a gigging lifestyle. We're looking for something that feels solid and can take a beating, even if it's not quite aircraft-grade aluminum.
Buying guide
So, you're looking for a USB audio interface that won't bankrupt you, but still lets you get some decent recordings done? That's a smart move. You don't need to drop five grand to get a functional and surprisingly capable interface, but you do need to know what you're getting. Let's break down some solid options under $5000, focusing on bang-for-your-buck and what you can realistically expect.
At this price point, you're going to find trade-offs. Generally, the more inputs you need, the more likely you'll be sacrificing a bit on preamp quality or build. Don't chase specs - listen to demos and read reviews from other musicians.
A slightly more expensive interface with better preamps will often yield a better result than a cheaper one with more bells and whistles.
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 239 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 a USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 interface?
USB 3.0 offers faster transfer speeds, which can be beneficial for high sample rates and lots of simultaneous tracks, but most modern computers can handle USB 2.0 interfaces just fine. It's not a huge deal unless you're pushing the limits.
Do I need phantom power?
If you plan on using condenser microphones, yes. Phantom power provides the necessary voltage to power them. Dynamic mics don't need it.
What's 'roundtrip latency' and why should I care?
It's the total delay from when you play an instrument to when you hear it through the interface. Lower is better - aim for under 10ms for comfortable tracking.
Can I use this interface for live sound?
While possible, these interfaces are primarily designed for recording. They might lack the robust routing and monitoring capabilities needed for a full band live setup. Consider a dedicated live sound interface if that's your priority.
What about Thunderbolt interfaces? Are they better?
Thunderbolt offers even lower latency and more bandwidth than USB, but it requires a Thunderbolt port on your computer and often comes at a higher price. USB interfaces have closed the gap significantly, and for most home/project studio setups, the difference isn't huge.





