The best audio interfaces under $1,000: High-end recording at a low price

Shopping for the best audio interfaces under $1,000 has never been easier. Gone are the days when recording decent audio meant having to shell out thousands of dollars on recording equipment. These days, it’s easy to spend just a few hundred dollars on equipment, and specifically a good audio interface, that sounds almost as good as a top-level studio. Of course, there are dozens of audio interface options out there in the sub-$1,000 price range, and they’re not all created equal. That, however, is why we’ve put together this guide.

Before buying an audio interface, it’s worth considering a few things. For starters, you’ll want to think about the number of inputs and outputs you need from your audio interface. It’s generally a good idea to get more inputs and output than you think you’ll need. This allows you to grow a little and record more instruments down the line. It’s also a good idea to consider how the interface will communicate with your computer — whether you need a USB-C compatible interface, or prefer to go with an interface with an older connectivity method.

And, of course, you’ll want to think about price range. All of these audio interfaces are under $1,000 — but $1,000 might be a little expensive for some, so we’ve included far cheaper interfaces too.

Best audio interface under $1,000: PreSonus Quantum 2626

If you have $1,000 to spend on an audio interface and want the best interface out there, then the PreSonus Quantum 2626 is simply the way to go. The interface boasts a ton of I/O, a great design, and more — and we think it’s able to go head to head with interfaces much more expensive.

This is the first of a few PreSonus interfaces on the list, and for good reason. PreSonus is known for building excellent-value interfaces, and it has pretty much cornered much of the market in the sub-$1,000 price range. The PreSonus Quantum 2626 boasts a number of features you would normally expect on more expensive interfaces.

For example, the interface offers up to a hefty 26 inputs, and up to 26 outputs, with eight of those inputs coming in the form of built-in preamps. You’ll also get MIDI support.

Last but not least, it connects to your computer through Thunderbolt 3, making for a fast, latency-free recording setup. You also get PreSonus’ StudioOne recording software, which is getting better and better every time it’s updated.

Best compact audio interface under $1,000: Universal Audio Arrow

If you do want to take advantage of the new Thunderbolt 3 standard in a compact form-factor, then there are a few options for you.

Perhaps the best of those is the Universal Audio Arrow, which is a compact, well-designed interface aimed at small studios that won’t need to use a ton of inputs at once.

The Universal Audio Arrow has two mic pros built in to it, and as you would expect from Universal Audio gear, they sound awesome. On the front of the interface, you’ll get LED input and output indicators and a few monitoring controls, while on the back is where you’ll find the two preamps and outputs, as well as the Thunderbolt port.

Safe to say, this audio interface is a beautiful device — but it’s probably not the best choice for larger setups.

Best converters in an audio interface under $1,000: MOTU M Series

MOTU has always been a company that offers some of the best conversion in audio interfaces at any price point. The M Series comes with ESS Sabre32 converters that are also used in interfaces that cost into the thousands.

The M Series comes in two, four, and six channel models, and the I/O is one of the most appealing features. Depending on the model there are inputs with phantom power and direct monitoring, dedicated 1/4″ monitor and line outputs, RCA monitor and line outs, and MIDI in/out.

Accurate front panel metering gives you an easy visual reference over signal levels. The loopback function is great for podcasters and streamers that don’t want to twist knobs and deal with menus.

Everything is housed in a sturdy, ergonomic metal enclosure with a small footprint. The price point is incredible considering the wealth of features, and the only real downside is they are bus power only. So if you work on a laptop using it will reduce the battery life while it’s in use.

Best desktop audio interface under $1,000: Audient iD14

Audient always crafted great large format consoles, but recently they’ve made quite a name for themselves in the smaller interface market. Their iD series is a line of desktop consoles that might be smaller, but pack plenty of punch.

It uses their Console Mic Preamp, the same found in their ASP8024-E large format console. The conversion is great, especially for a less expensive interface. They offer 121dB of dynamic range, so headroom shouldn’t be a concern.

One of the best parts? You can expand the channel count through ADAT or S/PDIF connections, making it a fine centerpiece as your studio expands. It features talkback as well, another feature you don’t normally see in interfaces this size.

Best audio interface with ADAT: Solid State Logic SSL 12

ADAT is an older standard, but it’s still a valuable way to connect disparate pieces of audio gear. Whether you want to expand your channel count or add hardware processing it’s a fast and useful methodology. But not many audio interfaces offer it – especially in the sub $1,000 price range.

The SSL 12 is one of the best. It features four SSL-designed preamps with enough gain to handle most sources and microphones. Each channel has a 4K Legacy switch to add some console color to the signal without using plugins.

Speaking of plugins, it comes with a three month subscription to the SSL Production Pack. This is a suite of plugins that includes everything from hardware emulation to effects processing and vocal tuning.

Unfortunately, it only features an ADAT IN port so you can’t output signal. But you can expand the channel count of an interface that may be small, but is powerful enough to become a studio centerpiece.

Best audio interface under $500: Focusrite Scarlett 18i20

While there are plenty of great interfaces under $1,000, you don’t necessarily need to spend that much. Why? There are some excellent devices under $500 too — like, for example, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20.

The Scarlett 18i20 has a lot going for it, even in this price range. For example, you’ll get a nice 18 inputs and 20 outputs, with eight built-in Scarlett microphone preamps and two instrument inputs designed for hot pickups.

Focusrite has made headlines over the years for its excellent conversion too, and the Scarlett 18i20 is no exception to that rule. In the box, you’ll also get some pretty sweet software instruments and plug-ins, including the Focusrite Red plug-in suite, Avid’s Pro Tools First, and more.

Best audio interface under $300: Audient Evo 8

Looking for something ultra easy to get started with? The Audio Evo 8 is built for just that. The interface is sleek and stylish, plus it makes things as easy to understand as possible.

It has two mic preamps and an instrument input built into, as well as monitor and two headphone outputs, a big volume knob, and a SmartGain feature that automatically adjusts your microphones’ gain without you having to do anything.

That big knob actually controls the volume of a range of different things around the interface, including the headphone and monitor output. It’s pretty cool.

Best audio interface under $100: PreSonus AudioBox USB 96

Simply want to get started with recording and don’t have much cash to set aside? The PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is the audio interface for you. PreSonus has made quite a name when it comes to low-cost, high-quality products. The AudioBox 96 is no exception to that rule.

We reviewed the AudioBox USB 96, and found it offers excellent audio quality, with some great features like MIDI support — things that can seriously come in handy in an interface in this price range. 

The AudioBox USB 96 is also capable of recording audio at up to 96kHz, which is a step up from thee previous generation AudioBox, which was limited to 48kHz.

FAQ

Do expensive audio interfaces sound better?

More expensive interfaces do usually sound better overall. You’ll also find more consistent quality in general. Less expensive interfaces don’t all sound great, but there are some very good ones available, like those from Audient, Universal Audio, and PreSonus.

Does a cheap interface affect sound quality?

Price isn’t necessarily equivalent to sound quality. More expensive interfaces use better components. When it comes to sound quality you need to think about converter quality, preamps, and your playback system. Good monitors give you a better idea of how things actually sound, so you want a good set.

What is the best brand of audio interface?

In terms of the best audio interfaces under $1,000, Universal Audio, PreSonus, Audient, and Focusrite all make great gear. We chose the PreSonus Quantum 2626. The Universal Audio Apollo Arrow is great too, and gives you access to the great sounds of the UA plugins.

Do I need external preamps or other gear with my interface?

Most interfaces under $1,000 have high-quality built-in preamps. But there is value in using external preamps for their unique tonal characteristics and signal options.