Buying Guide
The Best M-Audio Audio Interfaces for a Cleaner, More Useful Desk
We looked at 8 M-audio audio interfaces side by side, with the trade-offs that separate them and who each one suits.
By Jamie Cole, Lead Product Researcher
11 min read8 products evaluated
We may earn a commission from purchases made through links in this guide. Learn more.
Best M-Audio Audio Interfaces aren't as interchangeable as they seem. That means a title alone won't tell you enough.
This roundup weighs documented latency and input count, given that this is the real gap to watch.
Quick Picks
Our 8 recommendations at a glance. Tap a pick for the full verdict.

Best Overall
M-AUDIO M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface
Buyers who want the strongest all-around pick in this comparison and would rather not keep shopping around
Our take Check price for M-AUDIO M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface (opens in a new tab)

Best Value
M-AUDIO M-Track Solo USB Audio Interface
Buyers who want a capable pick without paying for headroom you won't use
Our take Check price for M-AUDIO M-Track Solo USB Audio Interface (opens in a new tab)

Solid Alternative
M-AUDIO M-Track Duo HD USB-C Audio Interface
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for M-AUDIO M-Track Duo HD USB-C Audio Interface (opens in a new tab)

Another Strong Option
M-AUDIO M-Track Duo HD Recording Studio Pack
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for M-AUDIO M-Track Duo HD Recording Studio Pack (opens in a new tab)

Runner-Up Pick
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB-C Audio Interface
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB-C Audio Interface (opens in a new tab)

Worth a Look
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB-C Audio Interface
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB-C Audio Interface (opens in a new tab)

Best Premium Pick
M-AUDIO AIR 192x14 USB-C Audio Interface for Studio Recording with 8 In and 4
Buyers who are willing to spend the most in this comparison for the fuller feature set that comes with it
Our take Check price for M-AUDIO AIR 192x14 USB-C Audio Interface for Studio Recording with 8 In and 4 (opens in a new tab)

Also Worth Considering
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB-C Audio Interface
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB-C Audio Interface (opens in a new tab)
Our Picks
Best Overall1 of 8
M-AUDIO M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
M-AUDIO M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface is the top pick in this comparison.
Best for
- Buyers who want the strongest all-around pick in this comparison and would rather not keep shopping around
Why we like it
Podcast, record, live stream, this portable audio interface covers it all - USB sound card for mac or PC delivers 48khz audio resolution for pristine recording every time. Record guitar, vocals or line input signals with two combo XLR / line / instrument inputs with phantom power.
Side by side with M-AUDIO M-Track Solo USB Audio Interface, the real difference worth noting is everything you demand from an audio interface for fuss-free monitoring - 1/4" headphone output and stereo 1/4" outputs for total monitoring flexibility; USB/direct switch for zero latency monitoring.
This fits best if you want the strongest all-around pick in this comparison and would rather not keep shopping around. Bundled software licenses vary by retailer and aren't always the full paid version, so check the specific bundle before assuming you get everything advertised.
Key dimensions & specs
- Podcast, record, live stream, this portable audio
- Record guitar, vocals or line input signals
- Everything you demand from an audio interface
Pros
- Podcast, record, live stream, this portable audio
- Record guitar, vocals or line input signals
- Everything you demand from an audio interface
- Get the best out of your microphones
Cons
- Bundled software licenses vary and aren't always full versions
- Driver stability can vary by operating system version
Best Value2 of 8
M-AUDIO M-Track Solo USB Audio Interface on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
M-AUDIO M-Track Solo USB Audio Interface is the most affordable pick here that still clears the capability floor for this category.
Best for
- Buyers who want a capable pick without paying for headroom you won't use
Why we like it
Podcast, record, live stream, this portable audio interface covers it all - USB sound card for mac or PC delivers 48khz audio resolution for pristine recording every time. Record guitar, vocals or line input signals with one combo XLR / line input with phantom power and one line / instrument input.
Weighing this against M-AUDIO M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface, everything you demand from an audio interface for fuss-free monitoring - 1/8" headphone output and stereo RCA outputs for total monitoring flexibility; USB/direct switch for zero latency monitoring ends up being the detail that matters most for most buyers.
This one is the right call if you want a capable pick without paying for headroom you won't use. Driver stability can vary by operating system version, so check recent user reports for your specific OS before buying.
Key dimensions & specs
- Podcast, record, live stream, this portable audio
- Record guitar, vocals or line input signals
- Everything you demand from an audio interface
Pros
- Podcast, record, live stream, this portable audio
- Record guitar, vocals or line input signals
- Everything you demand from an audio interface
- Get the best out of your microphones
Cons
- Driver stability can vary by operating system version
- Bundled software licenses vary and aren't always full versions
Solid Alternative3 of 8
M-AUDIO M-Track Duo HD USB-C Audio Interface on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
M-AUDIO M-Track Duo HD USB-C Audio Interface is a strong alternative worth comparing directly against the top pick.
Best for
- Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Why we like it
Podcast, record, live stream - m-track duo HD is a powerful 2-in/2-out USB-C audio interface for creating and recording studio-quality sound with any modern DAW or ios/android device. Convenient connectivity - 2 combo inputs for mic, guitar, bass, or line-level; headphone output with independent level control; USB-C with direct/USB monitor switch to tailor your monitoring output.
Pro-grade quality - 24-bit/192khz audio resolution with zero-latency monitoring captures every nuance of recorded sound; equally suited for beginner producers, session musicians and pro podcasters, which is the main thing that distinguishes this pick from M-AUDIO M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface.
Go with this pick if you want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly. Bundled software licenses vary by retailer and aren't always the full paid version, so check the specific bundle before assuming you get everything advertised.
Key dimensions & specs
- Podcast, record, live stream - m-track duo
- Convenient connectivity - 2 combo inputs
- Pro-grade quality - 24-bit/192khz audio resolution
Pros
- Podcast, record, live stream - m-track duo
- Convenient connectivity - 2 combo inputs
- Pro-grade quality - 24-bit/192khz audio resolution
- Pro-grade audio without hassle - whether you're
Cons
- Bundled software licenses vary and aren't always full versions
- Driver stability can vary by operating system version
Another Strong Option4 of 8
M-AUDIO M-Track Duo HD Recording Studio Pack on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
M-AUDIO M-Track Duo HD Recording Studio Pack is a strong alternative worth comparing directly against the top pick.
Best for
- Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Why we like it
Podcast, record, live stream - a powerful m-audio combo of 2-in/2-out USB-C m-track duo HD audio interface with hdh41 over-ear studio monitoring headphones and a pro-grade m100 condenser microphone. Convenient connectivity - 2 combo inputs for mic, guitar, bass, or line-level; headphone output with independent level control; USB-C with direct/USB monitor switch to tailor your monitoring output.
M-AUDIO M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface lands in a similar spot overall, but the deciding factor between the two is pro-grade quality - 24-bit/192khz audio resolution with zero-latency monitoring captures every nuance of recorded sound; equally suited for beginner producers, session musicians and pro podcasters.
This one is the right call if you want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly. Driver stability can vary by operating system version, so check recent user reports for your specific OS before buying.
Key dimensions & specs
- Podcast, record, live stream - a powerful
- Convenient connectivity - 2 combo inputs
- Pro-grade quality - 24-bit/192khz audio resolution
Pros
- Podcast, record, live stream - a powerful
- Convenient connectivity - 2 combo inputs
- Pro-grade quality - 24-bit/192khz audio resolution
- Pro-grade audio without hassle - whether you're
Cons
- Driver stability can vary by operating system version
- Bundled software licenses vary and aren't always full versions
Runner-Up Pick5 of 8
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB-C Audio Interface on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB-C Audio Interface is a strong alternative worth comparing directly against the top pick.
Best for
- Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Why we like it
Pro performance with great pre-amps - achieve a brighter recording thanks to the high performing mic pre-amps of the scarlett 3rd gen. Get the well suited guitar and vocal take with - with two high-headroom instrument inputs to plug in your guitar or bass so that they shine through.
Studio quality recording for your music & podcasts - achieve pro sounding recordings with scarlett 3rd gen’s high-performance converters enabling you to record and mix at up to 24-bit/192khz, a detail worth checking closely before choosing between this and M-AUDIO M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface.
Choose this if you want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly. Bundled software licenses vary by retailer and aren't always the full paid version, so check the specific bundle before assuming you get everything advertised.
Key dimensions & specs
- Pro performance with great pre-amps
- Get the well suited guitar and vocal take
- Studio quality recording for your music
Pros
- Pro performance with great pre-amps
- Get the well suited guitar and vocal take
- Studio quality recording for your music
- Low-noise for crystal clear listening
Cons
- Bundled software licenses vary and aren't always full versions
- Driver stability can vary by operating system version
Worth a Look6 of 8
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB-C Audio Interface on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB-C Audio Interface is a strong alternative worth comparing directly against the top pick.
Best for
- Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Why we like it
The new generation of the songwriter's interface: plug in your mic and guitar and let scarlett solo 4th gen bring big studio sound to wherever you make music. With a huge 120db dynamic range, the newest generation of scarlett uses the same converters as focusrite’s flagship interfaces, found in the world's biggest studios.
M-AUDIO M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface covers similar ground, though scarlett 4th gen's improved air mode lifts vocals and guitars to the front of the mix, adding musical presence and rich harmonic drive to your recordings is what tips the choice one way or the other.
Choose this if you want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly. Driver stability can vary by operating system version, so check recent user reports for your specific OS before buying.
Key dimensions & specs
- The new generation of the songwriter's interface
- Studio-quality sound
- Find your signature sound
Pros
- The new generation of the songwriter's interface
- Studio-quality sound
- Find your signature sound
- All you need to record, mix
Cons
- Driver stability can vary by operating system version
- Bundled software licenses vary and aren't always full versions
Best Premium Pick7 of 8
M-AUDIO AIR 192x14 USB-C Audio Interface for Studio Recording with 8 In and 4 on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
M-AUDIO AIR 192x14 USB-C Audio Interface for Studio Recording with 8 In and 4 is the priciest pick in this lineup.
Best for
- Buyers who are willing to spend the most in this comparison for the fuller feature set that comes with it
Why we like it
Capture every detail - premium component selection and 24-bit/192khz resolution for professional recording and monitoring to your mac/ PC;. Low latency - hi-speed USB/ USB-C circuitry gives you the fastest connection, with a class-leading round trip latency of only 2.
Weighing this against M-AUDIO M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface, pristine studio grade capture - transparent crystal preamps and ultra-pristine ad converters for unsurpassed audio recording quality ends up being the detail that matters most for most buyers.
This one is the right call if you are willing to spend the most in this comparison for the fuller feature set that comes with it. Bundled software licenses vary by retailer and aren't always the full paid version, so check the specific bundle before assuming you get everything advertised.
Key dimensions & specs
- Capture every detail - premium component selection
- Low latency - hi-speed USB/ USB-C circuitry
- Pristine studio grade capture - transparent crystal
Pros
- Capture every detail - premium component selection
- Low latency - hi-speed USB/ USB-C circuitry
- Pristine studio grade capture - transparent crystal
- Connectivity - 4 XLR+¼ TRS combo inputs
Cons
- Bundled software licenses vary and aren't always full versions
- Driver stability can vary by operating system version
Also Worth Considering8 of 8
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB-C Audio Interface on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB-C Audio Interface is a strong alternative worth comparing directly against the top pick.
Best for
- Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Why we like it
The new generation of the artist's interface: connect your mic to scarlett's 4th gen mic pres. With a huge 120db dynamic range, the newest generation of scarlett uses the same converters as focusrite’s flagship interfaces, found in the world's biggest studios.
Never lose a great take: scarlett 4th gen's auto gain sets the well suited level for your mic or guitar, and clip safe prevents clipping, so you can focus on the music, a detail worth checking closely before choosing between this and M-AUDIO M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface.
This one is the right call if you want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly. Driver stability can vary by operating system version, so check recent user reports for your specific OS before buying.
Key dimensions & specs
- The new generation of the artist's interface
- Studio-quality sound
- Never lose a great take
Pros
- The new generation of the artist's interface
- Studio-quality sound
- Never lose a great take
- Find your signature sound
Cons
- Driver stability can vary by operating system version
- Bundled software licenses vary and aren't always full versions
How We Chose These M-Audio Audio Interfaces
Each pick was assessed across 5 criteria weighted for real-world use.
- Input Count vs Simultaneous Sources
- Input count should be set by your worst-case recording session, not your average one: it's the maximum number of separate sound sources you'll ever need running at the exact same time.
- Preamp Gain and Noise Floor
- A preamp boosts a microphone's naturally quiet signal to a usable recording level, and how much clean gain it provides before introducing audible hiss determines whether quieter microphones sound clear or noisy.
- Connection type affects real-world recording latency more than most buyers realize: USB now delivers latency low enough for real-time monitoring in the vast majority of home setups, while Thunderbolt's lower latency mainly pays off in larger multi-channel professional rigs.
- Bit Depth and Sample Rate
- Bit depth determines the dynamic range of your recording, with 24-bit now the professional standard and a meaningful step up from older 16-bit recording in headroom before clipping.
- Bus-Powered vs External Power Supply
- Whether an interface is bus-powered, drawing power from the USB connection alone, or requires a separate power adapter changes how portable and simple your setup actually is.
What to Look for in a M-Audio Audio Interface
Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.
Input Count vs Simultaneous Sources
Input count should be set by your worst-case recording session, not your average one: it's the maximum number of separate sound sources you'll ever need running at the exact same time. A single-input interface handles a solo vocalist fine, but an interview or duet needs two inputs simultaneously regardless of how often that happens.
Preamp Gain and Noise Floor
A preamp boosts a microphone's naturally quiet signal to a usable recording level, and how much clean gain it provides before introducing audible hiss determines whether quieter microphones sound clear or noisy. Interfaces with 55 to 60 DB of clean gain comfortably handle most dynamic and ribbon microphones without noticeable hiss. Check the specific gain figure in DB and cross-reference it against the microphone you actually plan to use.
Connection type affects real-world recording latency more than most buyers realize: USB now delivers latency low enough for real-time monitoring in the vast majority of home setups, while Thunderbolt's lower latency mainly pays off in larger multi-channel professional rigs. Check for a stated round-trip latency figure at a standard buffer size before assuming Thunderbolt is worth the added cost for your setup.
Bit Depth and Sample Rate
Bit depth determines the dynamic range of your recording, with 24-bit now the professional standard and a meaningful step up from older 16-bit recording in headroom before clipping. 1kHz to 192kHz, determines how many times per second audio is captured, with higher rates capturing more high-frequency detail but diminishing practical benefit for most home recording. Check that your interface supports at least 24-bit/48kHz.
Bus-Powered vs External Power Supply
Whether an interface is bus-powered, drawing power from the USB connection alone, or requires a separate power adapter changes how portable and simple your setup actually is. Compact 1-2 input models are usually bus-powered, while higher-channel-count interfaces more often need external power. Check the listing specifically rather than assuming a fully portable, single-cable setup.
How to Choose a M-Audio Audio Interface
| Solo vocalist or single instrument | M-AUDIO M-Track Solo USB Audio Interface |
|---|---|
| M-AUDIO M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface | |
| M-AUDIO AIR 192x14 USB-C Audio Interface for Studio Recording with 8 In and 4 |
| Lowest price in this lineup | M-AUDIO M-Track Solo USB Audio Interface |
|---|---|
| M-AUDIO M-Track Duo HD USB-C Audio Interface | |
| M-AUDIO AIR 192x14 USB-C Audio Interface for Studio Recording with 8 In and 4 |
- M-AUDIO M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface)
- Works on virtually any modern computer, often runs on bus power alone, plenty of speed for a small home setup at a lower price.
- Lower latency and higher bandwidth for larger channel counts, but costs more and needs a Thunderbolt port.
Most home studio and podcasting buyers should default to USB.
By Bit Depth and Sample Rate
| 24-bit standard, suitable for most home recording | M-AUDIO M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface |
|---|---|
| Verify your DAW's actual project settings first | Check your recording software is configured to match |
For Podcasting and Streaming Specifically
- Low-latency direct monitoring so you can hear your own voice without delay while recording or streaming live.
- M-AUDIO M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface is worth checking against its specific direct-monitoring spec before assuming any interface handles live monitoring equally well.
- You regularly record multiple sources at once and want the best all-around pick, where M-AUDIO AIR 192x14 USB-C Audio Interface for Studio Recording with 8 In and 4 justifies the extra cost.
- You're recording a single source, where M-AUDIO M-Track Solo USB Audio Interface already covers the job at the lowest price here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an audio interface if I already have a USB microphone?
No, a USB microphone already contains its own basic audio interface internally; a separate interface is only needed if you want to use an XLR microphone, record multiple sources at once, or want better preamp quality.
How many inputs do I actually need?
Count the maximum number of separate sound sources you'll realistically record in a single take, not your total microphone collection; a solo vocalist typically needs just one input, while an interview needs at least two.
Is Thunderbolt worth it over USB for a home studio?
Usually not for a 1-2 input home setup. USB now delivers latency low enough for real-time monitoring on most systems, and Thunderbolt's main advantage mostly matters for larger professional multi-channel setups.
What does 'bus-powered' mean on an audio interface?
It means the interface draws power directly from your computer's USB connection, so no separate power adapter is needed, simplifying setup, especially useful for a portable or minimal desk arrangement.
Do I need 24-bit or is 16-bit enough for recording?
24-bit is the current professional standard and gives meaningfully more headroom before clipping than 16-bit, and the vast majority of modern interfaces, including entry-level models, now support it by default.
Can I use an audio interface with my phone or tablet?
Some interfaces support mobile devices via USB-C, but check the specific listing for IOS or Android compatibility and power requirements, since not every USB interface is designed to draw power correctly from a mobile device.
Bottom Line
Best overall: M-AUDIO M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface — best overall pick in this roundup. See the full verdicts above for every pick, with pros, cons and who each one suits.
Browse all m-audio audio interfaces on Amazon — Prime-eligible options with current pricing.
