Buying Guide

The Best MIDI Audio Interfaces for a Cleaner, More Useful Desk

We looked at 8 MIDI 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

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Across best midi audio interfaces, range widely in real latency, given that differences show up in the fine print.

What separates these picks is true latency and bit-depth support, since this predicts real recording reliability.

Quick Picks

Our 8 recommendations at a glance. Tap a pick for the full verdict.

  1. Best Overall

    Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB-C 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 Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB-C Audio Interface (opens in a new tab)

  2. Best Premium Pick

    Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB-C Audio Interface

    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 Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB-C Audio Interface (opens in a new tab)

  3. Solid Alternative

    Mackie Audio Interface

    Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly

    Our take Check price for Mackie Audio Interface (opens in a new tab)

  4. Another Strong Option

    PreSonus AudioBox 96 25th Anniversary USB Audio Interface

    Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly

    Our take Check price for PreSonus AudioBox 96 25th Anniversary USB Audio Interface (opens in a new tab)

  5. Runner-Up Pick

    M-AUDIO M-Track Duo USB 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 USB Audio Interface (opens in a new tab)

  6. Worth a Look

    PIYONE Audio Interface

    Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly

    Our take Check price for PIYONE Audio Interface (opens in a new tab)

  7. Best Value

    Jolgoo 2x2 USB Audio Interface

    Buyers who want a capable pick without paying for headroom you won't use

    Our take Check price for Jolgoo 2x2 USB Audio Interface (opens in a new tab)

  8. Also Worth Considering

    Behringer U-PHORIA UMC404HD Audiophile 4x4

    Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly

    Our take Check price for Behringer U-PHORIA UMC404HD Audiophile 4x4 (opens in a new tab)

Our Picks

Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB-C Audio Interface

Best Overall1 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 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

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.

The gap between this and Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB-C Audio Interface isn't in the essentials, it shows up in 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.

Go with this pick 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

  • 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
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB-C Audio Interface

Best Premium Pick2 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 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

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.

Held up against Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB-C Audio Interface, both cover the basics equally well, what actually separates them is 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.

Go with this pick if you are willing to spend the most in this comparison for the fuller feature set that comes with it. 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
Mackie Audio Interface

Solid Alternative3 of 8

Mackie Audio Interface on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Mackie 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

High-resolution 2 in x 2 out 24-bit/192khz recording plus MIDI I/o with the musician collection of 23 plugins and instruments. Two boutique-quality onyx mic preamps with class-leading fidelity and dynamic range with 48v phantom power for use with studio condenser mics.

Held up against Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB-C Audio Interface, both cover the basics equally well, what actually separates them is XLR/TRS combo inputs accept mic, line and hi-z instrument level sources.

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

  • High-resolution 2 in x 2 out 24-bit/192khz
  • Two boutique-quality onyx mic preamps with class-leading
  • XLR/TRS combo inputs accept mic, line

Pros

  • High-resolution 2 in x 2 out 24-bit/192khz
  • Two boutique-quality onyx mic preamps with class-leading
  • XLR/TRS combo inputs accept mic, line
  • Zero-latency direct monitoring of analog inputs

Cons

  • Bundled software licenses vary and aren't always full versions
  • Driver stability can vary by operating system version
PreSonus AudioBox 96 25th Anniversary USB Audio Interface

Another Strong Option4 of 8

PreSonus AudioBox 96 25th Anniversary USB Audio Interface on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

PreSonus AudioBox 96 25th Anniversary USB 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

0 interface for personal and portable recording. 2 high-quality class-a mic preamps make it easy to get a great sound.

Side by side with Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB-C Audio Interface, the real difference worth noting is 2 high-headroom instrument inputs to record guitar, bass, and your favorite line-level devices, plus MIDI I/o.

Go with this pick 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

  • Value-packed 2-channel USB 2.0 interface for personal
  • 2 high-quality class-a mic preamps
  • 2 high-headroom instrument inputs to record guitar

Pros

  • Value-packed 2-channel USB 2.0 interface for personal
  • 2 high-quality class-a mic preamps
  • 2 high-headroom instrument inputs to record guitar
  • Studio-grade converters allow for up to 24-bit/96

Cons

  • Driver stability can vary by operating system version
  • Bundled software licenses vary and aren't always full versions
M-AUDIO M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface

Runner-Up Pick5 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 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, 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.

Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB-C Audio Interface lands in a similar spot overall, but the deciding factor between the two 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 one is the right call 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, 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
PIYONE Audio Interface

Worth a Look6 of 8

PIYONE Audio Interface on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

PIYONE 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

Piyone plug-and-play USB c audio interface.

Weighing this against Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB-C Audio Interface, elegant design with illuminated control ends up being the detail that matters most for most buyers.

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

  • Piyone plug-and-play USB c audio interface
  • Studio-grade 24-bit/192khz fidelity
  • Elegant design with illuminated control

Pros

  • Piyone plug-and-play USB c audio interface
  • Studio-grade 24-bit/192khz fidelity
  • Elegant design with illuminated control
  • Versatile 2 channel XLR USB interface

Cons

  • Driver stability can vary by operating system version
  • Bundled software licenses vary and aren't always full versions
Jolgoo 2x2 USB Audio Interface

Best Value7 of 8

Jolgoo 2x2 USB Audio Interface on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Jolgoo 2x2 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

Experience superior sound clarity with high-fidelity conversion. Connect anything from pro condenser mics to electric guitars.

Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB-C Audio Interface covers similar ground, though works out of the box with windows, macos, and ios/android devices is what tips the choice one way or the other.

This fits best if you want a capable pick without paying for headroom you won't use. 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

  • Experience superior sound clarity with high-fidelity conversion
  • Zero-latency direct monitoring
  • XLR/line combo inputs & +48v phantom

Pros

  • Experience superior sound clarity with high-fidelity conversion
  • Zero-latency direct monitoring
  • XLR/line combo inputs & +48v phantom
  • Seamless plug & play compatibility

Cons

  • Bundled software licenses vary and aren't always full versions
  • Driver stability can vary by operating system version
Behringer U-PHORIA UMC404HD Audiophile 4x4

Also Worth Considering8 of 8

Behringer U-PHORIA UMC404HD Audiophile 4x4 on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Behringer U-PHORIA UMC404HD Audiophile 4x4 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

0 audio/MIDI interface for recording microphones and instruments. Audiophile 24-bit/192 kHz resolution for professional audio quality.

Held up against Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB-C Audio Interface, both cover the basics equally well, what actually separates them is compatible with popular recording software including avid pro tools, ableton live, steinberg cubase, etc.

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

  • 4x4 USB 2.0 audio/MIDI interface for recording
  • Audiophile 24-bit/192 kHz resolution for professional audio
  • Compatible with popular recording software including avid

Pros

  • 4x4 USB 2.0 audio/MIDI interface for recording
  • Audiophile 24-bit/192 kHz resolution for professional audio
  • Compatible with popular recording software including avid
  • Streams 4 inputs / 4 outputs

Cons

  • Driver stability can vary by operating system version
  • Bundled software licenses vary and aren't always full versions

How We Chose These MIDI Audio Interfaces

Each pick was assessed across 5 criteria weighted for real-world use.

Input Count vs Simultaneous Sources
The number of inputs an interface has determines how many separate sound sources you can record at the exact same time, not how many you'll eventually use across different sessions.
Preamp Gain and Noise Floor
Clean preamp gain, typically quoted in DB, determines how much you can boost a quiet microphone signal before hiss becomes audible, and this varies more between interfaces than most buyers expect.
Latency is the delay between making a sound and hearing it played back, determined largely by connection type and driver quality rather than price alone.
Bit Depth and Sample Rate
24-bit recording is the current professional standard, giving meaningfully more headroom before clipping than older 16-bit audio, and the vast majority of modern interfaces, even entry-level ones, now support it by default.
Bus-Powered vs External Power Supply
Most compact 1-2 input interfaces draw power directly from your computer's USB port, meaning no separate power adapter is needed, which matters for portability and simpler desk setups.

What to Look for in an MIDI Audio Interface

Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.

  1. Input Count vs Simultaneous Sources

    The number of inputs an interface has determines how many separate sound sources you can record at the exact same time, not how many you'll eventually use across different sessions. A single-input interface works fine for a solo vocalist, but recording an interview or a duet requires at least two inputs running simultaneously. Count the maximum number of sources you'll realistically record in a single take, not your total gear collection.

  2. Preamp Gain and Noise Floor

    Clean preamp gain, typically quoted in DB, determines how much you can boost a quiet microphone signal before hiss becomes audible, and this varies more between interfaces than most buyers expect. A quiet dynamic microphone needs meaningfully more clean gain than a condenser mic does, so check the specific DB figure against the microphone you'll actually pair it with.

  3. Latency is the delay between making a sound and hearing it played back, determined largely by connection type and driver quality rather than price alone. USB interfaces now commonly achieve latency low enough for real-time monitoring on most systems, while Thunderbolt offers even lower latency but mainly matters for larger multi-channel professional setups rather than a 1-2 input home setup. Check for a stated round-trip latency figure rather than assuming connection type alone tells the story.

  4. Bit Depth and Sample Rate

    24-bit recording is the current professional standard, giving meaningfully more headroom before clipping than older 16-bit audio, and the vast majority of modern interfaces, even entry-level ones, now support it by default. 1kHz to 48kHz, so check for 24-bit support specifically rather than chasing the highest sample rate number.

  5. Bus-Powered vs External Power Supply

    Most compact 1-2 input interfaces draw power directly from your computer's USB port, meaning no separate power adapter is needed, which matters for portability and simpler desk setups. Interfaces with more inputs or higher power draw sometimes require an external power supply, adding a cable and a dependency worth knowing about. Check the listing specifically for 'bus-powered' language.

How to Choose an MIDI Audio Interface

Solo vocalist or single instrumentJolgoo 2x2 USB Audio Interface
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB-C Audio Interface
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB-C Audio Interface

Lowest price in this lineupJolgoo 2x2 USB Audio Interface
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB-C Audio Interface

Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB-C 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 recordingFocusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB-C Audio Interface
Verify your DAW's actual project settings firstCheck 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.
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB-C 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 Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen USB-C Audio Interface justifies the extra cost.
You're recording a single source, where Jolgoo 2x2 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: Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB-C 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 midi audio interfaces on Amazon — Prime-eligible options with current pricing.