Top 10 Best Audio Interfaces For Mac (M1 to M4) 2025

Choosing the right audio interface is crucial for anyone looking to enhance their recording quality on a Mac. Whether you are a musician, podcaster, or content creator, having a reliable audio interface can significantly improve your sound quality and overall production experience. With the right audio interface, you can achieve professional-grade recordings, making your projects sound polished and engaging. This guide will help you navigate the top options available for your M1 to M4 mac in 2025, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your needs.

Best Audio Interface For Mac – Top Picks

• Best Overall: IK Multimedia iRig Pre HD – $79.99
• Best Value: M-Audio M-Track Duo – $69.00
• Best for Beginners: Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen – $99.99
• Best for Professionals: Universal Audio Apollo Solo Heritage Edition – $499.00
• Best for Portability: Apogee Duet 3 – $649.00
• Best for MIDI: PreSonus Studio 24c – $129.99
• Best for Streaming: Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD – $139.00
• Best for High-Resolution Audio: MOTU M2 – $199.95
• Best for Advanced Features: Solid State Logic SSL 2 MKII – $229.99
• Best for Low Latency: PreSonus Quantum ES 2 – $249.99

Selection Criteria

When selecting the best audio interfaces for Mac, we considered factors such as sound quality, ease of use, compatibility with Mac systems, price, and mac user reviews. Each product was evaluated based on its features, performance, and overall value to ensure you have the best options available.

IK Multimedia iRig Pre HD

The IK Multimedia iRig Pre HD is a versatile audio interface designed for Mac users who want to elevate their recording game. This compact device allows you to connect any microphone to your iPhone, iPad, Android device, or Mac/PC, delivering studio-quality sound with its Class-A mic preamp and +48V phantom power. Whether you’re podcasting, live streaming, or recording music, the iRig Pre HD makes it easy to achieve professional results. Plus, with a 24-bit, 96 kHz audio interface, you can be confident that your recordings will sound crisp and clear. It’s a great choice for both everyday use and special projects, and I think you’ll find it to be a reliable companion for all your audio needs.

What People Say

Users rave about the iRig Pre HD’s ability to deliver professional sound quality in a portable package. Many appreciate its ease of use and versatility across different devices.

• Cleanly connects microphone cable to our Android phone to provide sound for webcasting. Works well and like the adjustments it provides (and using AA batteries instead of 9V).– bitnerd
• Many things to like, good sound quality input and output, allows high quality microphone connection to phone (iPhone), tablet (iPad) or laptop (Macbook Pro or Macbook Air). Overall great product using it regularly for recording, zoom/teams etc on the go.

Why You’ll Love It

• Connects any microphone to your mobile device
• High-quality digital music projects
• Direct monitoring with headphones
• Compatible with various apps

Ideal For Every Occasion

Perfect for musicians, podcasters, and anyone needing high quality audio on the go. Whether you’re recording at home or capturing live events, this interface has you covered.

Current Price: $79.99

Rating: 4.4 (Total: 1,037+)

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M-Audio M-Track Duo

The M-Audio M-Track Duo is a fantastic audio interface designed specifically for Mac users who want to take their recording, streaming, or podcasting to the next level. This compact device features dual XLR inputs, allowing you to connect microphones, instruments, or line-level devices with ease. With a 48 kHz audio resolution, you can expect crystal-clear sound quality that makes your recordings shine. Whether you’re working on a new music project or setting up for a live stream, the M-Track Duo is a reliable choice that fits right into your workflow. Plus, it comes with a software suite to help you get started right away, making it a great pick for both everyday use and special occasions.

What People Say

Users appreciate the M-Track Duo for its clean sound quality and ease of use. Many have highlighted its versatility in connecting various audio sources, making it a favorite among musicians and podcasters alike.

• The M-Audio M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface fit my needs perfectly. I searched for a while between this dual channel model and the FocusRite Scarlett solo channel, which cost around $30 more. This M-Audio pairs up with my self-designed lapsteel guitar and runs through a bunch of mid-priced pedals. The signal is quiet and clean throughout the whole hardware/software interface.– Jumpingjackjim
• The unit works well to digitize sound that can be limited by DIY recorders like phones or computer inputs. I recorded 20 songs for copyright with very good clarity and response. The M-Audio matches quite well with higher-priced items, and I found it to be a great value for the price.– J. Holland

Why You’ll Love It

• Dual XLR inputs for versatile recording options
• Compact and portable design for on-the-go use
• Zero-latency monitoring for real-time audio feedback
• Includes a software suite to kickstart your projects

Perfect For Every Occasion

Ideal for musicians, podcasters, and anyone looking to record high-quality audio at home or on the go. Whether you’re capturing vocals, instruments, or live performances, this interface is up to the task.

Current Price: $69.00

Rating: 4.4 (Total: 13,665+)

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Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is a top-notch audio interface that’s perfect for Mac users looking to elevate their recording game. This compact device is designed for guitarists, vocalists, podcasters, and producers alike, providing studio-quality sound in a user-friendly package. With its high-performance 24-bit/192kHz AD-DA converters, you can expect crystal-clear audio that captures every nuance of your performance. Whether you’re recording a solo track at home or setting up for a podcast, the Scarlett Solo makes it easy to get professional results. Plus, it comes with a fantastic software bundle to get you started right away, making it a great choice for both everyday use and special projects.

What People Say

Users rave about the Scarlett Solo for its exceptional sound quality and ease of use. Many appreciate its versatility in handling various audio sources, making it a favorite among musicians and podcasters alike.

• I started taking vocal lessons recently and bought a kind of cheapo mic from a store in town. After a software update messed up my mic settings, I decided to invest in the Scarlett Solo. The setup was straightforward, and the sound quality is fantastic. No more weird voice effects, just clear audio for my lessons. Plus, the customer service was super helpful when I had questions.– JL
• This audio interface works extremely well. It handles output and input seamlessly, which has been a game changer for my setup. I love how configurable it is, allowing me to create custom setups for different recording scenarios. The sound quality is top-notch, and it even works well on Linux, which is a bonus for me.– Daniel

Why You’ll Love It

• High-performance mic preamps for brighter recordings
• Easy setup with included software for quick start
• Compact design perfect for home studios or on-the-go recording
• Low-noise balanced outputs for pristine audio playback

Perfect For Every Occasion

Ideal for musicians, podcasters, and anyone looking to record high-quality audio at home or on the go. Whether you’re capturing vocals, instruments, or live performances, this interface is up to the task.

Current Price: $99.99

Rating: 4.6 (Total: 50,523+)

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Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD USB Audio Interface

The Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD is a fantastic audio interface for Mac users who want to take their recording to the next level. This compact yet powerful device is perfect for musicians, podcasters, and anyone looking to capture high-quality audio. With its four MIDAS-designed mic preamps and 24-bit/192 kHz converters, you can expect studio-quality sound that brings your recordings to life. Whether you’re laying down tracks at home or setting up for a live gig, the UMC404HD makes it easy to connect your microphones, instruments, and MIDI devices. It’s a reliable choice that won’t break the bank, making it a great addition to your audio toolkit.

What People Say

Users are impressed with the UMC404HD’s sound quality and versatility. Many appreciate its ability to handle multiple inputs and outputs, making it a favorite among musicians and podcasters alike.

• I’ve been using the UMC404HD for a while now, and it’s been a game changer for my home studio. The sound quality is impressive, and I love the flexibility of having four inputs. It works seamlessly with my Mac, and I can easily switch between different setups for recording vocals and instruments. Highly recommend it for anyone serious about audio production.– Christopher Ravard
• This interface has exceeded my expectations. The clarity of the audio signals is fantastic, and the multiple outputs make using external effects a breeze. It works perfectly with my DAWs, and I appreciate how easy it is to set up. For the price, you really can’t beat the performance of the UMC404HD.– G

Why You’ll Love It

• Four MIDAS-designed mic preamps for superior sound quality
• 24-bit/192 kHz converters for professional audio fidelity
• Easy USB connectivity for quick setup with Mac
• Versatile input options for various recording scenarios

Ideal For Every Recording Situation

Perfect for recording vocals, instruments, or podcasts at home or on the go. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, this interface is designed to meet your audio needs effortlessly.

Current Price: $139.00

Rating: 4.4 (Total: 1,964+)

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PreSonus Studio 24c 2×2, 192 kHz, USB Audio Interface

The PreSonus Studio 24c is a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their audio recording experience on a Mac. This compact audio interface packs a punch with its two XMAX-L mic preamps and 24-bit/192 kHz recording capabilities, ensuring that your sound is crisp and clear. Whether you’re recording music, podcasts, or voiceovers, the Studio 24c makes it easy to connect your gear and start creating. Plus, it comes with Studio One Artist and Ableton Live Lite, so you can dive right into your projects without any hassle. It’s a reliable companion for both beginners and seasoned pros alike.

What People Say

Users rave about the Studio 24c’s sound quality and ease of use. Many appreciate its ability to handle both audio and MIDI, making it a versatile tool for musicians and podcasters alike.

• Got this interface for my digital piano setup. Connected my piano via USB to MacBook, then MacBook to Studio 24c via USB-C. The Studio 24c handles both audio and MIDI perfectly. Direct monitoring lets me play without latency, and the build quality is sturdy with metal construction. Using this with Pianoteq 8.4 significantly improved my piano’s sound quality compared to direct headphone output. Good value for home piano enthusiasts looking to upgrade their audio chain.– Antonio
• After reading reviews of several audio interface devices, I chose the PreSonus 24c mostly for its two input channels and the included software. It was easy to set up, and I was able to make basic recordings quickly. I’m using the unit to record electric and acoustic guitar playing and a little vocals for my own use. No issues so far and would recommend.– RCI

Why You’ll Love It

• Two XMAX-L mic preamps for high-quality sound capture
• 24-bit/192 kHz recording for professional audio fidelity
• USB-C connectivity for easy setup with Mac
• In/Out Midi interface
• Includes Studio One Artist and Ableton Live Lite for instant recording

Perfect for Every Recording Scenario

Ideal for recording music, podcasts, or voiceovers at home or on the go. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, this interface is designed to meet your audio needs effortlessly.

Current Price: $129.99

Rating: 4.5 (Total: 2,883+)

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MOTU M2 2×2 USB-C Audio Interface

The MOTU M2 is a fantastic audio interface for Mac users looking to elevate their recording game. With its two inputs and high-quality ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology, you can expect stunning audio clarity and a dynamic range that rivals much pricier options. Whether you’re recording music, podcasts, or voiceovers, the M2 makes it easy to connect your gear and start creating. Plus, the full-color LCD metering provides real-time feedback, ensuring you get the levels just right. It’s a reliable choice for both beginners and seasoned pros who want great sound without breaking the bank.

What People Say

Users rave about the MOTU M2’s sound quality and ease of use. Many appreciate its low latency and the warm tone it brings to recordings, making it a favorite among musicians and podcasters alike.

• I’ve been an audiophile for over five years and stepped up the costly ladder of ‘the audio experience’ spending thousands on equipment. The MOTU M2 impressed me with its clean sound and low noise floor. The preamp has a warm, tube-like tonality that enhances the quality of my recordings, making it a perfect fit for my condenser mic. The headphone output is powerful enough to drive my high-impedance headphones without any issues.– Wayne
• Before buying the MOTU M2, I had a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2, which failed after a week. The M2 has stable drivers and extremely low latency, making it a great upgrade. The build quality feels solid, and I love the separate phantom power for each channel. It’s perfect for recording high-quality podcasts or music, and I’m really impressed with the sound quality it delivers.– Steven Molina

Why You’ll Love It

• Exceptional audio quality with ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology
• Ultra-low latency for real-time monitoring
• Full-color LCD metering for precise level control
• Robust build quality for durability and reliability

Ideal for Every Recording Scenario

Perfect for recording music, podcasts, or voiceovers at home or in a studio setting. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, the M2 is designed to meet your audio needs effortlessly.

Current Price: $199.95

Rating: 4.5 (Total: 1,317+)

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Solid State Logic SSL 2 MKII 2 x 2 USB Audio Interface

The Solid State Logic SSL 2 MKII is a game-changer for anyone using audio interfaces for Mac. With its dual XLR mic preamps and next-gen converters, you can expect studio-quality sound that truly elevates your recordings. Whether you’re a musician, podcaster, or just someone who loves to create, this interface makes it easy to connect your gear and get started. The 4K analogue enhancement feature adds a nice touch, giving your audio that extra warmth and character. Plus, it’s bus-powered, so you can take it anywhere without worrying about finding an outlet. If you’re looking for a reliable and high-quality audio interface, the SSL 2 MKII is definitely worth considering.

What People Say

Users rave about the SSL 2 MKII’s audio clarity and ease of use. Many appreciate its warm sound and robust build, making it a favorite among both beginners and seasoned professionals in the audio world.

• Absolutely amazed at how clear and crisp the sound is with this awesome interface. If you are looking for studio quality sound, I would highly recommend.– KWB
• The sound quality of this unit compared to my old interface is stunning. I always thought that my monitor speakers were the problem, but now I can hear my mixes. This is the best upgrade I’ve ever purchased.– Mark A. Nordeen

Why You’ll Love It

• Studio-quality sound with dual XLR mic preamps
• Next-gen converters for exceptional audio clarity
• 4K analogue enhancement for added warmth
• Bus-powered for portability and convenience

Perfect for Every Recording Scenario

Ideal for recording music, podcasts, or voiceovers at home or on the go. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, the SSL 2 MKII is designed to meet your audio needs effortlessly.

Current Price: $229.99

Rating: 4.6 (Total: 18+)

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PreSonus Quantum ES 2 2 x 2 USB-C Audio Interface

The PreSonus Quantum ES 2 is a fantastic choice for anyone diving into the world of audio interfaces for Mac. With its sleek design and high-performance features, this interface is perfect for musicians and audio creators alike. It boasts two high-definition MAX-HD mic preamps with +75 dB of gain, making it ideal for capturing vocals and instruments with clarity. Plus, the Auto Gain feature takes the guesswork out of setting levels, ensuring you get the best sound every time. Whether you’re recording at home or in a studio, this interface is designed to help you unleash your creativity effortlessly.

What People Say

Users appreciate the Quantum ES 2 for its impressive sound quality and ease of use. Many have noted the significant improvement in their recordings compared to older interfaces, making it a popular choice among both beginners and seasoned professionals.

• I really like this interface. It’s sleek and modern and high performing. The pre-amps are dynamite and the auto-gain function is nice for quickly setting up an input channel! Incredibly low-latency drivers on Windows 11.– mBrane
• Big improvement over my old M-Audio Duo Track from a sound quality and latency perspective. Well built, looks great, very sleek. Easy to set up and works well with Logic Pro.– Datriani

Why You’ll Love It

• High-definition MAX-HD mic preamps for superior sound quality
• Auto Gain feature for hassle-free setup
• Low-latency drivers for seamless recording
• Compatible with popular DAWs like Logic Pro and Studio One

Ideal for Any Recording Environment

Perfect for recording music, podcasts, or voiceovers, the Quantum ES 2 adapts to your needs whether you’re in a home studio or on the go. Its user-friendly features make it accessible for everyone, from hobbyists to serious audio engineers.

Current Price: $249.99

Rating: 4.4 (Total: 280+)

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Universal Audio Apollo Solo Heritage Edition, APLS-HE

The Universal Audio Apollo Solo Heritage Edition is a standout in the best audio interface for Mac category. This compact yet powerful device is perfect for musicians and podcasters looking to elevate their sound quality. With its two Unison mic preamps and class-leading audio conversion, you can expect studio-quality recordings right from your home. Plus, it comes bundled with a suite of award-winning UAD plug-ins worth over $1,300, making it a fantastic value. Whether you’re tracking vocals or instruments, this interface is designed to help you achieve professional results effortlessly.

What People Say

Users rave about the Apollo Solo for its exceptional sound quality and the value of the included plug-ins. Many have noted how it significantly enhances their recordings, making it a favorite among both beginners and experienced audio professionals.

• Best thing I could have gotten to kick my vocal recordings up in quality. The DSP plug-ins included smoke the Waves versions I have in my opinion. If you’re serious about your recording sound, get one.– William L Esposito

Why You’ll Love It

• Premium suite of 5 award-winning plug-in titles included
• UAD SOLO Core Processing for near-zero latency tracking
• Unison mic preamp technology for authentic vintage sounds
• Compatible with major DAWs like Logic Pro and Pro Tools

Perfect for Any Recording Scenario

Whether you’re recording music, podcasts, or voiceovers, the Apollo Solo is versatile enough to meet your needs. Its compact design makes it easy to transport, so you can take your studio on the go. Plus, the user-friendly interface ensures that you can focus on your creativity without getting bogged down by complicated setups.

Current Price: $398.40

Rating: 4.2 (Total: 319+)

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Apogee Duet 3

The Apogee Duet 3 is a fantastic choice among audio interfaces for Mac, especially if you’re looking to elevate your recording game. This sleek and compact device is perfect for musicians, podcasters, and anyone who wants to capture high-quality audio. With its two channels and world-class preamps, you can easily record vocals, guitars, and keyboards with stunning clarity. Plus, it features hardware DSP for real-time processing, which means you can apply effects without any noticeable latency. Whether you’re in your home studio or on the go, the Duet 3 is designed to deliver professional results effortlessly.

What People Say

Users appreciate the Duet 3 for its exceptional sound quality and ease of use. Many have highlighted how it enhances their recordings, making it a go-to choice for both beginners and seasoned professionals.

• Amazing product – design, sound, materials, Logic integration, you can tell this is a high quality product. Amazing customer service – After getting my Duet 3 I noticed a small issue. I called customer service and they solved my problem in a professional, friendly, and super fast way. Probably the best customer service experience I’ve ever had.– JIV

Why You’ll Love It

• Legendary sound quality for all recording needs
• Ultra-compact design for portability
• World-class preamps with up to 65dB gain
• Compatible with macOS, Windows, and iOS devices

Ideal for Any Recording Situation

Whether you’re recording music, streaming, or podcasting, the Duet 3 is versatile enough to handle it all. Its compact size makes it easy to take with you, and the intuitive interface allows you to focus on your creativity without getting lost in complicated setups.

Current Price: $649.00

Rating: 4.2 (Total: 76+)

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FAQ

What Should I Consider When Choosing Audio Interfaces for Mac?

When selecting a good audio interface for your Mac, you should consider factors like the number of inputs and outputs you need, the quality of the preamps, and the overall sound resolution. Look for interfaces that support at least 24-bit/96 kHz audio for better sound quality. Also, ensure compatibility with your recording software and check for features like direct monitoring, which allows you to hear your input signal without latency. Don’t forget to consider your budget, as prices can vary significantly based on features and brand reputation.

How Do I Set Up My Audio Interface with My Mac?

Setting up your audio interface with your Mac is usually straightforward. Start by connecting the interface to your Mac using the provided USB interface or Thunderbolt cable – This really depends if it’s a USB or Thunderbolt audio interface. Once connected, your Mac should recognize the device automatically. You may need to install drivers or software that comes with the interface, so check the manufacturer’s website for the latest updates. After installation, go to your audio settings in your DAW or system preferences to select the interface as your input and output device. This ensures that your recordings and playback are routed through the interface.

What Are Common Issues I Might Encounter with Audio Interfaces for Mac?

Common issues with audio interfaces on Mac include connectivity problems, latency during recording, and software compatibility. If your interface isn’t recognized, try using a different USB port or cable. Latency can often be reduced by adjusting buffer settings in your DAW; lower buffer sizes can help, but may require a more powerful computer. If you experience software compatibility issues, ensure that your DAW is updated and check for any specific requirements from the interface manufacturer. Lastly, always keep your operating system and drivers up to date to avoid potential conflicts.

Wrapping Up

Investing in a quality audio interface can elevate your recording experience on a Mac, whether you’re looking at recording guitar, vocals, drums, bass, etc. The best audio interfaces for mac options listed above cater to various needs, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned professional. By choosing the right audio interface, you can ensure that your recordings are clear, professional, and ready for distribution.