Top 10 Best Audio Interfaces Under $400 (2025)
Choosing the right audio interface is crucial for anyone looking to enhance their music production, podcasting, or streaming experience. An audio interface serves as the bridge between your instruments and your computer, ensuring high-quality sound capture and playback. By investing in a good audio interface, you can significantly improve your audio quality, reduce latency, and streamline your workflow. This guide will help you find the best options available under $400, allowing you to make an informed decision that suits your needs.
Top Picks
- Best Overall: MOTU M2 2×2 USB-C Audio Interface – $199.95
- Best for Musicians: Apogee Boom USB Audio Interface – $249.00
- Best Value: PreSonus Quantum ES 2 – $249.99
- Best for Streaming: MOTU M4 4×4 USB-C Audio Interface – $269.95
- Best for Professionals: Universal Audio Volt 276 – $299.00
- Best for Beginners: Audient iD14 MKII – $295.00
- Best for MIDI: M-Audio AIR 192×14 – $329.00
- Best for Large Setups: Focusrite Scarlett 16i16 4th Gen – $369.99
- Best Rackmount Option: Tascam US-16×08 – $399.00
Selection Criteria
When selecting the best audio interfaces under $400, we considered several factors including sound quality, ease of use, connectivity options, and customer reviews. Each product was evaluated based on its performance in real-world scenarios, ensuring that you receive the best value for your investment.
MOTU M2 2×2 USB-C Audio Interface
The MOTU M2 is a fantastic audio interface that brings professional quality to your home studio without breaking the bank. With its sleek black design and compact size, it fits perfectly on any desk. This interface is equipped with ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology, which means you can expect crystal-clear audio with a dynamic range that rivals much pricier models. Whether you’re recording vocals, instruments, or doing live streaming, the M2 handles it all with ease. Plus, its low latency ensures that you can monitor your recordings in real-time without any annoying delays. If you’re looking for a reliable and high-quality audio interface, the MOTU M2 is definitely worth considering.
What People Say
Users rave about the MOTU M2’s audio quality and ease of use. Many have noted how it outperforms other interfaces in its price range, making it a favorite among both beginners and seasoned audio professionals.
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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 had me impressed. The DAC is actually pretty good! Not unjustly sibilant or colored, very impressive for a DAC, especially one that’s integrated into an audio interface! The pre-amp is very clean and low noise floor, making it great for studio use or streaming. If you want a tubey sounding solid state mic pre, this is actually a perfect fit.
– Wayne
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Before buying this audio interface, I had a Focusrite Scarlet 2i2, which failed after a week. The MOTU M2 is a great interface with stable drivers, extremely low latency, and much more gain with less noise. The construction is solid, and the ability to control phantom power for each channel is a game-changer. In this price range, it’s a fantastic purchase for anyone looking to record high-quality audio.
– Steven Molina
Why You’ll Love It
- Exceptional audio quality with ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology
- Low latency monitoring for real-time audio feedback
- Compact and sturdy design suitable for any workspace
- User-friendly interface with clear level meters
Ideal For Every Occasion
Perfect for home studios, podcasting, live streaming, and music production. Whether you’re recording a band or doing voiceovers, the M2 delivers reliable performance every time.
Current Price: $199.95
Rating: 4.5 (Total: 1317+)
Apogee Boom USB Audio Interface
The Apogee Boom is a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their audio recording experience without spending a fortune. This sleek and compact interface is perfect for musicians, podcasters, and streamers alike. With its impressive 24-bit/192kHz sample rate and built-in DSP, you can expect studio-quality sound that captures every detail of your recordings. Whether you’re tracking vocals, instruments, or doing live streams, the Boom makes it easy to achieve professional results. Plus, its user-friendly design means you can get started right away without any complicated setup. If you’re serious about your audio quality, the Apogee Boom is definitely worth checking out.
What People Say
Users are impressed with the Apogee Boom’s sound quality and ease of use. Many have highlighted how it outperforms other interfaces in its price range, making it a top choice for both beginners and experienced audio professionals.
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This review is about the sound quality of the converters and nothing else. I’m coming off a Roland Quad Capture, and I can tell you now, this device has helped my recordings sound more compelling. It keeps more of what I like to think of as the ‘soul’ in the sound. Overall, a more full and high-quality sound. I would still recommend this device to music producers based on sound alone.
– Jordy
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I purchased this interface to replace my current one, and I have to say I am blown away by how this interface sounds. The built-in DSP made all the difference and made my voice (and guitar) sound amazing. The headphone output is loud, really loud! All in all, I can only recommend this unit.
– Dan Austin
Why You’ll Love It
- Exceptional sound quality with premium AD/DA components
- Built-in DSP for real-time effects processing
- User-friendly design for quick setup and operation
- Compact and portable, perfect for on-the-go recording
Perfect For Every Occasion
Ideal for home studios, podcasting, live streaming, and music production. Whether you’re recording a band or doing voiceovers, the Boom delivers reliable performance every time.
Current Price: $249.00
Rating: 4.3 (Total: 33+)
PreSonus Quantum ES 2
The PreSonus Quantum ES 2 is designed for those who want to capture their creativity without breaking the bank. This compact audio interface offers a 24-bit/192 kHz resolution, ensuring that your recordings sound crisp and professional. With its two high-definition MAX-HD mic preamps and an Auto Gain feature, you can easily set the perfect levels for your microphones and instruments. Whether you’re a musician tracking vocals or a podcaster looking for clear audio, this interface has you covered. Plus, it comes with Studio One Pro software for six months, making it a fantastic value for anyone serious about audio production.
What People Say
Users rave about the Quantum ES 2’s sound quality and ease of use. Many have noted how it significantly improves their recording experience, making it a top choice for both beginners and seasoned professionals.
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I really like this interface. It’s sleek and modern and high performing. Plenty of inputs and outputs for home / small studio use. 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. Very flexible routing options, including routing different channels to each headphone jack.
– mBrane
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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. After doing a ton of research, this looks like it has the lowest latency and noise for the money.
– 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
- Includes six months of Studio One Pro software
Ideal For Every Occasion
Perfect for home studios, music production, podcasting, and live streaming. Whether you’re recording a full band or just your vocals, the Quantum ES 2 delivers reliable performance every time.
Current Price: $249.99
Rating: 4.4 (Total: 280+)
MOTU M4 4×4 USB-C Audio Interface
The MOTU M4 is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to elevate their audio game without spending a fortune. With its sleek design and robust build, this audio interface offers 24-bit/192 kHz audio quality, ensuring your recordings sound professional. It features four inputs and outputs, making it versatile for musicians, podcasters, and streamers alike. The standout feature is the full-color LCD screen that provides detailed level metering, which is a game-changer for achieving optimal sound levels. Whether you’re tracking vocals, instruments, or mixing for a podcast, the M4 has you covered. Plus, it comes with a suite of software to get you started right away, making it a great value for your investment.
What People Say
Users consistently praise the MOTU M4 for its sound quality and ease of use. Many have highlighted how it enhances their recording experience, making it a top pick for both beginners and seasoned pros.
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I upgraded from a Focusrite Scarlett to the MOTU M4, and the difference in audio quality is noticeable. The preamps are quieter and provide more gain, which is perfect for my monitoring headphones. The two line inputs on the back are a game-changer for my rhythm games, allowing for low-latency monitoring without the hassle of a mixer.
– Jonathan
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I replaced an interface that cost twice as much with the MOTU M4, and the improvement is clear. The installation was seamless on Windows 10, and the preamps are significantly better. I love that phantom power is channel-specific, which is great for using different types of mics. The overall build quality feels solid, and the features like loopback and zero-latency monitoring are incredibly useful.
– Mitchell Nelson
Why You’ll Love It
- Exceptional sound quality with 24-bit/192 kHz resolution
- Full-color LCD for precise level metering
- Low-latency monitoring for real-time audio feedback
- Versatile connectivity with multiple inputs and outputs
Perfect For Every Occasion
Ideal for home studios, music production, podcasting, and live streaming. Whether you’re recording a full band or just your vocals, the MOTU M4 delivers reliable performance every time.
Current Price: $269.95
Rating: 4.6 (Total: 785+)
Universal Audio Volt 276 USB Recording Studio Audio Interface
The Universal Audio Volt 276 is a standout audio interface that brings professional studio quality right to your home setup. With its sleek design and solid build, this 2-in/2-out USB interface is perfect for musicians, podcasters, and content creators alike. It features a built-in Vintage Mic Preamp mode and an analog compressor, allowing you to capture your sound with warmth and clarity. Whether you’re recording vocals, instruments, or streaming live, the Volt 276 ensures your audio is top-notch. Plus, it comes bundled with a suite of UAD plug-ins and a DAW, making it a fantastic value for anyone serious about their audio production.
What People Say
Users rave about the Volt 276 for its exceptional sound quality and ease of use. Many appreciate the vintage mic preamp and compressor features, which elevate their recordings to a professional level.
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Using this is a dream. One button press and I’m ready to record. The compressor is killer! It makes the vocals sound fuller and easier to understand, and it effectively works as a limiter too. I can get compression that’s extremely mild to pretty insane, depending on my needs. This device is stunningly well made, and I love how it looks on my desk.
– Mr Casio
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Very easy to use. Low latency and well built. Runs off USB power without any additional adapter. The sound quality is excellent, and I really enjoy the ‘vintage’ tone button. Highly recommended for anyone trying to get analog audio into your computer. I’m so glad I bought it!
– Montucky Resident
Why You’ll Love It
- Professional-grade audio quality with up to 24-bit/192 kHz resolution
- Built-in Vintage Mic Preamp mode for warm, analog sound
- Analog compressor for dynamic control and clarity
- Includes a suite of UAD plug-ins and DAW to kickstart your projects
Ideal For Every Occasion
Perfect for home studios, music production, podcasting, and live streaming. Whether you’re tracking a full band or just your vocals, the Volt 276 delivers reliable performance every time.
Current Price: $299.00
Rating: 4.6 (Total: 2021+)
Audient Audio Interface iD14 MKII
The Audient iD14 MKII is a fantastic audio interface that combines high-quality sound with user-friendly features. With its two Class-A microphone preamps, you can capture vocals and instruments with stunning clarity. The USB-C connection ensures fast and reliable performance, making it a great choice for both home studios and mobile setups. Whether you’re recording music, podcasts, or voiceovers, this interface delivers professional results without the complexity. Plus, its sleek design means it looks great on your desk, too.
What People Say
Users appreciate the iD14 MKII for its exceptional sound quality and ease of use. Many highlight the low latency and reliable performance, making it a favorite among musicians and podcasters alike.
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It has completely elevated my recording and audio production experience. With its two Class-A microphone preamps, it delivers pristine sound quality that captures every nuance of my recordings. The high-performance USB interface ensures low latency and reliable connectivity, allowing me to focus on my creativity without any technical interruptions.
– GG
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I’ve used quite a lot of different interfaces over the years, and I finally went back to digital interfaces and WOW! I have been blown away. I’ve been using this now for about a year and it just works. No scratchy POTS, and no buggy software. The audio loopback functionality is worth its weight in gold.
– Max Herman
Why You’ll Love It
- Two Class-A microphone preamps for high-quality sound capture
- USB-C connectivity for fast and reliable performance
- Low latency for seamless recording and monitoring
- Compact and durable design for easy portability
Perfect For Every Occasion
Ideal for home studios, music production, podcasting, and live streaming. Whether you’re tracking vocals or instruments, the iD14 MKII provides consistent performance and clarity.
Current Price: $295.00
Rating: 4.3 (Total: 952+)
Audient iD24 USB-C Audio Interface
The Audient iD24 is a remarkable audio interface that brings professional sound quality right to your home studio. With its two Class-A microphone preamps, you can expect crystal-clear recordings that truly capture the essence of your sound. The USB-C connection not only ensures speedy data transfer but also makes it super convenient for both desktop and mobile setups. Whether you’re laying down tracks for your next album or recording a podcast, this interface is designed to make your life easier while delivering top-notch audio quality. Plus, its sleek black design fits perfectly on any desk, adding a touch of style to your workspace.
What People Say
Users rave about the iD24 for its impressive sound clarity and build quality. Many appreciate its ease of use and the flexibility it offers for various recording setups, making it a go-to choice for both beginners and seasoned pros.
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This is a very well-made audio interface with super clear, real sound. After getting the iD24, I can confirm it transmits very clean, clear sound. The features are great, and the jacks are very solid. You can tell it’s not a cheap unit.
– Eric Griffith
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Great sound, easy and straightforward to use. I switched from a Universal Audio Apollo and found the iD24 to be at least equal in sound quality, with excellent build quality and nice physical controls.
– W. Smith
Why You’ll Love It
- Two Class-A Audient Console mic preamps for exceptional sound quality
- Class-leading AD/DA converters for clear audio playback
- Expandable with ADAT input/output for larger recording sessions
- User-friendly design with programmable monitor control
Ideal For Any Project
Perfect for music production, podcasting, and live streaming. Whether you’re recording vocals, instruments, or even using it as a headphone amp, the iD24 adapts to your needs effortlessly.
Current Price: $312.23
Rating: 4.4 (Total: 73+)
M-Audio AIR 192×14 – USB Audio Interface
The M-Audio AIR 192×14 is a fantastic audio interface that brings professional-grade recording capabilities right to your home studio. With 8 inputs and 4 outputs, plus MIDI connectivity, it’s perfect for musicians and podcasters alike. The USB-C connection ensures fast data transfer, making it easy to set up and use with your computer. Whether you’re recording vocals, instruments, or even a full band, this interface delivers clear, high-quality sound that captures every detail. Plus, it comes bundled with software like MPC Beats and Ableton Live Lite, giving you everything you need to start creating right away.
What People Say
Users love the M-Audio AIR 192×14 for its impressive sound quality and robust build. Many appreciate its ease of use and the flexibility it offers, making it a favorite among both beginners and experienced producers.
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The M-Audio AIR 192×14 is a solid unit that delivers clean recordings with zero noticeable latency. The build quality is excellent, and it’s easy to use, making it perfect for both beginners and those looking to upgrade their home studio setup.
– Locksmith Buyer
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This interface is amazing! It has plenty of inputs and outputs, and the sound quality is fantastic. The ASIO driver ensures very low latency, and it works seamlessly with my DAW. I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a reliable audio interface.
– Bark
Why You’ll Love It
- 8 XLR+¼ TRS combo inputs for versatile recording options
- Crystal preamps and ultra-pristine AD converters for top-notch audio quality
- Low latency performance with USB-C connectivity
- Includes software for music production to get you started right away
Perfect for Any Project
Ideal for music production, podcasting, and live streaming. Whether you’re recording vocals, instruments, or using it for MIDI gear, the AIR 192×14 adapts to your creative needs effortlessly.
Current Price: $329.00
Rating: 4.3 (Total: 1,945+)
Focusrite Scarlett 16i16 4th Gen USB Audio Interface
The Focusrite Scarlett 16i16 is a powerhouse audio interface designed for those who want to take their music production or podcasting to the next level. With 16 inputs and outputs, including two high-quality mic preamps, it’s perfect for capturing everything from vocals to instruments with stunning clarity. The USB-C connection ensures quick and reliable data transfer, making it a breeze to set up with your computer. Plus, it comes with a suite of software, including Pro Tools Intro and Ableton Live Lite, so you can start creating right out of the box. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this interface is a fantastic choice for your home studio.
What People Say
Users rave about the Focusrite Scarlett 16i16 for its impressive sound quality and robust build. Many appreciate its ease of use and the flexibility it offers, making it a favorite among both beginners and experienced producers.
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This Focusrite interface is just about perfect for what I do. It has independent power, which is a game changer, and the sound quality is top-notch. The setup was straightforward, and I love the Focusrite Control software. It makes managing my inputs and outputs a breeze.
– Tek Nickel
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Focusrite keeps upping the quality and capabilities of their interfaces, and the 16i16 is a great example. The dual air modes sound fantastic, and the mic interfaces are clean. Plus, the ability to do routing among the extra line ins and outs is perfect for a small studio setup.
– Chris W. Brown
Why You’ll Love It
- 16 inputs and outputs for maximum connectivity
- High-quality preamps with 69dB of gain for clear recordings
- Professional-grade 24-bit, 192kHz converters for superior audio quality
- Includes essential software to kickstart your music production journey
Ideal for Any Project
Perfect for music production, podcasting, and live streaming. Whether you’re recording vocals, instruments, or using it for MIDI gear, the Scarlett 16i16 adapts to your creative needs effortlessly.
Current Price: $369.99
Rating: 4.7 (Total: 2,774+)
Tascam US-16×08 Rackmount USB Audio/MIDI Interface
The Tascam US-16×08 is a versatile audio interface that’s perfect for anyone looking to elevate their recording game without breaking the bank. With 16 inputs, including 8 XLR and 8 line inputs, you can easily connect multiple microphones and instruments for a full-band recording session or podcast. Its USB 2.0 connection ensures reliable performance, and the built-in DSP mixer allows for low-latency monitoring, making it a great choice for both studio and live settings. Whether you’re tracking drums, recording vocals, or mixing a podcast, this interface has you covered. Plus, it’s easy to set up and use, making it a fantastic option for beginners and pros alike.
What People Say
Users appreciate the Tascam US-16×08 for its robust build and excellent sound quality. Many find it especially useful for recording multiple instruments or vocals simultaneously, making it a go-to choice for home studios and live setups.
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I bought this five years ago so it has held up very well. If you’re just starting out and don’t know anything about audio interfaces and DAWs you might feel overwhelmed at first as I did, but it didn’t take long to get running using the basic features. The connections are pretty convenient with 8 XLR and 2 line/instrument inputs on the front as well as a headphone output. There are 6 more line inputs on the back and 8 line outs. Highly recommended.
– Will
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After installing the software and rebooting, the interface synched up correctly, plays all my audio files, runs correctly in Sonar X2 and the MIDI is faster than ever. I read several customer reviews before purchasing, and I went ahead and bought the thing. It is $270 right now and is the only affordable interface with 16 inputs.
– melanie grim
Why You’ll Love It
- 16 inputs for maximum recording flexibility
- Eight Ultra-HDDA microphone preamps for clean sound
- Built-in DSP mixer for low-latency monitoring
- Easy setup and compatibility with major DAWs
Perfect for Any Recording Scenario
Ideal for recording bands, podcasts, or any project requiring multiple inputs. Whether you’re in a studio or on stage, this interface adapts to your needs, ensuring you capture every sound perfectly.
Current Price: $399.00
Rating: 4.4 (Total: 583+)
FAQ
What Should I Consider When Buying an Audio Interface Under $400?
When you’re looking for an audio interface under $400, you should consider your specific needs first. Think about how many inputs and outputs you’ll need. If you’re recording multiple instruments or vocals simultaneously, look for interfaces with more channels. Also, pay attention to the type of preamps and converters, as these significantly affect sound quality. Latency is another crucial factor; you want an interface that offers low latency for real-time monitoring. Lastly, check for compatibility with your operating system and any software you plan to use.
How Do I Set Up My Audio Interface for Recording?
Setting up your audio interface is usually straightforward. Start by connecting it to your computer using the provided USB cable. Install any necessary drivers or software that come with the interface, as this ensures optimal performance. Once connected, open your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) and select the audio interface as your input and output device. Make sure to configure your audio settings in the DAW for the best sample rate and buffer size. Finally, connect your microphones or instruments to the interface, and you should be ready to start recording.
What Are the Benefits of Using an Audio Interface Instead of a USB Microphone?
Using an audio interface offers several advantages over a USB microphone. First, audio interfaces typically provide higher sound quality due to better preamps and converters, which can capture more detail in your recordings. They also allow you to connect multiple microphones and instruments, giving you more flexibility in your recording setup. Additionally, interfaces often come with features like direct monitoring, which lets you hear your input signal without latency. This is especially useful for musicians and podcasters who need to monitor their sound in real-time.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, investing in a quality audio interface can greatly enhance your audio production experience. The options listed above provide a range of features and prices to suit different needs, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned professional. By choosing one of these top picks, you can ensure that you are getting a reliable and high-quality audio interface that will serve you well in your creative endeavors.
