Top 10 Best Audio Interfaces Under $600 (2025)

Choosing the right audio interface is crucial for anyone looking to produce high-quality recordings, whether you’re a musician, podcaster, or content creator. An audio interface serves as the bridge between your instruments and your computer, ensuring that the sound you capture is as clear and professional as possible. Investing in a good audio interface can significantly enhance your recording quality, making your projects sound more polished and engaging. In this article, you’ll discover the top 10 audio interfaces under $600 that can elevate your audio production experience.

Top Picks

• Best Overall: MOTU M4 4×4 USB-C Audio Interface – $269.95
• Best Value: Universal Audio Volt 276 USB Recording Studio Audio Interface – $299.00
• Best for Beginners: M-Audio AIR 192×14 – USB Audio Interface – $329.00
• Best for Large Setups: Focusrite Scarlett 16i16 4th Gen USB Audio Interface – $369.99
• Best for Podcasting: MOTU M6 6×4 USB-C Audio Interface – $399.95
• Best for High-End Sound: Universal Audio Apollo Solo USB Heritage Edition – $499.00
• Best for Expansion: Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre Mic Preamp – $499.99
• Best for Portability: Roland UA-1010 OCTA-CAPTURE 10-input, 10-output Hi-speed USB Audio Interface – $544.77
• Best for Quality Sound: Black Lion Audio Revolution 6×6 USB Audio Interface – $549.00
• Best for Versatility: Audient EVO 16 USB Audio Interface – $579.99

How We Selected the Best Audio Interfaces

When selecting the best audio interfaces under $600, we considered factors such as sound quality, ease of use, connectivity options, and customer reviews. Each of these interfaces has been chosen based on their ability to deliver professional-grade audio performance while remaining accessible to a wide range of users.

MOTU M4 4×4 USB-C Audio Interface

The MOTU M4 is a fantastic audio interface that strikes a perfect balance between quality and affordability. With its sleek black design, it’s not just a pretty face; this device packs a punch with its impressive sound quality and user-friendly features. Whether you’re a musician looking to record your next hit or a podcaster aiming for crystal-clear audio, the M4 has got you covered. It’s equipped with four inputs and outputs, making it versatile enough for various setups. Plus, the low latency ensures that you can monitor your recordings in real-time without any annoying delays. If you’re serious about your audio, this interface is a solid choice that won’t break the bank.

What People Say

Users rave about the MOTU M4’s sound clarity and ease of use. Many appreciate how it integrates seamlessly with their recording setups, making it a favorite among both beginners and seasoned pros.

• Purchased this in 2021 and have not been disappointed yet. This interface delivers exceptional sound quality, user-friendly functionality, and a robust build. It’s an excellent choice for musicians and producers who demand high-quality audio at an affordable price.

  – Brandon

• Upgraded from a Focusrite Scarlett to the Motu M4 for a couple of reasons. The main feature I was interested in with this upgrade are the two line in inputs on the back. This leads to why I was interested in the Motu M4. The back 3 and 4 inputs are line inputs, which can be directly monitored with practically no latency.

  – Jonathan

Why You’ll Love It

• Exceptional sound quality
• User-friendly design
• Low latency monitoring
• Versatile input options

Perfect For Any Occasion

Whether you’re recording music, streaming live, or producing podcasts, the MOTU M4 adapts to your needs effortlessly. Its multiple inputs allow for various instruments or microphones, making it perfect for collaborative projects or solo sessions.

Current Price: $269.95

Rating: 4.6 (Total: 785+)

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Universal Audio Volt 276 USB Recording Studio Audio Interface

The Universal Audio Volt 276 is a game-changer for anyone serious about audio recording. With its sleek design and impressive features, this interface is perfect for musicians, podcasters, and content creators alike. It offers a high-quality 2-in/2-out USB setup, allowing you to capture your sound with professional-grade clarity. The built-in vintage mic preamp mode adds a warm touch to your recordings, making them sound rich and inviting. Plus, the analog compressor is a fantastic tool for achieving that polished sound without needing extensive post-production work. If you’re looking to elevate your audio game, the Volt 276 is a solid investment that delivers exceptional performance.

What People Say

Users appreciate the Volt 276 for its exceptional sound quality and ease of use. Many find the vintage mic preamp mode a standout feature, adding warmth to their recordings that rivals more expensive setups.

• 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. This means I can get extra loud or quiet with my voice without worrying about editing later. It’s fantastic for my needs and works far better than other interfaces I’ve tried.

  – Mr Casio

• 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.

  – Montucky Resident

Why You’ll Love It

• High-quality sound capture
• Built-in vintage mic preamp mode
• Analog compressor for polished audio
• User-friendly setup

Perfect For Any Occasion

Whether you’re recording music, streaming, or podcasting, the Volt 276 adapts to your needs effortlessly. Its versatile inputs make it perfect for capturing multiple sources, whether you’re working solo or collaborating with others.

Current Price: $299.00

Rating: 4.6 (Total: 2021+)

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M-Audio AIR 192×14 – USB Audio Interface

The M-Audio AIR 192×14 is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to elevate their audio recording experience without breaking the bank. With its sleek design and robust features, this interface is perfect for musicians, podcasters, and content creators. It boasts 8 inputs and 4 outputs, allowing you to connect multiple instruments and microphones simultaneously. The crystal preamps ensure that your recordings are clear and professional, while the MIDI connectivity lets you integrate your synths and other gear seamlessly. If you’re serious about your sound, the AIR 192×14 is a reliable companion that delivers quality and versatility.

What People Say

Users rave about the M-Audio AIR 192×14 for its impressive sound quality and versatility. Many appreciate how easy it is to connect various instruments and microphones, making it a favorite among both beginners and seasoned pros.

• The M-Audio AIR 192×14 has been a game-changer for my home studio. The sound quality is crystal clear, and I love the low latency performance. It handles my Sennheiser HD 800s effortlessly, and the mic preamps are top-notch. I can easily connect my guitar, synths, and even my turntable without any hassle. It’s versatile and has made my recording sessions so much smoother.

  – James Langston

• This interface is incredibly well-built and sturdy. The control knobs feel solid, and the sound quality is amazing. The ASIO driver ensures low latency, which is crucial for my recording needs. Plus, the multiple inputs and outputs give me the flexibility I need for my setup. I highly recommend it for anyone looking to upgrade their audio gear.

  – Locksmith Buyer

Why You’ll Love It

• Exceptional sound quality with crystal preamps
• Low latency performance for seamless recording
• Versatile connectivity options for multiple instruments
• Sturdy build quality for long-lasting use

Perfect For Any Occasion

Whether you’re recording music, streaming, or podcasting, the AIR 192×14 adapts to your needs effortlessly. Its multiple inputs and outputs make it perfect for capturing everything from solo performances to full band recordings.

Current Price: $329.00

Rating: 4.3 (Total: 1945+)

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Focusrite Scarlett 16i16 4th Gen USB Audio Interface

The Focusrite Scarlett 16i16 is a standout option for anyone looking to enhance their audio recording setup without overspending. With its striking red design and robust features, this interface is perfect for musicians, podcasters, and anyone who needs high-quality audio. It offers 16 inputs and 16 outputs, including two mic preamps, making it incredibly versatile for recording multiple instruments or vocals simultaneously. The 4th Gen preamps provide an impressive 69dB of gain, ensuring that your recordings are clear and professional. Plus, it comes with a suite of software to get you started right away. If you’re serious about your sound, the Scarlett 16i16 is a reliable choice that won’t disappoint.

What People Say

Users love the Focusrite Scarlett 16i16 for its impressive sound quality and flexibility. Many appreciate how easy it is to set up and use, making it a favorite among both beginners and experienced audio professionals.

• This Focusrite interface has been a fantastic upgrade for my home studio. The sound quality is exceptional, and I love the independent power supply, which means I don’t have to rely on USB power. The Focusrite Control software is user-friendly, and I appreciate the loopback feature for streaming. It’s perfect for my needs, whether I’m recording vocals or mixing tracks.

  – James Merritt

• I’ve used several audio interfaces, but the Scarlett 16i16 stands out for its build quality and performance. The mic preamps are clean and noise-free, and the multiple outputs allow for great flexibility in my setup. The ability to handle high sampling rates is a bonus, making it ideal for both music production and podcasting.

  – Chris W. Brown

Why You’ll Love It

• 16 inputs and outputs for versatile recording options
• High-quality preamps with 69dB of gain for clear audio
• User-friendly Focusrite Control software for easy setup
• Durable build quality designed for long-term use

Perfect For Any Occasion

Whether you’re recording a solo project, a full band, or hosting a podcast, the Scarlett 16i16 adapts to your needs effortlessly. Its extensive connectivity options make it perfect for capturing everything from intricate musical performances to engaging conversations.

Current Price: $369.99

Rating: 4.7 (Total: 2774+)

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MOTU M6 6×4 USB-C Audio Interface with Studio-Quality Sound

The MOTU M6 is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to elevate their audio game without breaking the bank. With its sleek black design and solid build, this interface is perfect for musicians, podcasters, and content creators alike. It features six inputs and four outputs, including four high-quality mic preamps, making it incredibly versatile for recording everything from vocals to instruments. The sound quality is top-notch, thanks to the ESS Sabre32 DAC technology, which delivers a dynamic range that rivals more expensive models. Plus, it’s super easy to set up and use, making it a great option whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your current setup. If you’re serious about your sound, the MOTU M6 is definitely worth considering.

What People Say

Users rave about the MOTU M6 for its impressive sound quality and ease of use. Many appreciate the robust build and the flexibility it offers for various recording situations, making it a favorite among both beginners and seasoned professionals.

• I bought this to replace another brand that only had 2 XLR inputs as 4 XLR inputs is my minimum requirement. The build quality and sound quality are great and it set up easily- I’m using this with an Intel Mac Mini and Reaper. No complaints at all.

  – D Candido

• This thing is robust, easy to use, no BS, everything I needed for my podcast. It has everything I need and it gives me no fuss. Worth the purchase! I bought an M4 earlier and needed something a little more and wished I didn’t get rid of it.

  – TheBombJustDropped

Why You’ll Love It

• Six inputs and four outputs for versatile recording options
• High-quality preamps with ultra-clean audio for professional results
• User-friendly setup and operation for quick use
• Stand-alone operation capability for added flexibility

Perfect For Any Occasion

Whether you’re recording a full band, a podcast, or just laying down some tracks at home, the MOTU M6 adapts to your needs effortlessly. Its multiple inputs and outputs make it perfect for capturing everything from intricate musical performances to engaging conversations.

Current Price: $399.95

Rating: 4.6 (Total: 92+)

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Universal Audio Apollo Solo USB Heritage Edition

The Universal Audio Apollo Solo USB Heritage Edition is a standout choice for anyone serious about audio quality. This compact interface packs a punch with its two Unison mic preamps and top-tier audio conversion, making it perfect for recording vocals, instruments, or even podcasts. With a sleek design and a bundled UAD plug-in package worth over $1,300, you get a lot of value for your investment. It’s user-friendly, so whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, you’ll find it easy to set up and get great sound. If you’re looking to elevate your recordings, this interface is a solid option.

What People Say

Users appreciate the Apollo Solo for its exceptional sound quality and the value of the included plug-ins. Many have noted how it significantly improves their recordings, making it a favorite among musicians and content creators.

• 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

• When this thing actually works, it’s beautiful. It was worth the frustration to get it to work. The sound clarity is amazing, and the included software is a huge bonus.

  – Asintha Prabhashwara

Why You’ll Love It

• High-quality audio conversion for professional recordings
• Includes a premium suite of UAD plug-ins to enhance your sound
• User-friendly setup, perfect for beginners and pros alike
• Compact design makes it easy to integrate into any workspace

Perfect For Any Occasion

Whether you’re tracking vocals, recording instruments, or producing a podcast, the Apollo Solo fits seamlessly into your workflow. Its versatility allows you to capture high-quality audio in various settings, from home studios to professional environments.

Current Price: $499.00

Rating: 4.2 (Total: 319+)

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Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre Mic Preamp

The Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre Mic Preamp is a fantastic addition to your recording setup, especially if you’re looking to expand your input options. With eight high-quality Scarlett mic preamps, this unit allows you to connect multiple microphones simultaneously, making it perfect for recording bands or larger sessions. The ADAT connectivity is straightforward, so you can easily integrate it with your existing interface. Plus, it comes with a bundle of software that enhances your recording experience. If you’re serious about capturing great sound, this preamp is definitely worth considering.

What People Say

Users rave about the Scarlett OctoPre for its sound quality and ease of use. Many have found it to be an essential tool for expanding their recording capabilities, especially for multi-mic setups.

• I needed to be able to have all my mics plugged in at once and to be able to record into more than two microphones at once. The setup is very simple, and the LED display showing levels is very helpful. The sound quality is excellent, making it a necessary add-on for anyone recording a full band.

  – Bill P.

• Setup was a breeze. I was literally set up and recording within 5 minutes of taking the OctoPre out of the box. The pre-amps sound great, and the unit is well engineered. I highly recommend it for anyone looking to expand their recording capabilities.

  – L. Brandt

Why You’ll Love It

• Eight natural-sounding Scarlett mic preamps for high-quality recordings
• Simple ADAT connectivity for easy integration with existing setups
• Includes a comprehensive software bundle to enhance your recordings
• Compact design fits well in any studio environment

Perfect For Any Occasion

Whether you’re tracking drums, recording vocals, or capturing a full band, the Scarlett OctoPre is versatile enough to handle it all. Its ability to connect multiple microphones makes it ideal for both studio and live settings.

Current Price: $499.99

Rating: 4.5 (Total: 159+)

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Roland UA-1010 OCTA-CAPTURE

The Roland UA-1010 OCTA-CAPTURE is a versatile audio interface that brings professional-grade recording capabilities right to your home studio. With ten inputs and ten outputs, this interface is perfect for musicians and producers who need to capture multiple sound sources simultaneously. It features eight premium mic preamps that deliver pristine audio quality, making it ideal for everything from solo recordings to full band sessions. Plus, the AUTO-SENS function takes the guesswork out of setting levels, allowing you to focus on your creativity. If you’re looking for a reliable and high-performance audio interface, the OCTA-CAPTURE is definitely worth considering.

What People Say

Users appreciate the OCTA-CAPTURE for its ease of use and exceptional sound quality. Many have found it to be a reliable choice for both studio and live recording, especially when dealing with multiple sound sources.

• Setup was quick and painless, and I was up and running within minutes. The AUTO-SENS feature is a game changer, allowing me to set all my levels effortlessly. The sound is clean and transparent, and I couldn’t be happier with this interface.

  – MC

• This is a fantastic interface that blows away anything in its price range. The on-board preamps deliver clear sound, and the monitor mixer is a lifesaver for creating separate mixes for performers. I highly recommend it for anyone needing an interface with lots of inputs.

  – Christine E.B. Howard

Why You’ll Love It

• Ten inputs and outputs for maximum recording flexibility
• Eight premium mic preamps for high-quality sound
• AUTO-SENS function for automatic input level adjustment
• Supports all major DAW platforms for seamless integration

Perfect For Any Occasion

Whether you’re recording a full band, tracking vocals, or capturing instruments, the OCTA-CAPTURE is versatile enough to handle any situation. Its multiple inputs make it perfect for both studio sessions and live performances.

Current Price: $544.77

Rating: 3.9 (Total: 107+)

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Black Lion Audio Revolution 6×6 USB Audio Interface

The Black Lion Audio Revolution 6×6 USB Audio Interface is a game changer for home studio enthusiasts. With its sleek design and robust features, this interface offers six inputs and outputs, making it perfect for recording everything from vocals to instruments. It’s equipped with high-quality preamps and USB-C connectivity, ensuring you get the best sound possible. Whether you’re tracking a solo project or collaborating with friends, this interface has you covered. Plus, it’s compact enough to take on the go, so you can create wherever inspiration strikes.

What People Say

Users rave about the Revolution 6×6 for its exceptional sound quality and ease of use. Many have found it to be a reliable choice for both home studios and mobile recording setups, especially when needing high-quality preamps.

• I was using a digi 002 interface and a 20 year old Mac for years, but needed an update. This paired with a Royer for electric guitar mic’ing or a Neumann large condenser for vocals or acoustic instruments is just magical, and I can’t believe that I can finally get the sound that I’ve always wanted for less than $1000.

  – mana

• When I saw Black Lion started manufacturing their own gear I didn’t hesitate. They are a quality company. The cleanest, most natural-sounding digital audio conversion around. Pair it with the Black Lion word clock and you’ve got true big-boy sound.

  – Don Smith

Why You’ll Love It

• Six inputs and outputs for versatile recording options
• High-quality preamps for pristine audio
• USB-C connectivity for modern devices
• Compact and portable design for on-the-go recording

Perfect For Any Occasion

Whether you’re laying down tracks at home or recording a live session, the Revolution 6×6 is versatile enough to handle any situation. Its multiple inputs make it ideal for capturing a variety of sound sources, ensuring you never miss a moment.

Current Price: $549.00

Rating: 5.0 (Total: 2+)

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Audient EVO 16 USB Audio Interface

The Audient EVO 16 USB Audio Interface is designed for those who want to elevate their recording game without breaking the bank. With its sleek and modern design, this interface packs a punch with 16 channels of audio, making it perfect for everything from solo projects to full band recordings. The standout feature is its Smartgain technology, which automatically sets levels for you, ensuring you get the best sound possible without the hassle. Whether you’re at home or on the go, this interface is compact enough to fit into your setup seamlessly, allowing you to capture high-quality audio wherever inspiration strikes.

What People Say

Users appreciate the EVO 16 for its user-friendly setup and impressive sound quality. Many have highlighted its ability to handle multiple inputs seamlessly, making it a go-to choice for both home studios and live recordings.

• There are many features about this that are fantastic. For the price point, I’m not sure that you can beat this piece of equipment. It is literally plug and play. I use it as an interface for ProTools 10. With a few minutes of technical adjustments, works flawlessly. For a drummer, it automatically sets levels. The eight inputs are critical for mic’ing six drums with two overheads for cymbals. Highly recommended.

  – RGP

• I was looking to upgrade a Focusrite Solo and Line 6 M20d to do some band recordings. I saw the reviews of the EVO 16 and decided to give it a go. Did my first proper recording session yesterday and it worked perfectly; Cue mixes with ‘more me’, simple level setting and instant response. If you need more than 4 channels of input and are working to a budget, seriously consider the EVO 16.

  – Matt Flower

Why You’ll Love It

• 16 channels for versatile recording options
• Smartgain technology for automatic level setting
• Compact design for easy portability
• High-quality preamps for clear audio capture

Perfect For Any Occasion

Whether you’re tracking a solo project or recording a full band, the EVO 16 adapts to your needs. Its multiple inputs and Smartgain feature make it ideal for capturing a variety of sound sources, ensuring you never miss a moment of creativity.

Current Price: $579.99

Rating: 4.3 (Total: 88+)

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FAQ

What Should I Consider When Buying an Audio Interface Under $600?

When you’re looking for an audio interface under $600, think about your specific needs first. Consider the number of inputs and outputs you require. If you’re recording a band, you’ll want more channels. Look for features like low-latency performance, which is crucial for real-time monitoring, especially during recording sessions. Also, check for compatibility with your operating system and DAW. Lastly, don’t overlook the quality of the preamps; they can significantly affect your sound quality.

How Do I Set Up My Audio Interface for Optimal Performance?

Setting up your audio interface is usually straightforward. Start by connecting it to your computer using the appropriate USB cable. Install any necessary drivers or software that come with the interface. Once connected, open your DAW and select the audio interface as your input and output device. Make sure to adjust the buffer size in your DAW settings for optimal performance; a lower buffer size reduces latency but may cause glitches if set too low. Finally, test your inputs and outputs to ensure everything is working correctly.

Can I Use an Audio Interface for Live Streaming or Podcasting?

Absolutely! An audio interface is a great tool for live streaming and podcasting. It allows you to connect multiple microphones and instruments, providing high-quality audio. Make sure to choose an interface with enough inputs for your setup. You can also use features like direct monitoring to hear yourself without latency. Just ensure that your streaming software recognizes the audio interface as the input source, and you’re good to go. This setup will enhance your audio quality significantly compared to using a standard USB microphone.

Wrapping Up

In summary, investing in a quality audio interface can greatly enhance your recording capabilities and overall sound quality. The options listed above provide a range of features and price points, ensuring that you can find the right fit for your needs. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, these audio interfaces will help you achieve the sound you desire.