Budget Audio Interfaces: The 5 Best Audio Interfaces that You Can Actually Afford

In 2022, you don’t need to spend a lot of money to start making music. In fact, if you’re able to read this article, you’ve probably got everything you need to start making electronic or software-based music. There are plenty of free digital audio workstations (including apps for your phone or tablet) that you can download today and use to get started programming software instruments like the ones that appear in most modern music. However, when you want to start introducing live instruments, original vocals and better quality monitoring into your production workflow, you’ll likely need to invest in an audio interface. Don’t worry though, this article will show you that there are options for audio interfaces that really are affordable.

Although they all perform the same fundamental function - converting analog audio from a microphone or instrument into digital information that can be passed into a computer (usually via usb) - different audio interfaces are better suited to different use cases. When selecting the right interface, you should consider:

• What inputs do you need, and how many of each do you need? If you’ll only ever record 1 instrument at a time, then a single combo xlr-jack input with options to switch between mic and line will be plenty. However, if you want to record lots of singers simultaneously, or mic up a drum kit, you’ll likely want lots of XLR inputs, with good preamps and perhaps with phantom power.
• How will you be listening back to what you record? If you’re using reference monitors, you’ll need to make sure your interface has the right connections, or that reliable adapters are available. Some audio interfaces are better at powering headphones than others, particularly if you’re using high-resistance headphones such as the popular Beyerdynamic range.
  

Don’t forget, it’s not all about the audio interface. In fact, the interface probably has less impact on the quality of your music than the right microphone, or perhaps better monitoring, so consider what other components of your recording setup you could distribute your budget to before splashing out on the most expensive audio interface.

1. Behringer U-Phoria UM2

This is the cheapest audio interface on our list, since you can pick one up for a little over £30. That doesn’t mean it’s lacking in functionality, although you might notice a difference in build quality compared to some of our more expensive options. With an XLR mic input and a jack instrument input, you’ll be able to record all the instruments you could need provided you’re okay with recording them one or two at a time. This interface is the perfect way to get started with recording because it’s so straightforward whilst still having the capability to produce industry standard results. There are many differing opinions about Behringer as a brand and the quality of their products, but in my experience they’re always great value for money and hold their ground about more expensive alternatives. I’ve never owned this interface, but I’ve used a range of Behringer mixing desks, microphones, compressors and DI boxes with great results.

2. M-Audio M-Track DUO

For less than £20 more than our previous interface, the M-Track DUO from M-Audio has a lot more flexibility and would likely result in a much more comfortable recording experience. The stand out feature at this price point is the option to switch between instrument/mic for each input, with the choice of both XLR and jack. This means that you can record two microphones, two guitars, or a microphone and a guitar, at the same time. This is extremely valuable when it comes to flexibility and efficiency. For example, you could use a pair of mics to create a stereo recording of an acoustic guitar by having both inputs on their microphone setting and recording the two channels simultaneously. This interface also has separate monitor and headphone controls, which makes it a more frictionless experience compared to working with the Behringer interface.

3. TC Helicon Go Solo

Right at the start of this article I said that you can start making music with whatever device you have - even a phone or tablet. This audio interface is perfect for producers who work on their mobile device, or who travel often and want a compact interface that would fit comfortably in their pocket. This audio interface comes with options to connect by USB A (regular USB port), USB C, lightning (Apple devices) or micro-USB meaning you can record any microphone (including those that need phantom power) or instrument onto any device you’d like to. There's gain control so that you can ensure you’re not clipping or recording too quietly, and a headphone output for monitoring. This interface isn’t the best value for money for someone who always works at a desk or who doesn’t mind carrying larger gear around, but it’s perfect for anyone who’s on the go or uses a mobile device to make music. It does require batteries in order to provide the phantom power, so bear that in mind if you decide this is the device for you.

4. M Audio AIR 192|4

As soon as I started writing about budget audio interfaces, I knew I couldn’t leave this one off the list. It sits proudly in my studio and I use it every day to record vocals and guitars. It features detailed, colourful level metres and precise control over the balance of direct output and USB output that is heard in the headphones. This interface is highly commended for its low noise floor, meaning quiet recordings and high gain levels don’t lead to messy background noise. The large dial in the centre of the interface is used for controlling monitor volume (reminiscent of the much more expensive Apollo Twin interface) and feels extremely intuitive. However, as the most expensive interface in our list so far, it is disappointing that the two inputs cannot be alternated between recording microphone and line level signals, meaning it is only ever possible to record one microphone and one instrument at a time.

5. Focusrite Scarlett Solo (or Focusrite Scarlett 2i2)

It would be impossible to make a list of budget audio interfaces (or premium audio interfaces for that matter) without discussing Focusrite and two of their best-selling products - the Focusrite Scarlett Solo and the Scarlett 2i2. Sold exclusively in their signature red casing, these are two of the most common interfaces found in home studios internationally, mostly due to their great value for money. Both feature microphone and instrument inputs, but the solo only offers one of each while the 2i2 gives producers the option to determine what each of the two inputs is being used for. There aren’t detailed metres for each of the channels like the ones on the previous interface, but there are lights around the gain controls which indicate whether the level is too strong in a fairly stylish manner. There are independent headphone and monitor controls which make for great convenience and the compact, sturdy form factor make it ideal for moving around or travelling with.

So, there you have five audio interfaces that can be found online for less than £100 and will give you all the functionality you need to start recording instruments for your music. It’s crucial to consider your needs before you select an interface, including how much you’ve got to spend, what you’re planning to record, and what other equipment you’re pairing the interface with.