Top 5 Audio Interfaces for Home Studio

If there’s one essential element at the heart of any studio for music production, it’s undoubtedly the sound card for a home studio (or audio interface). This device allows us to convert the analog signal of our recordings into digital data and vice versa, as well as providing all the necessary inputs and outputs for recording or monitoring audio from our computer, improving latency (delay time) during recording.

Since in many of the online music productions we do at GuitarRec, the vocal recording is performed by our composer clients, they often ask us about which sound card or audio interface to choose. So, in this article, we’ll focus on five small beasts (plus several bonuses we’ve added as updates over time), offering great performance and numerous possibilities, both technical and creative, with plenty of inputs and outputs for home studio recording.

Let’s dive into the list!

BEST SOUND CARDS FOR RECORDING IN A HOME STUDIO

1. Behringer UPhoria UMC204HD

If there’s one brand that’s determined to surprise us, it’s Behringer. They offer a small unit with everything you need at a very low price. Additionally, as a bonus, their built-in microphone preamps are designed by the legendary brand Midas, which Behringer acquired some time ago.

The UPhoria UMC204HD is a compact and robust USB-powered interface (no external power supply needed). With two Canon/Jack inputs, four outputs, MIDI in/out, and a headphone output with a dedicated potentiometer, it offers all the necessary connectivity in a compact space.

It records at 24-bit/192 kHz and includes phantom power for condenser microphones. We’d love to find some flaws, but at this price, this interface leaves us speechless…

2. Steinberg UR22 MK2

Not content with offering one of the best music production software (Cubase) on the market, Steinberg ventured into external sound cards a few years ago, launching a fairly wide range, among which the UR 22 MK2 stands out.

Small and robust, with a metal casing, this compact interface is great for desktop or portable use. You might want to take part of your studio on vacation or to a friend’s house. Its compact size is a huge advantage.

Just like the previous model, the mic inputs (XLR) also include a central section for line input via Jack cable (or TS/TRS) or instrument signal by selecting the high-impedance (Hi-Z) switch for guitars or electric basses.

An outstanding feature is the inclusion of a license for the powerful Cubase software (basic version), making it a very competitive package to help you produce and compose songs more professionally.

3. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen and 4th Gen

Undoubtedly one of the best-selling audio cards in recent years. Focusrite has nailed it in terms of design, features, and price. The Scarlett range reaches its third generation, offering a modern, sleek interface (you won’t see as many buttons and knobs) that’s fully functional.

With a USB-C port, compatibility with Windows and Mac, and equipped with two Scarlett preamps praised for their clarity and precision (something rare in devices in this price range), it’s a stellar choice. Additionally, the “Air” function is a fantastic feature, subtly modifying the preamp’s frequency response to shape the sound characteristics of the best microphones for home studios and other instruments connected via the line inputs.

4. Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII Duo (or the newer Volt2 and Volt4)

We now take a significant leap in price range, as Universal Audio offers professional-level quality at a still reasonable price.

The Apollo Twin MKII Duo (Thunderbolt version for Mac, with a USB version for PC) is an external sound card featuring two mic/line preamps using Unison technology, designed to emulate some of the most iconic preamps in history. Some of these preamps and other high-quality effects come free as plugins with the purchase of the interface. Many more are available for purchase on Universal Audio’s website. Additionally, the interface processes these powerful plugins internally using its two DSP SHARC processors (“Duo”), saving your computer’s CPU resources and allowing near-zero-latency monitoring while recording voice and instruments.

Another standout feature is the ability to expand inputs via optical cable, with either additional Apollo devices or other preamps or cards.

With an elegant design suitable for desktop use, the Apollo has become a staple in many project and professional home studios, where countless hits you’ve probably heard have been recorded.

Universal Audio Volt 2 and Volt 4

Another alternative for building your home studio is the Universal Audio Volt 2 and Volt 4 interfaces. These simpler models are designed for users looking for high recording quality without the cost of a high-end interface like the Twin. Both devices offer analog mic preamps with UA’s classic 610-inspired sound and “vintage” mode switches that add character and saturation. However, they don’t include DSPs for running Universal Audio’s powerful plugins internally. That said, UA’s UAD Spark software allows their famous plugins to run natively on any audio card. Additionally, there are numerous free professional plugins available to help achieve professional results when recording and mixing music.

The Volt 2 offers 2 inputs and 2 outputs, while the Volt 4 features 4 inputs and 4 outputs, differentiating them in terms of connectivity capacity.

5. RME Fireface UCX

You may be less familiar with this audio interface, but it’s worth mentioning. RME sound cards and preamps are hidden gems in some of the best home studios, online recording studios, and professional setups. It’s no surprise given the outstanding quality of their preamps and converters, as well as the stability of their drivers on both Mac and PC.

The UCX model is a half-rack format device with Firewire and/or USB connectivity and a variety of inputs and outputs that make it versatile for different studio situations.

This external sound card features an internal DSP processor, enabling native effect monitoring (non-expandable) such as reverb, EQ, or compression directly on the card without using the computer, ensuring zero-latency recording.

Its famous TotalMix offers a fully configurable mixer, enabling any routing option imaginable for inputs and outputs. You can even save presets to use it as a standalone mixer without connecting it to a computer. Another unique feature is its Class Compliant mode, which allows it to connect to an iPad.

RME Babyface Pro FS

If you’re interested in RME’s crystal-clear sound and reliability but in a more portable (and affordable) format than the Fireface series, consider the proven model: RME Babyface Pro FS. Undoubtedly, this RME is one of the best audio interfaces for producing music in a home studio, thanks to its quality and drivers, and it’s portable enough to take anywhere.

…and we’ve added some Bonus Tracks with new options we find interesting:

(Extra 1 – External Sound Card) M-Audio Air 192/6

This USB card by M-Audio is the successor to the older M-Track series, updating the design and improving quality with its new Crystal preamps.

In addition to its attractive design, the layout of its controls, illuminated LEDs, inputs, and outputs make it a great centerpiece for any studio. Its top panel clearly displays all the information you might need.

Like the Behringer, Steinberg, and Focusrite models mentioned earlier, the M-Audio includes a USB/Direct controller that lets you adjust the amount of processed or direct signal from the inputs (without latency) you want to hear. This is very useful if you’re working with a less powerful computer. Like most current external sound cards, it’s compatible with Mac and PC (Windows) and allows recording at up to 192 kHz and 24-bit resolution.

Lastly, it’s worth highlighting the extensive included software that comes with this affordable interface: from DAWs like Pro Tools First and Ableton Live (Lite), to a solid collection of plugins and free virtual instruments ready to use as soon as the card is installed.

(Extra 2 – Audio Interface) – MOTU M2

The MOTU M2 is a USB audio interface that has gained popularity among producers and musicians for its excellent sound quality and compact, functional design. With two inputs with preamps, two outputs, and ESS Sabre32 converters—the same technology used in high-end equipment—the M2 delivers superior audio quality in both recording and playback. Ideal for home studios, it features low latency and a simple control panel, making it a perfect tool for musicians, podcasters, and content creators. It includes color LCD meters, a rarity in its price range, making it an excellent choice for those starting home recording with a well-established professional audio brand. This interface connects via USB-C.

(Extra 3 – External Sound Card) – SSL 2 and SSL 12

The SSL 2 is a USB audio interface that brings the quality and prestige of Solid State Logic (SSL), a legendary name in professional recording studios, to a compact and affordable format for home studios. With two inputs featuring SSL preamps and two outputs, this interface delivers excellent sound quality, maintaining the warmth and clarity characteristic of SSL. An additional appeal is the “Legacy 4K” button, which emulates the famous analog character of the SSL 4000 series consoles, adding brightness and presence to your recordings. It’s perfect for musicians, producers, and podcasters seeking a reliable, high-end solution for home production. The connection is via USB-C, ensuring compatibility and fast data transfer speeds.

The SSL 2+ retains the same audio specifications but adds more connectivity options, with four outputs, two MIDI inputs, and the capability to handle multiple monitors or external equipment. This makes it one of the best sound cards for home studios, ideal for those seeking a more versatile interface without compromising sound quality.

Solid State Logic SSL 12 Audio Interface

The SSL 12, the bigger sibling of the SSL 2 and 2+, takes connectivity and functionality to the next level. With four inputs featuring SSL preamps of high quality and four balanced outputs, it offers greater flexibility for larger studios or projects requiring multiple simultaneous inputs and outputs. Additionally, it includes a comprehensive set of dual headphone outputs, MIDI, and advanced integration with the SSL 360° control software, providing advanced signal routing and monitoring options. Without a doubt, it’s one of the best current options for home and project recording studios.

For more information on sound cards, production software, and audio computers, we suggest this article on our blog with everything you need to know to record at home, set up your home studio, and get the most out of your equipment.

Best-Selling Sound Cards for Home Studios Today

Below are some of the sound interface options currently favored by music producers for building their home or project studios.

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