The Best Beginner Audio Interfaces (Buying Guide)

So you’ve just started putting together your first home studio, and now it’s time to get an audio interface. Awesome! 

You don’t need a complicated setup to record vocals or instruments. There are some really simple interfaces that are perfect for beginners.

At a Glance: The Best Beginner Audio Interfaces

1. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) — The Best Beginner Audio Interface

Features:

• 2 XLR/TRS combo inputs
• Award-winning preamps
• Focusrite’s Air mode for brighter, more open recordings
• Bundled software included

The Scarlett series devices are the golden standard for entry-level interfaces. Its controls are intuitive, and the hardware quality is impeccable. And they’re very reasonably priced, too. 

The 2i2 is more than capable of recording clean vocals for music, podcasts, and video. The included AIR mode (which emphasizes mid-to-high frequencies) lets you capture even cleaner vocals.

There are two inputs that accept both XLR and instrument cables, letting you record a wider variety of sources than a single microphone or guitar.

If you only do light recording, then it’s not unrealistic to say the Scarlett 2i2 could be the last interface you’ll ever need. I’ve been using mine for over eight years and don’t see myself getting rid of it anytime soon.

Plus, you can find the 2i2 in a bundle with a microphone and headphones, making it an incredible value proposition for beginners.

2. PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 — Also Great

Features:

• 2 XLR/TRS combo inputs
• MIDI in/out
• Native support for Apple Silicon and iOS devices
• Bundled with Studio One Artist (DAW)

The AudioBox is a rugged little machine that lets you record clean high-quality audio right away. 

Like most interfaces, the PreSonus AudioBox has two combo inputs, giving you some options for recording with either a mic or instrument cable. But unlike the other devices on this list, the AudioBox has MIDI In/Out ports. This lets you hook up an additional synth or MIDI controller if you want.

And if you need new recording software, the AudioBox comes bundled with PreSonus Studio One Artist — a fully featured DAW for all your music production needs.

The PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 also offers native support for Apple Silicon and iOS devices. In other words, you can use your Mac, iPhone, or iPad to make music without any problem.

3. Behringer U-Phoria UM2 — Budget Pick

Features:

• 1 XLR/TRS combo input
• 1 line input
• Small form factor

This was actually the very first audio interface I bought for my setup. And for less than $50, it’s shockingly good.

In terms of functionality, the UM2 is about as plain as it gets. On the front are two inputs – one that accepts both XLR and instrument lines, and another that’s purely for instrument cables. There’s also a ¼-inch headphone jack, and a button for direct monitoring.

The top of the interface also has three dials. The first two affect the gain levels for the inputs, and the third controls the output level.

If you’re on a very tight budget, the Behringer UM2 is a very compelling option for any beginner.

4. Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD — Best for Multiple Inputs

Features:

• 4 XLR/TRS combo inputs
• MIDAS preamps
• 4 additional line inputs
• Up to 9 audio outputs
• MIDI in/out

If you’re really into home recording and need a more advanced setup, then Behringer has you covered. The Behringer UMC404HD is a no-nonsense interface that gives you plenty of flexibility.

To start off, there are four combo inputs on the front that accept XLR and ¼” cables. Each one has a genuine MIDAS preamp, letting you record crystal-clear vocals and audio with plenty of headroom. 

Then, you have four additional ¼” inputs on the backside, expanding your capabilities even further. You’ll also have up to nine outputs (six ¼”, two XLR, and headphones), letting you test your mixes on different sets of speakers if you need.

And with the addition of MIDI In/Out, you can hook up a synth or MIDI controller for expanded usability.

5. Focusrite Scarlett Solo — Best for Solo Musicians

Features:

• 1 mic input + 1 line input
• Award-winning preamp
• Focusrite’s Air mode for brighter, more open recordings
• Small form factor

The little brother of the Focusrite Scarlett family. It has all the same capabilities as the Scarlett 2i2. The only major difference is the number of inputs.

On the front, the Scarlett Solo has one XLR input for microphones, and one ¼” input for instruments.

It’s really handy if you’re traveling and need a portable setup. Its small form factor fits in almost any bag or case.

How We Chose These Beginner Audio Interface

This list only scratches the surface. There are plenty of other great options out there, and you could honestly do just fine with these or almost any other interface.

But there are some things you should still consider when choosing a beginner audio interface.

Budget

One of the first things beginners probably ask themselves is how much to spend.

The truth is, you don’t need to spend a lot to get good results. I started with a cheap $45 interface and got paid to record voiceovers with it.

You can find an audio interface in just about any price range. So the question comes down to your other needs.

• Read more: What is an Audio Interface?

Ease of Use

This is arguably the most important factor when choosing a beginner audio interface. Some have so many buttons, dials, and functions that it can overwhelm a new user.

All the interfaces on this list are pretty simple to set up and use. Once they’re connected to your computer, you can plug in your microphone, turn on phantom power, and start recording.

Hardware Quality and Audio Quality

An audio interface with better electronics under the hood will generally give you better quality recordings. Plain and simple.

Poor quality or faulty electronics run the risk of tainting your recordings with static or hissing. This makes it frustrating and discouraging to record sometimes.

The build quality is also a factor, since you’ll want it to last a good long while. Interfaces like the Scarlett 2i2 or the Audiobox come in a durable metal chassis, protecting the hardware inside from unnecessary damage.

Size and Portability

If you’re a beginner, then chances are you don’t have a rack to mount heavy-duty equipment. That’s okay. All you need is space on your desk.

You’ll notice that most of the interfaces on this list are fairly small. They take up little space on your desk and can easily be transported around.

This makes them particularly handy for on-site recording. I’ve taken my laptop with an interface for plenty of sessions.

Not What You’re Looking For? Try These Other Resources

We think these are all great options for beginner audio interfaces. That said, you might be looking for other gear. In which case, you should check out these other resources:

• For Mac users, check out our picks for the best audio interfaces for Mac.
• If you’re a beginner, we have a guide for building a cheap home studio under $200.

And for more gear and software recommendations, check out our Toolbox for Composers, Producers, and Musicians.