Affordable and high-quality audio interfaces under $100.
If you record audio at home or in a professional studio, you can’t do without an audio interface. Such products belong to different price categories – from basic $50 units to more powerful and feature-rich models with a $1000 price tag. Fortunately, manufacturers actively extend the niche of affordable audio interfaces, so finding a good option with intuitive controls won’t be a problem. However, while looking for the best audio interface under 100 dollars, you need to understand what aspects to pay attention to. This overview covers the major points.
All devices described below are USB-compliant, which means you can pair them with units running modern operating systems (Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS). Besides, you can use them right out of the box without downloading drivers. Such extensive compatibility makes an audio interface a future-proof investment that won’t become useless if a manufacturer stops delivering updates for new platforms.
Connectivity: USB | Protocol: 2.0 | Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 digital audio interface proves that you do not need to spend a small fortune to install a state-of-the-art, all-in-one, high-performance recording studio or command center. These all-in-one packages provide you with professional quality sound and signal transfer that allow you to record, mix and edit your recordings in real time.
When you buy this audio interface, you get the best audio interface for vocals with two line outputs, two balanced line outputs with one foot-switch and two mono input/outputs, a high-quality 12-channel sound interface with gain-boost, a front panel user control, and a comprehensive help documentation with easy to follow instructions.
Connectivity: USB | Protocol: 2.0 | Resolution: 24-bit/48kHz
Shure's newly designed MVi digital audio interface allows professional sound engineers and sound producers to mix and produce recordings quickly and easily. Its mixer has been designed with an extremely intuitive interface, letting you control every aspect of the recording process with ease.
It's designed to be a flexible yet powerful multi-out processor that's perfect for any level of audio recording and mixing. With a huge array of recording functions and easy to learn and operate touch-panel controls, the Shure MVi can run all your standard outboard microphones as well as many other types of interface equipment.
Connectivity: USB | Protocol: 3.0 | Resolution: 24-bit/48kHz
The Moukey USB 3.0 audio interface is a new lightweight and small device that offers modern convenience and high-quality recording. With this brand-new interface, recording has never been so easy or convenient. Its compact design and ease of use make it ideal for both Mac and PC users.
In addition to the convenience of being portable, the interface also delivers high-quality sound reproduction. It provides the user with easy connectivity options including four USB ports, FireWire port, MIDI, and digital optical audio input and output. In addition to this, the device also features a user-friendly software program.
Connectivity: USB | Protocol: 2.0 | Resolution: 24-bit/48kHz
The M-Audio M-Track Solo USB audio interface provides a clear and audible output with high quality performance for both studio recording and live performance. The streamlined design of the bundled mixer makes it very easy to setup and handle, and the preamp section is especially helpful when you need extra power and monitoring functions.
The powerful 6-volt preamp system drives the speakers effectively and gives you superior sound reproduction. The front channels are also very powerful and are perfect for live performance. Phantom power helps you to eliminate sound interference. The two channels of 48 kHz audio resolution are also a great help when mixing over a Firewire connection.
Connectivity: USB | Protocol: 2.0 | Resolution: 16-bit/48kHz
The Midiplus Smartface II digital audio interface is a high quality digital interface designed to connect microphones to audio equipment. Its mixer elements allow one to send more than one signal at once, making it ideal for multitrack recording and mixing applications.
The interface has various controls which allow the user to switch between input signals as well as a large number of options for controlling levels and effects on the incoming signal. For this reason, the system is often used with live performance applications.
Connectivity: USB | Protocol: 2.0 | Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz
M-Audio AIR/HUB USB audio interface gives you access to your recording hardware through a USB port. The interface has two input options: direct control and indirect control. With the direct control interface, it is designed to be used with recording hardware that includes computer keyboards, virtual instruments, and software synthesizers.
The interface allows direct connection to the audio device and functions through the MIDI commands sent by the instrument. On the other hand, the indirect control recording interface connects the interface to external hardware such as recording microphones or sound modules through a USB port.
Connectivity: USB | Protocol: 2.0 | Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
The Tascam US-1x2HR audio interface has been designed to work seamlessly with a multitude of recording and mixing tasks, giving you the ability to record and mix in true professional style.
When coupled with a phantom power source, the audio interface is able to provide you with the crisp, clear sound of professional tape monitors without the limitations and disadvantages often encountered when using traditional recording gear. In addition to being able to operate with one speaker, these units also have an extremely long cable, ideal for installation in professional studios or anywhere you might need rear speakers.
Connectivity: 3.5 mm TRS | Protocol: - | Resolution: 24-bit/48kHz
TC HELICON GOGUITAR audio interface is a high quality, professional-looking guitar interface for mobile devices such as ipods and smartphones. With it you are able to record directly from your iOS, Android, or Windows phone to your iOS, Android, or Windows device for much better audio quality than you would with the built in guitar interface.
The XLR output lets you connect up to four microphones and also 48V phantom power supplies provide the power needed for microphones. A separate headphone output displays the amount of phantom power used and a LED light helps you monitor the levels of gain and phantom power.
Connectivity: USB | Protocol: 2.0 | Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz
The Maker Hart Just Mic audio interface is very popular amongst people who are familiar with multi-channel audio interface. It is simple yet user friendly multi function tool that does all that you want it to do. It doesn't cost much and it comes with lots of value-added features.
It has an interface for both Mac and PC and it can be used with any of the major recording software like Pro Tools, Cubase, Fruity Loops, Sonar and Reason. It has been designed in such a way that it is a perfect match for any audio interface in terms of quality, ease of operation and also price.
| IMAGE | NAME | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|---|
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PreSonus AudioBox USB 96
Our Choice
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CHECK PRICE → | |
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Shure MVi
Modern
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CHECK PRICE → | |
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Moukey USB 3.0
Lightweight
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CHECK PRICE → |
The first thing to pay attention to is the number of channels. 1- and 2-channel audio interfaces are suitable for amateurish needs when you record music at home and want to record vocals and instruments simultaneously with the possibility of further mixing. Those planning to record 2+ sound sources in one go, should invest in audio interfaces with 4 and more channels.
Most devices are fitted with “combo” inputs, which means you can plug in both XLR and ¼-inch wires. These are referred to as 2-in-1 ports and allow for smaller form factors, which in the long run, reduces the price of a device. Besides, such inputs make connection absolutely worry-free regardless of whether you connect microphones and instruments. Keep in mind that older audio interfaces have separate XLR and ¼-inch input ports. We have specified the type of inputs for all models listed below, so you can find the best audio interface under 100 dollars for your system.
In most cases, manufacturers add software to an audio interface to make it more saleable. Sometimes, this is a simplified trial version of a DAW, but you may also get a unit with an authorized full version. To find out what software you pay for, read the small print on the packaging.
If you already have a reliable DAW and don’t need another version, opt for free VST’s on offer. These are instruments or effects that are included in many kits. They are compatible with numerous platforms and operating systems.
The latest interfaces work smoothly with all DAW versions, while older products may show errors. Not to get in such a trap, check other buyers’ reviews on different resources.
USB is the most common and widely supported option, offering good compatibility and sufficient bandwidth for most home recording needs. Thunderbolt is faster and provides lower latency, making it ideal for professional audio production and high-demand applications.
FireWire, although less prevalent nowadays, offers reliable and stable data transfer, particularly for older devices and systems. Ultimately, the choice between these options depends on your specific recording requirements, available hardware, and budget.
Yes, there are. These interfaces are often compact, lightweight, and offer features tailored for on-the-go use, such as direct connectivity to smartphones or tablets, built-in microphones or preamps, and compatibility with mobile recording apps. Some popular options include the Focusrite Scarlett Solo, PreSonus AudioBox iTwo, and the Apogee Duet.
Yes, there are audio interfaces under $100 that cater to live performance or DJ setups. One example is the Behringer U-Phoria UMC204HD, which offers low-latency monitoring, multiple outputs for DJ mixing, and MIDI connectivity.
Another option is the Focusrite Scarlett Solo, which is compact, offers good sound quality, and has a direct monitoring feature suitable for live performance needs.
