Affordable and high-quality audio interfaces under $200.
Nowadays, people involved in music production often set up a recording studio in their home. With advances in technology and reduced cost of the equipment, these desires may become a reality. There are many brands on the market with different prices and characteristics. To make your life easier, we have picked 9 decent options to help you find the best audio interface under 200 dollars.
We've also prepared some helpful guidelines for you to choose the best interface for your musical needs. Even if you're on a tight budget, you can still buy a quality model with decent features. When you go shopping, keep in mind some important characteristics. These are dimensions, weight, MIDI in/out, audio resolution, and connectivity.
Connectivity: USB | Protocol: 2.0 | Resolution: 24-bit/48kHz
The M-Audio M-Track Solo USB sound interface gives you 2-track recording in a simple and compact format which is perfect for making music on virtually any Mac, PC or iOS platform. The convenient interface makes it extremely easy to record and edit any kind of audio source.
This popular device has a built-in compressor that can optimally control the level of any recording. A compressor which is ideal for smaller jobs is provided by the device. Its mixer section gives you the option to send various inputs to different tracks. This versatile device is perfect for record and playback recording, both on-board and external audio sources.
Connectivity: USB | Protocol: 2.0 | Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz
Whether you're a professional music producer musician, or podcast host on a budget, the PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 will fit your needs perfectly. This straightforward, convenient little recording interface comes with just the right features for most basic recording requirements, allowing you to quickly plug in and begin recording up to 96-khz, 24-bit audio right away without worrying about signal levels or compatibility issues.
This audio interface comes ready for iPod, iPhone, and iPad right out of the box for free. Built to travel and bus-powered, this great little soundboard makes recording so easy. With an intuitive interface and an extensive range of recording features, it's perfect for those on the go.
Connectivity: USB | Protocol: 2.0 | Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
The one of the M-Audio family of professional audio interface products are the Air 192/4 USB audio interface. With the Air 192/4, you are able to make high quality, studio-quality recordings from any computer with an easy and intuitive interface. Boasting a sturdy metal body with a large volume control knob, it is delivers the best professional-quality sound available in its price range.
The onboard mixer allows for easy access to all controller functions, while the front panel DSI ports provide users with standard USB connectivity for various computer accessories and audio software applications. With the exceptional precision of the onboard digital audio tools, even the most novice of audio engineers are able to create inspiring studio recordings.
Connectivity: USB | Protocol: 2.0 | Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
PreSonus Studio 24c 2x2 sound interface provides superior sound quality over conventional analog interfaces. With a fast USB connection, the user can fire up his computer and instantly access thousands of virtual instruments.
It offers several options for input and output, including patch points for recording, line in and monitor out connections, and mono/stereo mode. The monitor section allows you to use two hands for panning and sound adjustment. A special foot pedal enables you to play almost any type of sound.
Connectivity: USB | Protocol: 2.0 | Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
The Tascam US-4x4HR audio interface gives you the opportunity to expand your creative abilities as well as achieving professional results; this is because of its user-friendly user interface. With its intuitive interface and various types of options, you are sure to get a perfect sound solution that meets all your recording needs.
The all-in-one professional mixing and recording studio allow you to conveniently record and mix any type of music, and you can even add additional processors like a compressor or an equalizer for even more clarity. With the built-in audio interface protection and compression abilities, you get professional sound solutions at unbelievably affordable prices.
Connectivity: USB | Protocol: 2.0 | Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz
If you are looking for a great sounding and performing interface that have everything you need, then take a look at the M-Audio Air/Hub audio interface. This handy multi-interface device allows you to route both recording and playback via a single convenient controller.
With its compact size and professional-like design, this device is great for professional recording engineers. But with the numerous functions and an amazing price, it's also perfect for the home recording engineer. With such impressive abilities, you should definitely get this model to expand your music recording, or home theater experience.
Connectivity: USB | Protocol: 2.0 | Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
The Native Instruments Komplete audio interface is a sound creation powerhouse, providing you with tons of sound effects and signal processing options to make your beats come to life. Its onboard mixer allows you to mix the track together in real-time, while onboard virtual rack allows you to organize and select sounds from different modules with ease.
With a high-definition audio interface, extensive sound library and a wide array of effects and plugins, it makes editing your tracks fast and easy. You'll also get a complete range of built-in functions and popular boxes that let you expand your sound palette with ease.
Connectivity: USB | Protocol: 2.0 | Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
There are few components in the world that create such an enduring legacy of sound quality as does the Tascam US-2x2HR audio interface. With this interface, component connection has never been more expedient. The 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 it 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.
| IMAGE | NAME | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|---|
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M-Audio M-Track Solo
Our choice
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CHECK PRICE → | |
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PreSonus AudioBox USB 96
Reliable
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CHECK PRICE → | |
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M-Audio AIR 192/4
Durable
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CHECK PRICE → |
First, think about how you will use your audio interface. This affects the number of required inputs. You need fewer connections for recording dance music than for working with bands. Typically, 2 inputs are sufficient for common small home studio needs. Things are simpler with outputs. Typically, you need one left and one right output to connect your listening source to.
A condenser mic is a must-have thing for a variety of recording projects. This means you need an audio interface that can supply 11V and 48V phantom power. When shopping for the best audio interface under 200 bucks, pay attention to this factor to avoid any inconveniences in the future.
Many audio interfaces are powered via USB. Power adapters or "wall warts" are still relevant, but USB provides more flexibility and portability especially if there is no outlet near you. If you need mobility and are going to use your interface outside the studio, then you should consider purchasing battery-powered models.
Manufacturers usually supply their devices with special software for better performance. If you are looking for the best audio interface under 200 dollars, then there are several packages available for you. You can choose from ‘LE’ options for basic needs to fully functional bundles with powerful sets of effects and syncs. Typically, audio interfaces in this category work with a digital audio workstation (DAW).
