Affordable and high-quality iPad audio interfaces.
The iPad has completely changed the way many users approach music production. Equipped with a mere tablet, audio interface, and some other accessories, a singer, musician, DJ, or recording expert can put together a professional-grade setup with minimum effort.
How can you pick the best iPad audio interface for such a purpose? Even though you can pair your iPad or iPhone with any interface that has a USB output, choosing an option that suits your needs perfectly can be quite challenging. This article will help you bypass that dilemma by going over an array of high-quality audio interfaces that have the modest power requirements and compact form factors required for comfortable iPad use.
Connectivity: USB Type-B | Protocol: USB 2.0 | Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
If you are looking forward to expand your music creativity, you must give a serious thought to Steinberg's UR-RT4 digital audio interface. This new generation equipment offers ultimate professional tools that will help you create innovative music with ease and in lesser time. The four-channel audio interface is designed with a high-quality RCA input and standard VGA output that will meet the demands of professional musicians.
You can connect the interface to an existing computer or laptop through FireWire or USB cable. and a lot more. If you are looking for a reliable mixer then you should consider the Steinberg UR-RT4 since it is equipped with all the features and function that any professional audio engineer could ask for. Its user friendly interface and advanced routing options make this mixer ideal for both studio or live performance. Moreover, its four-channel architecture enables the user to process up to eight channels of audio signal simultaneously.
Connectivity: USB Type-C | Protocol: USB 2.0 | Resolution: 24-bit/48kHz
The iRig Multimedia IK Stream 2-channel audio interface with front-panel controls provides all of your professional needs with a single product. This innovative product not only has been designed to meet the needs of professionals but also provides you with easy to use convenience. With the iRig Multimedia IK Stream 2-channel audio interface, you have the ability to stream digital audio over the internet, connect your device to multiple computers and connect your device to other devices with a FireWire port.
The Multimedia IK Stream 2-channel audio interface utilizes two outputs, one for normal audio and another for Mp3 data. This is ideal for connecting several devices together, as well as being used as an interface with digital cameras or printers. This device also utilizes a high-speed USB 2.0 connection, making it simple to connect to multiple computers. The software will run seamlessly with any Mac, PC or Linux computer and can be downloaded immediately after purchase.
Connectivity: USB Type-C | Protocol: USB 2.0 | Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz
Apogee Jam Plus USB audio interface for iPad is one of the popular iPad accessories. You can simply use this device in order to enhance your workflow. The product is not only useful for recording audio, but also for recording video. This is due to the fact that it is very portable, so you can carry it along with you wherever you go.
It is actually a plug & play device with a standard USB cable that can be used to record audio as well as video. The ease and portability of Jam+ make this perfect for capturing your best takes anywhere you go. If you need to do a live performance, then this is the perfect tool for you to make use of.
Connectivity: USB Type-C | Protocol: USB 3.0 | Resolution: 32-bit/192kHz
The Steinberg UR22C 2x2 USB audio interface enables you to make professional sounding recordings and enhances your chances of getting a fantastic recording out of the little things that go into recording. This system also makes it easy to transfer your tracks from your PC to a Mac or vice versa, making this an ideal device for both home and professional audio recording applications.
The two physical connectors on the Steinberg UR22C 2x2 USB audio interface make connecting this versatile recording interface easy regardless of the source device. An audio cable of one length connects to one of the two input jacks, while a FireWire cable connects to the other jack. This allows for all sorts of different recording applications to be used with this recording interface including recording drums, vocals, or other sounds through the mixer. A USB port allows for easy transfer of the recorded media from a computer to an ordinary audio interface like a sound card or laptop.
Connectivity: USB Type-B | Protocol: USB 2.0 | Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
The MeloAudio Tone Shifter Mega MIDI foot controller with audio interface makes it possible for you to bring the virtual studio right to your own home. With the built-in audio interface device you can connect with your computer through its USB port or with your Mac via its MIDI interface. If you have a sound editing application like Pro Tools or Cubase, then it is possible for you to control the audio interface device through it.
The Melo Audio Tone Shifter Mega MIDI controller with audio interface features eight onboard channels that are all designed specifically to cater to every need and desire of a professional music producer. With this innovative and technologically advanced unit, you can be sure that you will never lack for options when it comes to mixing and mastering your track. Its jog wheel contains two zones for the addition of reverb and gating effects.
Connectivity: USB Type-C | Protocol: USB 2.0 | Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz
The iK Multimedia iRig Keys MIDI controller with full audio interface makes it simple to create and play any digital audio. The powerful onboard synthesizer allows you to draw, edit, and combine audio and MIDI data from any computer. Each key is assigned a velocity which when changed to correspond to a corresponding sound. This innovative and user friendly instrument from iK gives you unprecedented access to expand and customize your audio interface. No matter what you need the most from your keyboard, iK Multimedia iRig Keys can give it to you.
It is ideal for all styles of live performance. Whether you want to impress your audience, or entertain them, this product will deliver powerful, creative results. All you need to do is load the iK Multimedia software to your iPad, launch and get going. You are ready to perform anywhere and anytime.
Connectivity: USB Type-A | Protocol: USB 2.0 | Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz
The new AudioBox USB audio interface can capture up to 96kbps MP3-rate audio and support Mac OS X operation. Transform your desktop or notebook PC into a true music studio by integrating your sound card with this convenient device. Capture professional sounding audio right from your computer or laptop with this easy-to-use, high-quality microphone and audio interface that's perfect for beginners as well as professionals.
Ideal for both audio recordings and mixing, the AudioBox USB comes with a wide range of exciting recording features including pan/tilt head movement, full-range monitoring, low-level monitoring, and a large input selection for monitoring multiple inputs. With its high-quality microphone and mixer feature, the AudioBox USB can capture high-quality voice and playback it back in other applications, including the Apple iMovie. Also with its ultra-portable design and high-quality audio interface, the AudioBox USB is a perfect solution for your home studio setup or professional gigging.
| IMAGE | NAME | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Steinberg UR-RT4
Reliable
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CHECK PRICE → | |
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IK Multimedia iRig
Easy to use
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CHECK PRICE → | |
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Apogee Jam Plus
Portable
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CHECK PRICE → |
While there’s a large number of audio interfaces that can be paired with iPads via USB thanks to the Class Compliant mode, some of them demand specific accessories to operate properly and can be quite a hassle to set up. Luckily, the market also offers a solid selection of models that can be connected straight to the iPad thanks to being supplied with the brand’s proprietary Lightning Connectors. They’re all the perfect contenders for the best iPad audio interface title if you don’t want to deal with adapters. It’s also worth remembering that older iPad models come with 30pin connectors so account for that when browsing through different options.
Such audio interfaces come with regular USB drivers and are equally well suited to be used with various OS, including iOS. Even though the convenience of seamlessly switching from your iPad to PC and vice versa is terrific, it does mean you also have to purchase a USB Camera adapter for attaching the lightning interface to the tablet. The two most popular accessory types include the Lightning to USB Camera Adapter and the iPad Camera Connection Kit (used for older models with 30pin inputs).
Not that long ago, Apple released the Lightning to USB3.0 Camera Adapter and while it costs more, it has the advantage of letting you recharge the iPad via USB, which isn’t the case with the previous two adapters.
If you want to record vocals and musical instruments, it’s advised to get an interface with both 1/4” and XLR ports. Remember that electric guitars and basses need a higher impedance than regular line-level instruments despite sharing the same 1/4” input. Keep an eye out for switches marked “Instrument” or “Hi-Z” to spot models that can deal with high-impedance sources properly.
You can get around that issue by purchasing a DI Box and using it for connecting the sound source to the interface. Another factor you have to consider when picking the best iPad audio interface is that condenser mics require 48V phantom power support to function. Select models also let you add up to 8 additional tracks using a dedicated ADAT audio interface.
Many modern audio interfaces are supplied with mic preamps that are identical to the ones included in more expensive models. As a result, you get to enjoy high audio quality even if you go with a budget product. If you’re interested in reputable preamps, such manufacturers as Focusrite, Audient, and Yamaha sell audio interfaces that offer amazing sound recording quality while being fully compatible with iPads.
