Best Audio Interfaces For Home Studio (2024 Update)
Are you an aspiring musician looking to set up a home recording studio? Choosing the right audio interface is crucial for capturing high-quality recordings. But with so many options on the market, it can be tricky to know where to start.
When shopping for an audio interface, you’ll want to consider connectivity, driver stability, preamps, and conversion quality. How many inputs and outputs do you need? Will you be recording just yourself or a full band? Do you plan on doing any mobile recording? These questions will help narrow down your choices. You’ll also want an interface with solid drivers that work seamlessly with your computer and recording software.
Preamps boost your instrument signals, so channels with clean, low-noise preamps are ideal. And of course, you want an interface that can capture your sound with pristine audio conversion. Bit depth and sample rate determine resolution, so look for 24-bit/96kHz or higher.
Choosing the right audio interface may seem daunting, but having a clear idea of your needs and budget makes it much more manageable. And investing in a quality interface allows you to make pro-sounding home recordings. Ready to find your perfect match? Keep reading for our top picks!
10 Best Audio Interfaces For Home Studio
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Ideal for recording and producing music on a computer, with high-quality audio input/output capabilities.
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This product is ideal for professional-level audio recording and editing for musicians, podcasters, and content creators.
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Ideal for recording audio, music production and streaming with professional-grade sound quality.
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Ideal for high-quality audio recording and production for musicians, bands, content creators, and producers, with included software.
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The product is ideal for recording audio from a microphone or instrument to a computer through a USB connection.
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Ideal for musicians, podcasters, and producers needing high-fidelity, studio-quality recording with included software.
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The product is ideal for recording vocals, instruments and podcasts on a computer interface with professional sound quality.
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Ideal for beginner musicians or podcasters who want to improve their audio quality with a complete recording bundle.
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Ideal for recording music with high-quality sound and effects, compatible with various digital audio workstations.
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10
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The product is ideal for recording music or audio with high-quality sound and connectivity features.
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1. Presonus Audiobox 96 Audio Interface (May Vary Blue Or Black) Full
This product package is designed for those who want to start recording music straight away. It includes everything needed to begin the recording process, including a feature-packed DAW called Studio One Artist, professional studio monitors called Eris, and a LyxPro Studio-Grade Mesh Microphone Pop Filter.
The package also features zero-latency monitoring via an internal analog mixer. This allows for the recording to be monitored in real time, without any delay or lag, ensuring that the recording process is smooth and efficient.
The Studio One Artist DAW has a range of features that make it perfect for recording, mixing, and sharing music. It provides users with the ability to create high-quality recordings with ease and precision.
The Eris professional studio monitors are serious 2-way monitors that deliver exceptional sound quality. They are designed to provide accurate sound reproduction and are perfect for critical listening and mixing tasks.
The LyxPro Studio-Grade Mesh Microphone Pop Filter is an essential accessory for vocal recording. It improves vocal recording quality by eliminating harsh plosive sounds and other unwanted noise. The mesh design of the pop filter allows for clear and unobstructed sound recording, ensuring that the vocals are captured with clarity and precision.
2. Studio 24c: High-Quality Audio Interface And Software.
Introducing the Mobile-ready, bus-powered 2-in/2-out USB-C audio interface that sets a new standard in professional audio recording. This sleek and compact interface requires no external power supply, thanks to the USB-C to C and USB-C to A cables that come with it. The interface is loaded with 2 pristine XMAX-L solid-state mic preamps that capture every detail of your recordings.
With studio-grade converters, recording and playback can be done at up to 24-bit/96 kHz, ensuring that you have the highest quality of audio for your projects. The ladder-style LED monitoring feature allows you to stay on top of your recording levels, while the low-latency direct monitoring ensures that you can record and monitor in real-time.
The package includes Studio One Artist and Ableton Live Lite DAW Recording Software that provides you with all the necessary tools to create and edit your recordings with ease. Additionally, the interface comes with the Studio Magic Plug-In Suite, which has over 1,000 USD worth of computer recording software plug-ins, allowing you to enhance your recordings with a range of effects and tools.
The interface has 2 high-headroom instrument/line inputs, making it the perfect tool for recording guitar, bass, and your favorite line-level devices. It also features a high-powered headphone output that allows you to listen to your recordings with exceptional clarity.
The interface features +48V phantom power (global) that enables you to use condenser microphones for your recordings. The onboard MIDI I/O provides a standard 5-pin DIN connection to keyboards and other MIDI gear, making it a versatile tool for any recording project.
3. Presonus Audiobox 96 Audio Interface (May Vary Blue Or Black) Full
This product comes with everything you need to start recording right away, conveniently packaged in one box. With zero-latency monitoring via an internal analog mixer, you can easily track your progress as you create music. The Studio One Artist software included with this product is a feature-packed digital audio workstation that's perfect for recording, mixing, and sharing your music with others.
The design, sound quality, and performance of this product are top-of-the-line, making it ideal for multimedia creation and entertainment. The CR monitors are expertly crafted with high-quality components and professional build quality, typically only found in more expensive studio monitors. However, they are affordable and ultra-compact, making them a great choice for those who want to create professional-level music without breaking the bank.
The CR monitors deliver exceptional sound quality that will enhance any musical project. The internal analog mixer allows you to easily adjust your sound as you go, ensuring that your recordings are of the highest quality. With Studio One Artist, you'll have access to a suite of tools that will help you take your music to the next level.
4. Studio-Grade Usb Audio Interface For Creators.
The Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen is a high-performance audio interface that offers four of the best mic preamps the Scarlett range has ever seen, now with switchable Air mode to give your recordings a brighter and more open sound. It also has two high-headroom instrument inputs to plug in your guitar or bass, and eight balanced line inputs for connecting synthesizers, drum machines, and other line-level sources.
This audio interface comes equipped with four monitor outputs featuring anti-thump technology and speaker switching, allowing you to easily switch between speakers without causing any damage to your equipment. The high-performance converters enable you to record and mix at up to 24-bit/192kHz, ensuring that your recordings will have exceptional quality.
The Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen also includes a range of free software from Antares, Relab, Softube, XLN Audio, Brainworx, Splice, Focusrite, Ableton, and Avid, all available for download upon purchase and registration. Plus, for a limited time, you'll receive Fuse Audio Labs' FX plug-in Bucket-500 and VPRE-2C for free upon registration and download.
Setting up the Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen is easier than ever thanks to the included Easy Start tool. And with a three-year warranty, you can rest assured that you'll be covered no matter where you are in the world if any Focusrite hardware needs repairing or replacing due to a manufacturing fault.
Whether you're a professional musician or a hobbyist, the Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen is the perfect audio interface for your recording needs. It's the newest Scarlett interface with the best mic preamp, and it offers a recording studio package that includes a preamplifier and audio to USB connectivity. It's also compatible with the Scarlett 2nd Gen, Scarlett 2nd generation, Scarlett18i8 2nd Gen, Scarlett 3rd generation, Focusrite Scarlett third generation, and new Focusrite preamp.
5. Behringer U-Phoria Umc22 Usb Audio Interface
The 2-channel USB Audio Interface with 1 MIDAS Preamp is a top-of-the-line device designed to meet the needs of audio professionals and enthusiasts alike. This interface is equipped with a variety of features that make it an essential tool for recording, mixing, and mastering high-quality audio.
One of the standout features of this audio interface is its 1 MIDAS preamp, which provides unparalleled audio clarity and transparency. This preamp is designed to capture the nuances and subtleties of any sound source, making it ideal for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, and more.
In addition to the preamp, this interface also includes an instrument input, allowing users to connect guitars, basses, and other instruments directly to the device. This makes it easy to record high-quality audio without the need for additional equipment.
To ensure optimal performance, the 2-channel USB Audio Interface with 1 MIDAS Preamp also includes phantom power, which provides the necessary voltage to power condenser microphones. This feature is essential for anyone looking to capture the full range and richness of their vocal performances.
Finally, this interface is capable of recording audio at a resolution of 48kHz, ensuring that every detail of the sound is captured with precision and accuracy. This makes it ideal for a wide range of applications, from recording music to podcasting and more.
6. Scarlett Solo: The Ultimate Recording Companion
The Scarlett Solo is the ultimate tool for achieving pro-level recordings. Thanks to the finest pre-amps in the Scarlett range, your recordings will have a brighter and more open sound. Plus, the switchable Air mode provides extra clarity to your vocals, ensuring your recordings are of the highest quality.
Say goodbye to sacrificing your tone when recording guitar and basses. The Scarlett Solo's high headroom instrument input allows you to capture your instruments in all their glory without any unwanted clipping or distortion. Gain Halos provide visual feedback, letting you know when you're at the perfect level.
Record and mix with ease at up to 24-bit/192kHz thanks to Scarlett's high-performance converters. Your recordings will maintain their sonic qualities, allowing you to sound like your favorite artists. Plus, with two low-noise balanced outputs, you can hear all the details of your tracks and music from Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.
Getting started with the Scarlett Solo has never been easier, thanks to the online tool, Easy Start. Whether you're looking to record or playback audio, the tool will guide you through the process. Plus, with a three-year warranty, you can rest assured that you're covered in case of any manufacturing faults.
The Scarlett Solo doesn't just come with the hardware; it also includes sound content and software from our favorite industry partners. Create studio-quality vocals, powerful guitars, luscious keys, and huge drums with the tools you need to start recording right away.
7. Presonus Audiobox Itwo
The AudioBox iTwo USB 2.0 audio interface Bundle is the perfect solution for recording and producing high-quality audio on-the-go. This bundle includes everything you need to create professional-level recordings in any location.
Firstly, the AudioBox iTwo USB 2.0 audio interface is a versatile and compact device that allows you to connect your microphone, guitar, and other instruments to your computer or tablet. With its high-performance Class A preamps, you can capture crystal-clear recordings with ease. The interface also features MIDI I/O, making it a great tool for electronic music producers.
In addition to the interface, the bundle includes a M7 condenser microphone that delivers exceptional sound quality. This microphone is perfect for recording vocals, acoustic guitars, and other acoustic instruments. It features a cardioid polar pattern that captures sound from the front while rejecting background noise, ensuring clean and clear recordings.
The bundle also includes a pair of HD7 headphones that provide excellent sound quality and comfortable wear for extended recording sessions. The headphones offer powerful bass and crisp treble, allowing you to hear every detail of your recordings.
To top it off, this bundle comes with over $1000 worth of software, including Studio One Artist, Studio Magic, and Capture Duo. Studio One Artist is a powerful digital audio workstation that allows you to record, edit, and mix your music with ease. Studio Magic offers a suite of plugins and virtual instruments that can enhance your recordings, while Capture Duo is a simple yet powerful app that allows you to record audio on your iPad.
8. Complete Recording Bundle: Scarlett Solo Studio 3rd Gen
The Focusrite Scarlett Solo Studio 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface bundle is an all-in-one recording solution designed for aspiring musicians and content creators. The package includes a Scarlett Solo audio interface, microphone suspension boom scissor arm with 5/8-27 threading, basic microphone shock mount, and pop filter.
The Scarlett Solo audio interface boasts a single upgraded third-generation Scarlett mic preamp with switchable Air mode. This feature enhances vocal and acoustic recordings by providing a brighter and more open sound. The instrument input is high-headroom and ensures no clipping or unwanted distortion, making it easy to plug in your guitar or bass and start recording right away. The intuitive Gain Halo metering keeps an eye on your input level, providing you with a clear indication of your recording levels at all times.
The Scarlett Solo also comes equipped with high-performance 24-bit/192kHz AD-DA converters, guaranteeing professional sound quality throughout the third-generation range. The balanced outputs of the Scarlett Solo are hum-free when connecting studio monitors with balanced inputs, ensuring pristine audio playback.
Additionally, the Scarlett Solo bundle includes a free 3-month Splice Sounds subscription. Focusrite has partnered with Splice to provide 3rd Gen Interface owners with access to millions of high-quality, royalty-free one-shots, loops, and presets from your favorite producers, sound designers, and artists. With new releases added daily, you'll never run out of creative inspiration.
9. Scarlett Solo Studio With Waves Plugins Bundle
Introducing the ultimate audio recording bundle – the Focusrite Solo (3rd Gen) Audio Interface bundle. This bundle is packed with amazing features and exclusive audio plugins that will take your recordings to the next level.
One of the standout features of this bundle is the Waves Musicians 2 plugin, which includes 6 indispensable audio plugins: Renaissance Compressor, Renaissance Equalizer, Renaissance Vox, Renaissance Axx, Doubler, and SuperTap. These plugins will allow you to fine-tune your audio recordings to sound exactly how you want them to.
In addition to the Waves Musicians 2 plugin, the bundle also includes a range of other software tools to help you create the perfect sound. The Avid Pro Tools | First Focusrite Creative Pack, Ableton Live Lite, XLN Audio Addictive Keys, Softube Time and Tone Bundle, Focusrite Red Plug-in Suite, and Focusrite Plug-in Collective are all included in this package.
The Scarlett mic preamp included in this bundle is the best performing preamp in the Scarlett range. With Air technology, you can easily mic up guitars or record vocals with stunning clarity. This preamp will make your recordings sound professional and polished.
The bundle also includes the CM25 MkIII condenser microphone and HP60 MkIII professional closed-back headphones. These accessories will ensure that you have everything you need to get started with recording right out of the box. Plus, with the included XLR and USB cables, you can connect your equipment to your computer seamlessly.
10. Presonus Audiobox 96
The all-in-one solution for home recording and production is now available in a single purchase. The AudioBox USB 96 audio/MIDI interface, designed to record both vocals and instruments, is built for durability and longevity. The HD7 headphones are designed to mix, monitor, and produce sound without disturbing anyone in your vicinity.
Moreover, the bundle includes Studio One Artist and Studio Magic, a professional audio software package priced at over $1000 USD. These software programs allow users to create, edit, and produce high-quality audio recordings from the comfort of their own home.
The M7 large-diaphragm studio condenser microphone is an excellent choice for recording vocals, acoustic guitar, and other general sources. It comes with a mic-stand adapter and a cloth carry bag, making it easy to transport and set up.
With this bundle, users can easily record and produce high-quality audio recordings without the need for additional equipment or software. The AudioBox USB 96 audio/MIDI interface, HD7 headphones, Studio One Artist, and Studio Magic all work together seamlessly to ensure a smooth recording and production experience.
This bundle is perfect for musicians, podcasters, and anyone looking to record and produce high-quality audio from the comfort of their own home.
Best Audio Interfaces For Home Studio FAQs
Are there any budget-friendly audio interfaces that still offer high-quality sound for home recording?
Yes, there are several budget-friendly audio interfaces that offer high-quality sound for home recording. One such option is the Focusrite Scarlett Solo, which is a popular choice among beginner and intermediate level home recording enthusiasts. It offers a single XLR input for recording vocals or instruments, and an instrument input for recording guitar or bass. The Scarlett Solo also comes with a preamp and 24-bit/192kHz converters for high-quality sound.
Another option is the Behringer U-Phoria UM2, which is a compact and affordable audio interface that offers a single XLR input, as well as a 1/4-inch instrument input. It also comes with a preamp and 48V phantom power for condenser microphones.
Lastly, the PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is a popular choice for those on a budget. It offers two XLR inputs with preamps and 48V phantom power, as well as MIDI input/output for connecting keyboards or other MIDI devices. The AudioBox USB 96 also comes with Studio One Artist software for recording and mixing.
Overall, these audio interfaces offer high-quality sound and functionality at an affordable price point, making them great options for home recording on a budget.
Are there any particular types of audio interfaces that are better suited to specific genres of music or recording techniques?
When it comes to audio interfaces, there are a variety of models available on the market that cater to different recording needs and preferences. However, there isn't necessarily an audio interface that is better suited to a specific genre of music or recording technique.
That being said, some audio interfaces may have features that are more useful for certain recording scenarios. For example, an interface with multiple microphone inputs and built-in preamps may be ideal for recording a live band or orchestra, whereas an interface with a high-quality headphone amplifier may be more suited for recording and mixing electronic music.
It's also worth considering the connectivity options of an audio interface. If you plan on recording with a lot of analog gear, you may want to look for an interface with plenty of inputs and outputs. Alternatively, if you prefer to work entirely 'in the box' with virtual instruments and plugins, a more basic interface with fewer inputs may suffice.
Ultimately, the best audio interface for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences, as well as your budget. It's always a good idea to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase.
Can you recommend any specific audio interfaces that are ideal for beginners just starting out with home recording?
Absolutely! As a beginner, you want an audio interface that is easy to use, affordable, and offers good sound quality. Here are a few great options:
1. Focusrite Scarlett Solo: This is a popular choice for beginners, as it offers a single XLR input for a microphone and a separate input for a guitar or bass. It also comes with a free version of Ableton Live Lite and Pro Tools First.
2. PreSonus AudioBox USB 96: This is another affordable option that offers two XLR inputs for microphones and a MIDI input for connecting a keyboard or controller. It also comes with Studio One Artist recording software.
3. Behringer U-Phoria UM2: This is a budget-friendly option that offers a single XLR input for a microphone and a separate input for a guitar or bass. It also comes with a free version of Tracktion DAW software.
All of these options are great for beginners and offer good sound quality. Ultimately, the best audio interface for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.
How important is latency and buffer size when choosing an audio interface for home studio use?
Latency and buffer size are two critical factors to consider when selecting an audio interface for home studio use. Latency is the delay between the time an audio signal enters the interface and the time it is processed and outputted. Low latency is essential for recording, monitoring, and mixing audio in real-time. If the latency is too high, it can be challenging to play instruments and record vocals in sync with the backing track.
On the other hand, buffer size determines the amount of audio data that can be processed at once. A larger buffer size means more data can be processed, but it also increases the latency. Therefore, the ideal buffer size should balance low latency and adequate data processing.
For home studio use, low latency and small buffer size are desirable. However, a high-quality interface with a powerful processor can handle lower buffer sizes with minimal latency. It is essential to choose an audio interface that meets your specific needs and can handle the workload of your recording projects.
What are some common mistakes that people make when choosing an audio interface for their home studio, and how can you avoid them?
One of the most common mistakes that people make when choosing an audio interface for their home studio is not considering their specific needs. It's important to think about what you will be using the interface for, how many inputs and outputs you need, and what kind of connections you require. For example, if you plan on recording multiple instruments or using external hardware processors, you will need an interface with multiple inputs and outputs.
Another mistake people make is not paying attention to the quality of the preamps. Preamps amplify the audio signal from your microphone or instrument, and can greatly affect the overall sound quality of your recordings. It's important to choose an interface with high-quality preamps to ensure clear and accurate recordings.
Lastly, people often overlook the importance of compatibility with their computer and software. Make sure to check if the interface is compatible with your computer's operating system and the digital audio workstation (DAW) software you plan to use.
To avoid these mistakes, take the time to research and compare different options, read reviews from other users, and consider consulting with a professional audio engineer or music producer for their recommendations.
What are the benefits of having multiple audio inputs and outputs on your interface, and how many do you really need?
Having multiple audio inputs and outputs on your interface can provide various benefits to your recording and production setup. Firstly, it allows you to connect multiple instruments or microphones simultaneously, which is particularly useful for recording live performances or multiple musicians at once. This can save time and effort as you won't have to keep unplugging and plugging in different instruments or microphones.
Secondly, having multiple outputs can enable you to send different audio signals to different monitoring speakers or headphones, which can be helpful for mixing and mastering. For instance, you can use one output to monitor the low frequencies and another output to monitor the high frequencies, giving you a more accurate representation of the mix.
Thirdly, having several inputs and outputs can also provide flexibility in routing audio signals to various outboard gear or effects processors. This can be beneficial for adding effects or processing to specific tracks or groups of tracks.
The number of inputs and outputs you need depends on your specific recording and production needs. If you only record one instrument or voice at a time, then a single input may suffice. However, if you record multiple instruments or voices simultaneously, you may need four or more inputs. Similarly, if you only use headphones for monitoring, then a single output may suffice, but if you use multiple sets of speakers or headphones for different purposes, then you may need two or more outputs. Ultimately, it's best to assess your specific needs and choose an interface that provides the necessary number of inputs and outputs for your setup.
What are the key features to look for in an audio interface for home studio use, such as input/output options and compatibility with different software programs?
When choosing an audio interface for home studio use, there are several key features to look for to ensure that you are getting the best device for your needs. Firstly, it is important to consider the number and type of inputs and outputs that the audio interface offers. This will depend on the type of recording you plan to do, but a good starting point is to look for interfaces with at least two XLR inputs for microphones, as well as multiple line-level inputs and outputs for instruments and other gear.
Another important consideration is compatibility with different software programs. Most audio interfaces will come with their own software drivers and may be specifically designed to work with certain recording software programs. Therefore, it is important to check that the audio interface you choose is compatible with the software you plan to use.
Other key features to look for include the quality of preamps and converters, which can have a significant impact on the quality of your recordings, as well as latency performance, which will affect the responsiveness of your system. In addition, it is important to consider the size and portability of the audio interface, as well as its build quality and overall durability. By taking all of these factors into account, you can choose an audio interface that will best suit your needs and help you achieve high-quality recordings in your home studio.
What are the most important factors to consider when choosing an audio interface for a home studio?
When choosing an audio interface for a home studio, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the best possible quality for your recording needs. Firstly, you should consider the number of inputs and outputs needed for your recording setup. This will depend on the number of instruments or microphones you will be using simultaneously.
Secondly, you should consider the quality of the preamps and converters. These will have a direct impact on the sound quality of your recordings, and it's important to invest in high-quality components to ensure that your recordings are clear and accurate.
Thirdly, you should consider the connectivity options of the audio interface. USB and Thunderbolt are popular options, but you should ensure that the interface is compatible with your computer and recording software.
Lastly, you should consider your budget. While it's important to invest in quality components, you should also ensure that the audio interface is within your budget. There are many options available at different price points, so it's important to do your research and choose an interface that meets your needs and budget.
What are the top audio interface brands for home studio use?
When it comes to selecting an audio interface for your home studio, there are several brands that stand out in terms of quality, reliability, and affordability. Some of the top audio interface brands for home studio use include Focusrite, Universal Audio, PreSonus, MOTU, and Apogee.
Focusrite is a popular choice among home studio owners due to its affordable price point and high-quality preamps. Universal Audio is known for its top-of-the-line DSP processing and analog emulation technology. PreSonus offers a range of interfaces with various input and output options to suit different studio setups. MOTU is a reputable brand with a long history in the industry and a strong focus on compatibility with different software and operating systems. Apogee is a premium brand known for its excellent sound quality and sleek design.
Ultimately, the best audio interface brand for your home studio will depend on your specific needs and budget. It's important to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase to ensure that you're getting a high-quality product that will meet your needs and last for years to come.
Which audio interfaces offer the best sound quality for recording and mixing music at home?
When it comes to recording and mixing music at home, choosing the right audio interface is crucial for achieving high-quality sound. There are several brands and models available in the market, but the ones that offer the best sound quality are those that have high-quality preamps and converters.
One of the best audio interfaces for home recording and mixing is the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII. It features high-end preamps and converters that offer exceptional sound quality, as well as built-in DSP processing for real-time effects and plugins.
Another great option is the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2, which is a popular choice among home studio owners. It has high-quality preamps and converters that deliver clear and detailed sound, and it also comes with a user-friendly software package.
If you're on a budget, the PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is a great option. It offers decent sound quality with its high-quality preamps and converters, and it's also affordable and easy to use.
Ultimately, the best audio interface for recording and mixing music at home depends on your specific needs and budget. It's important to do your research and choose one that fits your requirements and preferences.
