Table of Contents
Introduction
When it comes to recording audio, having a good audio interface is essential. However, not everyone has a large budget to spend on one. Fortunately, there are some great options available for under $100. In this article, we will explore some of the best audio interfaces for under $100.
Top 5 Audio Interfaces Under $100
When it comes to recording audio, having a good audio interface is essential. An audio interface is a device that connects your microphone or instrument to your computer, allowing you to record high-quality audio. However, not everyone has a big budget to spend on an audio interface. Luckily, there are plenty of great options available for under $100. In this article, we will be discussing the top 5 audio interfaces under $100.
1. Behringer U-Phoria UM2
The Behringer U-Phoria UM2 is a great option for those on a tight budget. It has two inputs, one for a microphone and one for an instrument, and it also has a headphone output. The UM2 has a 48V phantom power supply, which is essential for powering condenser microphones. It also has a 24-bit/48kHz resolution, which ensures high-quality recordings. The UM2 is compatible with both Mac and PC, and it comes with a free audio recording and editing software.
2. Focusrite Scarlett Solo
The Focusrite Scarlett Solo is another great option for those on a budget. It has one XLR input for a microphone and one instrument input. The Scarlett Solo has a 24-bit/192kHz resolution, which is higher than the UM2. It also has a 48V phantom power supply and a headphone output. The Scarlett Solo is compatible with both Mac and PC, and it comes with a free recording software.
3. PreSonus AudioBox USB 96
The PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is a bit more expensive than the UM2 and the Scarlett Solo, but it is still under $100. It has two XLR inputs for microphones and two instrument inputs. The AudioBox USB 96 has a 24-bit/96kHz resolution, which is still high-quality. It also has a 48V phantom power supply and a headphone output. The AudioBox USB 96 is compatible with both Mac and PC, and it comes with a free recording software.
4. M-Audio M-Track Solo
The M-Audio M-Track Solo is another great option for those on a budget. It has one XLR input for a microphone and one instrument input. The M-Track Solo has a 24-bit/48kHz resolution, which is the same as the UM2. It also has a 48V phantom power supply and a headphone output. The M-Track Solo is compatible with both Mac and PC, and it comes with a free recording software.
5. Tascam US-1×2
The Tascam US-1×2 is the most expensive option on this list, but it is still under $100. It has one XLR input for a microphone and one instrument input. The US-1×2 has a 24-bit/96kHz resolution, which is higher than the UM2 and the M-Track Solo. It also has a 48V phantom power supply and a headphone output. The US-1×2 is compatible with both Mac and PC, and it comes with a free recording software.
In conclusion, there are plenty of great audio interfaces available for under $100. The Behringer U-Phoria UM2, Focusrite Scarlett Solo, PreSonus AudioBox USB 96, M-Audio M-Track Solo, and Tascam US-1×2 are all great options for those on a budget. When choosing an audio interface, it is important to consider the number of inputs, the resolution, and the compatibility with your computer. With any of these options, you can record high-quality audio without breaking the bank.
Affordable Audio Interfaces for Home Recording
When it comes to home recording, having a good audio interface is essential. An audio interface is a device that connects your instruments or microphones to your computer, allowing you to record high-quality audio. However, not everyone has a large budget to spend on an audio interface. Luckily, there are many affordable options available on the market. In this article, we will be discussing the best audio interface for under $100.
First on our list is the Behringer U-Phoria UM2. This audio interface is a great option for those on a tight budget. It has two inputs, one for a microphone and one for an instrument, and it also has a headphone output. The UM2 has a 48V phantom power supply, which is necessary for condenser microphones. It also has a 24-bit/48kHz resolution, which ensures high-quality recordings. The UM2 is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems, making it a versatile option for any home recording setup.
Next up is the Focusrite Scarlett Solo. This audio interface is slightly more expensive than the UM2, but it is still under $100. The Scarlett Solo has one XLR input for a microphone and one instrument input. It also has a headphone output and a 48V phantom power supply. The Scarlett Solo has a 24-bit/192kHz resolution, which is higher than the UM2. This means that recordings will be even higher quality. The Scarlett Solo is also compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems.
Another great option is the PreSonus AudioBox USB 96. This audio interface has two XLR inputs for microphones and two instrument inputs. It also has a headphone output and a 48V phantom power supply. The AudioBox USB 96 has a 24-bit/96kHz resolution, which is slightly lower than the Scarlett Solo but still high quality. The AudioBox USB 96 is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems and comes with PreSonus’ Studio One Artist software.
The Mackie Onyx Artist 1-2 is another great audio interface for under $100. It has one XLR input for a microphone and one instrument input. It also has a headphone output and a 48V phantom power supply. The Onyx Artist 1-2 has a 24-bit/192kHz resolution, which is the same as the Scarlett Solo. The Onyx Artist 1-2 is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems and comes with Tracktion T7 recording software.
Last but not least is the M-Audio M-Track Solo. This audio interface has one XLR input for a microphone and one instrument input. It also has a headphone output and a 48V phantom power supply. The M-Track Solo has a 24-bit/48kHz resolution, which is slightly lower than the other options on this list. However, it is still a great option for those on a tight budget. The M-Track Solo is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems and comes with Pro Tools First recording software.
In conclusion, there are many affordable audio interfaces available for home recording. The Behringer U-Phoria UM2, Focusrite Scarlett Solo, PreSonus AudioBox USB 96, Mackie Onyx Artist 1-2, and M-Audio M-Track Solo are all great options for under $100. When choosing an audio interface, it is important to consider the number of inputs, resolution, and compatibility with your computer’s operating system. With any of these options, you can start recording high-quality audio without breaking the bank.
Best Budget Audio Interfaces for Podcasting
When it comes to podcasting, having a good audio interface is essential. It allows you to connect your microphone to your computer and record high-quality audio. However, not everyone has a big budget to spend on an audio interface. Luckily, there are some great options available for under $100.
One of the best budget audio interfaces for podcasting is the Behringer U-Phoria UM2. This compact interface is easy to use and provides high-quality audio recording. It has a single XLR input for your microphone and a 1/4 inch input for your headphones. The UM2 also has a 48V phantom power switch, which is essential if you’re using a condenser microphone. Overall, the Behringer U-Phoria UM2 is a great choice for podcasters on a budget.
Another great option is the Focusrite Scarlett Solo. This interface is a bit more expensive than the UM2, but it’s still under $100 and provides excellent value for the price. The Scarlett Solo has a single XLR input and a 1/4 inch input for your headphones. It also has a 48V phantom power switch and a direct monitor switch, which allows you to hear your microphone input without any latency. The Scarlett Solo is a popular choice among podcasters and is known for its high-quality audio recording.
If you’re looking for a budget audio interface with multiple inputs, the Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD is a great option. This interface has four XLR inputs, which is perfect if you’re recording a podcast with multiple guests. It also has a 1/4 inch input for your headphones and a 48V phantom power switch. The UMC404HD is a bit larger than the UM2 and Scarlett Solo, but it’s still compact enough to fit on your desk.
The PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is another great option for podcasters on a budget. This interface has two XLR inputs, which is perfect if you’re recording a podcast with a co-host or guest. It also has a 1/4 inch input for your headphones and a 48V phantom power switch. The AudioBox USB 96 is known for its high-quality audio recording and is a popular choice among podcasters.
Finally, the M-Audio M-Track 2X2 is a great budget audio interface for podcasting. This interface has two XLR inputs and a 1/4 inch input for your headphones. It also has a 48V phantom power switch and a direct monitor switch. The M-Track 2X2 is known for its low latency and high-quality audio recording.
In conclusion, there are some great budget audio interfaces available for podcasters. The Behringer U-Phoria UM2, Focusrite Scarlett Solo, Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD, PreSonus AudioBox USB 96, and M-Audio M-Track 2X2 are all excellent options for under $100. When choosing an audio interface, it’s important to consider your specific needs and budget. With the right audio interface, you can record high-quality audio for your podcast without breaking the bank.
Low-Cost Audio Interfaces for Music Production
When it comes to music production, having a reliable audio interface is essential. An audio interface is a device that connects your computer to your instruments, microphones, and speakers, allowing you to record and playback high-quality audio. However, not everyone has the budget to invest in a high-end audio interface. Fortunately, there are plenty of low-cost options available that still offer excellent performance. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best audio interfaces for under $100.
First on our list is the Behringer U-Phoria UM2. This compact and affordable audio interface is perfect for beginners or those on a tight budget. It features a single XLR input for microphones and a 1/4″ instrument input for guitars or basses. The UM2 also has a headphone output with volume control and a direct monitor switch for zero-latency monitoring. The interface is USB-powered, making it easy to use on the go. The UM2 comes with a free download of Tracktion software, making it a great value for the price.
Next up is the Focusrite Scarlett Solo. While slightly more expensive than the UM2, the Scarlett Solo is still an excellent choice for those looking for a budget-friendly audio interface. It features a single XLR input with a switchable phantom power option for condenser microphones. The interface also has a 1/4″ instrument input and a headphone output with volume control. The Scarlett Solo is USB-powered and comes with a free download of Ableton Live Lite and Pro Tools First.
Another great option is the PreSonus AudioBox USB 96. This interface features two combo XLR/1/4″ inputs, making it perfect for recording vocals and instruments simultaneously. The AudioBox USB 96 also has a headphone output with volume control and a direct monitor switch. The interface is USB-powered and comes with a free download of Studio One Artist software.
The M-Audio M-Track Solo is another affordable option for those on a budget. This interface features a single XLR input with phantom power and a 1/4″ instrument input. The M-Track Solo also has a headphone output with volume control and a direct monitor switch. The interface is USB-powered and comes with a free download of Pro Tools First and a selection of AIR Music Tech plugins.
Last but not least is the Tascam US-1×2. This interface features two XLR/1/4″ combo inputs with phantom power and a 1/4″ instrument input. The US-1×2 also has a headphone output with volume control and a direct monitor switch. The interface is USB-powered and comes with a free download of Cubase LE and a selection of IK Multimedia plugins.
In conclusion, there are plenty of low-cost audio interfaces available that still offer excellent performance. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these interfaces are a great way to get started with music production without breaking the bank. The Behringer U-Phoria UM2, Focusrite Scarlett Solo, PreSonus AudioBox USB 96, M-Audio M-Track Solo, and Tascam US-1×2 are all great options for under $100. With any of these interfaces, you’ll be able to record and playback high-quality audio with ease.
Value for Money Audio Interfaces for Beginners
When it comes to recording music, having a good audio interface is essential. An audio interface is a device that connects your instruments or microphones to your computer, allowing you to record high-quality audio. However, not everyone has a large budget to spend on an audio interface. Luckily, there are many great options available for under $100 that offer excellent value for money.
One of the best audio interfaces for under $100 is the Behringer U-Phoria UM2. This compact interface features two inputs, one for a microphone and one for an instrument, making it perfect for solo artists or small bands. The UM2 also has a headphone output with volume control, allowing you to monitor your recordings in real-time. The interface is compatible with both Mac and Windows computers and comes with a free audio recording and editing software.
Another great option is the Focusrite Scarlett Solo. This interface is slightly more expensive than the UM2, but it offers superior sound quality and features. The Scarlett Solo has a single XLR input for a microphone and a separate input for an instrument. It also has a headphone output with volume control and a direct monitor switch, allowing you to hear your recordings without any latency. The Scarlett Solo comes with a free version of Ableton Live Lite, a popular digital audio workstation.
If you’re looking for an audio interface with more inputs, the PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is a great choice. This interface has two XLR inputs for microphones and two line-level inputs for instruments or other audio sources. It also has a headphone output with volume control and a mix control knob, allowing you to blend the input signals with the playback from your computer. The AudioBox USB 96 comes with Studio One Artist, a powerful digital audio workstation.
For those who need even more inputs, the Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD is a four-channel audio interface that offers excellent value for money. This interface has four XLR inputs with preamps and four line-level inputs, making it perfect for recording a full band. It also has a headphone output with volume control and a mix control knob. The UMC404HD is compatible with both Mac and Windows computers and comes with a free audio recording and editing software.
Finally, the Mackie Onyx Artist 1-2 is another great audio interface for under $100. This interface has a single XLR input for a microphone and a separate input for an instrument. It also has a headphone output with volume control and a direct monitor switch. The Onyx Artist 1-2 features Mackie’s renowned Onyx preamp, which delivers high-quality sound with low noise and distortion. The interface comes with Tracktion T7, a full-featured digital audio workstation.
In conclusion, there are many great audio interfaces available for under $100 that offer excellent value for money. Whether you’re a solo artist or a full band, there’s an interface that will meet your needs. The Behringer U-Phoria UM2, Focusrite Scarlett Solo, PreSonus AudioBox USB 96, Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD, and Mackie Onyx Artist 1-2 are all great options to consider. With any of these interfaces, you’ll be able to record high-quality audio without breaking the bank.
Q&A
1. What is the best audio interface for under $100?
– The Behringer U-Phoria UM2 is a popular choice for its affordability and quality.
2. Can I record vocals with an audio interface under $100?
– Yes, many audio interfaces under $100 have microphone inputs and preamps suitable for recording vocals.
3. What are some other affordable audio interfaces under $100?
– The Focusrite Scarlett Solo, PreSonus AudioBox USB 96, and M-Audio M-Track Solo are also popular options.
4. Can I connect multiple instruments to an audio interface under $100?
– Some audio interfaces under $100 have multiple inputs, allowing you to connect multiple instruments or microphones at once.
5. Is it worth investing in a more expensive audio interface?
– It depends on your needs and budget. While more expensive audio interfaces may offer higher quality preamps and converters, there are many affordable options that can still provide great results for home recording.
Conclusion
The Behringer U-Phoria UM2 is the best audio interface for under $100. It offers high-quality audio recording and playback, with a durable and compact design. It also includes a preamp and phantom power for condenser microphones. Overall, it is a great option for beginners or those on a budget who want to improve their audio recording quality.
