Best Audio Interface Under 200 - Midwest Retro Audio

Table of Contents

Introduction

In the world of music production, having a reliable audio interface is crucial. It serves as the bridge between your computer and your instruments or microphones, allowing you to record and monitor your audio with high quality and low latency. However, not everyone has the budget to splurge on expensive audio interfaces. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best audio interfaces under $200, so you can get the most bang for your buck without sacrificing quality.

Top 5 Audio Interfaces Under $200 for Home Recording

When it comes to home recording, having a reliable audio interface is essential. An audio interface is a device that connects your instruments or microphones to your computer, allowing you to record and produce high-quality audio. However, with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to find the best audio interface under $200. In this article, we will be discussing the top 5 audio interfaces under $200 for home recording.

1. Focusrite Scarlett Solo (3rd Gen)

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo (3rd Gen) is a popular choice for home recording enthusiasts. It features a single XLR input for microphones and a 1/4 inch input for instruments. The Scarlett Solo also comes with a headphone output and a direct monitor switch, allowing you to hear your recordings in real-time. Additionally, it comes with a free copy of Ableton Live Lite and Pro Tools First, making it an excellent value for its price.

2. Behringer U-Phoria UM2

The Behringer U-Phoria UM2 is another great option for those on a budget. It features a single XLR input for microphones and a 1/4 inch input for instruments. The UM2 also comes with a headphone output and a direct monitor switch. While it may not have as many features as some of the other audio interfaces on this list, it is a reliable and affordable option for home recording.

3. PreSonus AudioBox USB 96

The PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is a versatile audio interface that offers two XLR inputs for microphones and two 1/4 inch inputs for instruments. It also comes with a headphone output and a direct monitor switch. The AudioBox USB 96 also includes a free copy of Studio One Artist, a powerful digital audio workstation. While it may be slightly more expensive than some of the other options on this list, it offers more features and flexibility.

4. M-Audio M-Track Solo

The M-Audio M-Track Solo is a compact and affordable audio interface that offers a single XLR input for microphones and a 1/4 inch input for instruments. It also comes with a headphone output and a direct monitor switch. The M-Track Solo is compatible with both Mac and PC and comes with a free copy of Pro Tools First. While it may not have as many features as some of the other options on this list, it is a reliable and affordable option for home recording.

5. Mackie Onyx Artist 1-2

The Mackie Onyx Artist 1-2 is a high-quality audio interface that offers a single XLR input for microphones and a 1/4 inch input for instruments. It also comes with a headphone output and a direct monitor switch. The Onyx Artist 1-2 features Mackie’s renowned Onyx mic preamp, which provides high-quality sound and low noise. It also comes with a free copy of Tracktion T7 DAW software, making it an excellent value for its price.

In conclusion, finding the best audio interface under $200 for home recording can be a daunting task. However, the options listed above are all reliable and affordable choices that offer a range of features and flexibility. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned home recording enthusiast, these audio interfaces are sure to meet your needs and help you produce high-quality recordings.

Affordable Audio Interfaces for Podcasting and Streaming

When it comes to podcasting and streaming, having a reliable audio interface is crucial. An audio interface is a device that connects your microphone and other audio equipment to your computer, allowing you to record and stream high-quality audio. However, with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to find the best audio interface under $200. In this article, we will explore some of the most affordable audio interfaces for podcasting and streaming.

First on our list is the Behringer U-Phoria UM2. This compact and affordable audio interface is perfect for beginners who are just starting with podcasting or streaming. It features a single XLR input for your microphone and a 1/4 inch input for your guitar or other instruments. The UM2 also has a 48V phantom power supply, which is essential for condenser microphones. The device is compatible with both Mac and Windows computers and comes with a free audio recording and editing software.

Next up is the Focusrite Scarlett Solo. This audio interface is a step up from the Behringer UM2 and is perfect for those who want to take their podcasting or streaming to the next level. The Scarlett Solo features a single XLR input with a 48V phantom power supply and a 1/4 inch input for your guitar or other instruments. It also has a headphone output with a volume control and a direct monitor switch, allowing you to hear your audio in real-time without any latency. The Scarlett Solo is compatible with both Mac and Windows computers and comes with a free recording software.

If you’re looking for an audio interface with more inputs, the PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is an excellent choice. This device features two XLR inputs with 48V phantom power supplies and two 1/4 inch inputs for your guitar or other instruments. It also has a headphone output with a volume control and a direct monitor switch. The AudioBox USB 96 is compatible with both Mac and Windows computers and comes with a free recording software.

Another great option is the M-Audio M-Track Solo. This audio interface features a single XLR input with a 48V phantom power supply and a 1/4 inch input for your guitar or other instruments. It also has a headphone output with a volume control and a direct monitor switch. The M-Track Solo is compatible with both Mac and Windows computers and comes with a free recording software.

Last but not least is the Tascam US-1×2. This audio interface features a single XLR input with a 48V phantom power supply and a 1/4 inch input for your guitar or other instruments. It also has a headphone output with a volume control and a direct monitor switch. The US-1×2 is compatible with both Mac and Windows computers and comes with a free recording software.

In conclusion, finding the best audio interface under $200 for podcasting and streaming can be challenging, but there are plenty of affordable options available. The Behringer U-Phoria UM2, Focusrite Scarlett Solo, PreSonus AudioBox USB 96, M-Audio M-Track Solo, and Tascam US-1×2 are all excellent choices that offer high-quality audio recording and streaming capabilities. When choosing an audio interface, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and budget to find the best option for you.

Best Audio Interfaces for Beginner Music Producers on a Budget

As a beginner music producer, it can be challenging to find the right audio interface that fits your budget. However, with the advancement of technology, there are now several options available that offer high-quality sound at an affordable price. In this article, we will discuss the best audio interfaces under $200 that are perfect for beginner music producers on a budget.

First on our list is the Focusrite Scarlett Solo. This audio interface is a popular choice among beginner music producers due to its simplicity and affordability. It features a single XLR input for microphones and a 1/4 inch input for instruments. The Scarlett Solo also comes with a headphone output and a direct monitor switch, allowing you to hear your recordings in real-time without any latency. Additionally, it comes with a free copy of Ableton Live Lite, which is a great digital audio workstation for beginners.

Next up is the Behringer U-Phoria UM2. This audio interface is another affordable option that offers high-quality sound. It features a single XLR input for microphones and a 1/4 inch input for instruments. The UM2 also comes with a headphone output and a direct monitor switch, allowing you to hear your recordings in real-time without any latency. Additionally, it comes with a free copy of Tracktion 4, which is a great digital audio workstation for beginners.

The PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is another great option for beginner music producers on a budget. It features two XLR inputs for microphones and two 1/4 inch inputs for instruments. The AudioBox USB 96 also comes with a headphone output and a direct monitor switch, allowing you to hear your recordings in real-time without any latency. Additionally, it comes with a free copy of Studio One Artist, which is a great digital audio workstation for beginners.

The M-Audio M-Track 2X2 is another affordable option that offers high-quality sound. It features two XLR inputs for microphones and two 1/4 inch inputs for instruments. The M-Track 2X2 also comes with a headphone output and a direct monitor switch, allowing you to hear your recordings in real-time without any latency. Additionally, it comes with a free copy of Pro Tools First, which is a great digital audio workstation for beginners.

Compact and Portable Audio Interfaces for Mobile Recording

When it comes to recording audio, having a reliable 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. While there are many audio interfaces on the market, finding one that is both compact and portable can be a challenge. In this article, we will explore the best audio interfaces under $200 that are perfect for mobile recording.

First on our list is the Focusrite Scarlett Solo. This audio interface is a popular choice among musicians and podcasters alike. It features a single XLR input for your microphone and a 1/4 inch input for your instrument. The Scarlett Solo also has a headphone output and a direct monitor switch, allowing you to hear your recording in real-time without any latency. The compact size of the Scarlett Solo makes it easy to take with you on the go, and its rugged metal construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of travel.

Next up is the PreSonus AudioBox USB 96. This audio interface features two combo inputs, allowing you to connect both a microphone and an instrument at the same time. The AudioBox USB 96 also has a headphone output and a direct monitor switch, as well as MIDI input and output. The compact size of the AudioBox USB 96 makes it easy to take with you on the go, and its sturdy construction ensures that it can handle the bumps and bruises of travel.

Another great option for mobile recording is the Behringer U-Phoria UM2. This audio interface features a single XLR input for your microphone and a 1/4 inch input for your instrument. The UM2 also has a headphone output and a direct monitor switch, as well as a 48V phantom power switch for condenser microphones. The compact size of the UM2 makes it easy to take with you on the go, and its durable construction ensures that it can withstand the wear and tear of travel.

If you’re looking for an audio interface that is both compact and versatile, the Mackie Onyx Artist 1-2 is a great choice. This audio interface features two combo inputs, allowing you to connect both a microphone and an instrument at the same time. The Onyx Artist 1-2 also has a headphone output and a direct monitor switch, as well as MIDI input and output. The compact size of the Onyx Artist 1-2 makes it easy to take with you on the go, and its rugged construction ensures that it can handle the bumps and bruises of travel.

Last but not least is the Steinberg UR12. This audio interface features a single XLR input for your microphone and a 1/4 inch input for your instrument. The UR12 also has a headphone output and a direct monitor switch, as well as a 48V phantom power switch for condenser microphones. The compact size of the UR12 makes it easy to take with you on the go, and its sturdy construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of travel.

In conclusion, having a reliable audio interface is essential for mobile recording. The five audio interfaces we have discussed in this article are all under $200 and are perfect for musicians, podcasters, and anyone who needs to record audio on the go. Whether you choose the Focusrite Scarlett Solo, PreSonus AudioBox USB 96, Behringer U-Phoria UM2, Mackie Onyx Artist 1-2, or Steinberg UR12, you can be sure that you are getting a high-quality audio interface that will help you capture your best performances.

High-Quality Audio Interfaces for Professional Voiceover Work Under $200

When it comes to professional voiceover work, having a high-quality audio interface is essential. An audio interface is a device that connects your microphone to your computer, allowing you to record and edit your voiceover work with ease. However, finding the best audio interface under $200 can be a challenge. In this article, we will explore some of the top options available on the market today.

First on our list is the Focusrite Scarlett Solo. This compact and portable audio interface is perfect for voiceover work on the go. It features a single XLR input for your microphone, as well as a headphone output for monitoring your recordings. The Scarlett Solo also comes with a range of software, including Pro Tools First and Ableton Live Lite, making it a great value for the price.

Next up is the Behringer U-Phoria UM2. This budget-friendly audio interface may not have all the bells and whistles of some of the more expensive models, but it gets the job done. It features a single XLR input, as well as a 1/4 inch instrument input for recording guitar or bass. The UM2 also comes with a free download of Tracktion 4 software, which is a great option for beginners.

If you’re looking for a more versatile audio interface, the PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is a great choice. This interface features two XLR inputs, as well as MIDI input and output, making it a great option for recording vocals and instruments. The AudioBox USB 96 also comes with Studio One Artist software, which is a powerful digital audio workstation that is perfect for editing and mixing your voiceover work.

Another great option is the M-Audio M-Track 2X2. This audio interface features two XLR inputs, as well as a 1/4 inch instrument input and a headphone output. It also comes with a range of software, including Pro Tools First, Eleven Lite, and Ableton Live Lite. The M-Track 2X2 is a great choice for those who need a versatile audio interface that can handle a variety of recording situations.

Last but not least is the Tascam US-1×2. This audio interface features a single XLR input, as well as a 1/4 inch instrument input and a headphone output. It also comes with a range of software, including Cubase LE and IK Multimedia AmpliTube. The US-1×2 is a great option for those who need a simple and reliable audio interface for their voiceover work.

In conclusion, finding the best audio interface under $200 can be a challenge, but there are plenty of great options available on the market today. Whether you’re looking for a compact and portable interface or a more versatile option with multiple inputs, there is an audio interface out there that will meet your needs. So, if you’re a professional voiceover artist on a budget, be sure to check out some of the options we’ve highlighted in this article.

Q&A

1. What is an audio interface?
An audio interface is a device that connects your computer or recording equipment to your instruments, microphones, and speakers.

2. What are some features to look for in an audio interface under $200?
Some features to look for include the number of inputs and outputs, the type of connections (USB, Thunderbolt, etc.), preamp quality, and compatibility with your recording software.

3. What are some popular audio interfaces under $200?
Some popular options include the Focusrite Scarlett Solo, Behringer U-Phoria UM2, PreSonus AudioBox USB 96, and M-Audio AIR 192|4.

4. Can an audio interface improve the sound quality of my recordings?
Yes, a good quality audio interface can improve the sound quality of your recordings by providing better preamps, converters, and overall signal processing.

5. Do I need an audio interface if I am just starting out with recording?
While it is not necessary to have an audio interface when starting out, it can greatly improve the quality of your recordings and make the process easier and more efficient.

Conclusion

Conclusion: The best audio interface under $200 depends on individual needs and preferences. However, some popular options include the Focusrite Scarlett Solo, Behringer U-Phoria UM2, and PreSonus AudioBox USB 96. These interfaces offer high-quality sound, reliable performance, and user-friendly features at an affordable price point. Ultimately, it is important to research and compare different models before making a purchase to ensure that the chosen interface meets specific requirements.