Best Portable Audio Interfaces For Recording On The Go

Mobile recording technology has certainly come a long way since its inception. After all, "mobile recording" used to mean pulling up to a venue or house in a huge bus or trailer that was equipped with a console and tape machines. Today, thanks to tools from brands like Universal Audio, Antelope Audio and Focusrite, you can record a professional-sounding track from just about anywhere with a rig smaller than your laptop.

With so many pint-sized recording interfaces out there on the market, it can be tough to pick which device is right for you. Never fear, Vintage King is here to review your options. That's right, we're breaking down the best portable audio interfaces for recording on the go.

Antelope Audio Zen Tour Synergy Core
The Zen Tour is the flagship interface from the new Antelope Audio Synergy Core series. The Zen Tour combines eight analog inputs and 14 analog outputs with Antelope's industry-leading Acoustically Focused Clocking and studio-quality Synergy Core FX plug-ins. Plus, the Zen Tour includes Thunderbolt and USB connectors, making it easy to interface with any system while working on the go. And with eight line outputs and two dedicated re-amp outputs, the Zen Tour integrates seamlessly into any studio setup.

I/O: 4x XLR/Line inputs, 4x Hi-Z inputs, 2x re-amp outputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, 8x line outputs (DB25), S/PDIF in and out, ADAT in and out, 2x stereo headphone outputs
Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
Connectivity Type: Thunderbolt, USB
Included Software: Collection of 36 Synergy Core effects modeled after classic and rare analog outboard gear
Cost: $1995

Antelope Audio Zen Q Synergy Core
The Zen Q recording interface bridges the gap between the all-inclusive Zen Tour and the portable Zen Go (More on that in one second). If you're looking for a studio-quality interface with powerful DSP processing, but don't need the extra bells and whistles like DB25 connectors or re-amping outputs, the Zen Q is the way to go. It's slightly larger than the compact Zen Go, but still fits nicely on your desktop or and takes up minimal space in your carry-on bag. Those looking for a USB-powered interface should check out the Zen Q USB.

I/O: 2x XLR/Line inputs, 2x Hi-Z inputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, 2x TRS line outputs, S/PDIF in and out, ADAT input, 2x stereo headphone outputs
Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
Connectivity Type: Thunderbolt / USB
Included Software: Collection of 37 Synergy Core effects modeled after classic and rare analog outboard gear
Cost: $899

Antelope Audio Zen Go Synergy Core
As the most compact and affordable interface in the Synergy Core Series, the Zen Go is perfect for artists and producers who want to create studio-quality records on the go. With two analog inputs, four analog outputs and a pair of stereo headphone outputs, the Zen Go makes it easy to quickly capture your ideas, whether you're at home, in the studio or on the back of the tour bus.

I/O: 2x XLR/Line inputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, 2x RCA monitor outputs, S/PDIF in and out, 2x stereo headphone outputs
Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
Connectivity Type: USB-C
Included Software: Collection of 37 Synergy Core effects modeled after classic and rare analog outboard gear
Cost: $499

Apogee Symphony Desktop
The Symphony Desktop combines Apogee's iconic AD/DA converters and preamps in a compact, portable USB desktop interface. Equipped with class-leading components and cutting-edge circuit designs, Apogee Symphony Desktop delivers pristine sound quality. The intuitive touch screen controls make it easy to quickly set input and headphone levels. Best of all, you can polish your tracks to perfection using a carefully curated collection of high-quality plug-ins, including Symphony EQ, Symphony Compressor and Symphony Reverb.

I/O: 2x XLR/line inputs, 1x Hi-Z Input, 2x TRS monitor outputs, ADAT in and out, 1x headphone output
Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
Connectivity Type: USB
Included Software: Symphony EQ, Symphony Compressor, Symphony Reverb, Symphony Desktop Control application
Cost: $1495

Apogee Duet 3
In 2007, the first Apogee Duet entered the market as the new industry standard in the realm of home and mobile recording. The Duet 3 keeps the series alive in a new low-profile design, featuring studio-grade preamps, legendary AD/DA conversion and onboard hardware DSP. Pairing the Apogee Duet 3 with the new Duet Dock ($149) creates a whole new desktop experience.

Apogee Duet 3 has two inputs and four outputs, plus two world-class preamps for getting professional recordings at home or on the go. Monitor your mixes through two line-level analog outputs or use the headphone output for a dedicated headphone mix. Through the dual preamps, you can capture a pristine sound without worrying about distortion or excess noise; they’re specially designed to record even the most demanding sound sources.

I/O:  1/8" stereo headphone output, Via breakout cable: 2X 1/4" TRS Inputs, 2X Mic/Line Inputs, 2X 1/4" balanced outputs
Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
Connectivity Type: USB
Included Software: N/A
Cost: $599

Audient iD4 MKII
Audient's ID interfaces, especially the iD4 MKII, are an ideal package for desktop recording from anywhere your travels may take you. The iD4 features one Audient mic preamp, which is the same exact circuit design used for the brand's ASP8024-HE console. In addition to the console-grade preamp, this interface features an instrument input designed to replicate the input stage of a valve amplifier. Throw in the handy virtual scroll wheel, ultra low latency and premium conversion and you're ready to go.

I/O: 1x XLR/line input, 1 1/4" TS input, 1 1/4" and 1 1/8" headphone outputs, 2x 1/4" TRS monitor outputs.
Maximum Sampling Rate:96 kHz
Connectivity Type: USB-C
Included Software:Cubase LE, virtual instruments and more.
Cost: $199

Audient EVO 8
In addition to the iD series, Audient has a slightly more streamlined on-the-go interface option in the EVO 8 (and the smaller EVO 4). The main difference in these interface series is that Audient has developed a special mic pre for the EVO. This mic pre offers up clean, accurate sounds with a bit of warmth and 58 dB of gain range. The EVO 8 features four EVO mic preamps while the EVO 4 features two pres, and both interfaces have the same JFET instrument input as the iD series.

I/O: 4x XLR/Line inputs, 1 x 1/4" TS input, 4x 1/4" TRS monitor outputs and 2x 1/4" TRS headphone outputs
Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
Connectivity Type: USB-C
Included Software: Cubase LE
Cost: $199

Black Lion Audio Revolution 2x2
For years, Black Lion Audio have been modding and enhancing pro audio gear, helping audio engineers get studio-quality sound on a shoestring budget. Now, they've released their own interface, packed with all of their classic interface mods. Featuring high-end components such as Vishay, Nichicon, and Wima capacitors, and state-of-the-art “Macro-MMC” clocking technology, the Black Lion Audio Revolution delivers impressive sound quality that was previously only found in costly high-end equipment. Plus, it comes with everything you need to start creating right out of the box, including PreSonus Studio One Artist and a powerful collection of plug-ins from Izotope, Brainworx and Lindell.

I/O: 2x XLR/line inputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, S/PDIF, 1x headphone output
Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
Connectivity Type: USB
Included Software: Revolution Software Suite, including PreSonus Studio One Artist, as well as plug-ins from Izotope, Brainworx, and Lindell
Cost: $399

Focusrite Clarett+ 2Pre
Founded by Rupert Neve in 1985, Focusrite got their start building custom preamps for George Martin's console at Air studios. Now, you can capture the same iconic sound with the Focusrite Clarett+ 2Pre USB recording interface. Equipped with two Air-enabled mic preamps, the Clarett+ 2Pre delivers crystal-clear sound. Plus, it comes bundled with tons of useful software, including Ableton Live Lite, VSTs, loop packs and plug-ins for getting the most out of your recordings.

I/O: 2x XLR/line inputs, 4x TRS line outputs, MIDI in and out, ADAT input, 1x headphone output
Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
Connectivity Type: USB
Included Software: Brainworx bx_console Focusrite SC,  Focusrite Red Plug-in Suite, Focusrite Plug-in Collective, Focusrite Control
Cost: $499.99

Focusrite Scarlett 18i8
The Scarlett 18i8 is the largest desktop interface in the Scarlett series. With an impressive 18 inputs and 20 outputs, the Scarlett 18i8 has everything you need to create professional quality productions from anywhere in the world. Four world-class preamps with a switchable Air setting deliver pristine sound, while eight line inputs make it easy to connect synthesizers, drum machines and other line-level sources. ADAT and S/PDIF connectors make it easy to expand your studio as your studio grows. Best of all, the Scarlett series comes bundled with tons of powerful software so you can start creating right out of the box.

I/O: 4x XLR/line inputs, 4x TRS line inputs, 4x TRS line outputs, MIDI in and out, ADAT input, S/PDIF in and out, 2x headphone output
Maximum Sampling Rate:192 kHz
Connectivity Type: USB
Included Software: Ableton Live Lite music making software, Pro Tools | First Focusrite Creative Pack, Free 3-month Splice Sounds subscription with new Splice accounts, Focusrite Red 2 & Red 3 Plug-In Suite, A choice of 1 of 4 XLN Audio Addictive Keys virtual instruments, Softube Time & Tone Bundle, Access to the Focusrite Plug-in Collective
Cost: $419.99

Focusrite Scarlett 8i6
The Scarlett 8i6 is an 8-input, 6-output USB audio interface. It features the same world-class preamps, studio-quality converters and creative software bundle as the rest of the Scarlett series in a streamlined package. With two preamps, two headphone outputs and four channels of analog I/O, the Scarlett 8i6 is perfect for producers and artists who want to collaborate with others or work on-the-go.

I/O: 2x XLR/line inputs, 4x TRS monitor outputs, 4x TRS line outputs, MIDI in and out, S/PDIF, 2x headphone output
Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
Connectivity Type: USB
Included Software: Ableton Live Lite music making software, Pro Tools | First Focusrite Creative Pack, Free 3-month Splice Sounds subscription with new Splice accounts, Focusrite Red 2 & Red 3 Plug-In Suite, A choice of 1 of 4 XLN Audio Addictive Keys virtual instruments, Softube Time & Tone Bundle, Access to the Focusrite Plug-in Collective
Cost: $319.99

Focusrite Scarlett 4i4
The Scarlett 4i4 is an even more slimmed down-version of the Scarlett series USB interfaces, with two classic Focusrite preamps, two line inputs and four line outputs. With just one headphone output, the 4i4 is best for artists who prefer to work solo but still like to shake things up a bit with different instruments and devices.

I/O: 2x XLR/line inputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, 4x TRS line outputs, MIDI in and out, 1x headphone output
Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
Connectivity Type: USB
Included Software: Ableton Live Lite music making software, Pro Tools | First Focusrite Creative Pack, Free 3-month Splice Sounds subscription with new Splice accounts, Focusrite Red 2 & Red 3 Plug-In Suite, A choice of 1 of 4 XLN Audio Addictive Keys virtual instruments, Softube Time & Tone Bundle, Access to the Focusrite Plug-in Collective
Cost: $239.99

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
Perfect for singer/songwriters, the Scarlett 2i2 is an ultra-compact USB recording interface with two high-quality preamps. Great for recording vocals, acoustic or electric guitar and keyboards, the 2i2 makes it easy to quickly capture your ideas in the studio or on the go.

I/O: 2x XLR/Line inputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, 1x headphone output
Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
Connectivity Type: USB
Included Software: Ableton Live Lite music making software, Pro Tools | First Focusrite Creative Pack, Free 3-month Splice Sounds subscription with new Splice accounts, Focusrite Red 2 & Red 3 Plug-In Suite, A choice of 1 of 4 XLN Audio Addictive Keys virtual instruments, Softube Time & Tone Bundle, Access to the Focusrite Plug-in Collective
Cost: $169.99

Focusrite Scarlett Solo
The Focusrite Scarlett solo is the smallest interface in the Scarlett series. With one XLR input, one Hi-Z input for recording guitar, a pair of monitor outputs and a standard headphone jack for monitoring your performance, the Solo is the ultimate portable recording interface.

I/O: 1x XLR input, 1x TRS/Hi-Z input, 2x TRS monitor outputs, 1x headphone output
Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
Connectivity Type: USB
Included Software: Ableton Live Lite music making software, Pro Tools | First Focusrite Creative Pack, Free 3-month Splice Sounds subscription with new Splice accounts, Focusrite Red 2 & Red 3 Plug-In Suite, A choice of 1 of 4 XLN Audio Addictive Keys virtual instruments, Softube Time & Tone Bundle, Access to the Focusrite Plug-in Collective
Cost: $119.99

iZotope Spire Studio Gen 2

While most interfaces on this list involve connecting to a computer, the iZotope Spire allows you to record straight to the Spire iOS app on your phone or tablet. This makes recording practices or songwriting sessions extremely easy while still guaranteeing you're getting quality results. This second version of the interface includes new preamps, increased device storage and a six-month free trial to Spire Pro for iOS. Spire Pro allows you to access a fantastic post-production suite featuring the beloved iZotope Nectar and RX software.

I/O: 2 x XLR/TS inputs, 2 x headphone outputs
Maximum Sampling Rate: 48 kHz
Connectivity Type: Built-in Wi-Fi Network
Included Software: Spire iOS app, six-month free trial version of Spire Pro on iOS
Cost: $499.00

Merging Technologies Anubis Pro
Engineers can rest assured that when traveling with the Anubis Pro, they have a multi-faceted tool that can help them with a number of tasks. Record with two premium Swiss-engineered preamps, listen back to mixes with two high-quality headphone preamps and connect to any RAVENNA/AES67 networks and play your projects on systems of any size from stereo to 22.2 surround sound.

I/O: 2 x XLR/TRS inputs, 2 1/4" line inputs, 2 XLR outputs, 2 1/4" TRS outputs, 2 1/4" TRS stereo headphone outputs
Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
Connectivity Type: Ethernet
Included Software: N/A
Cost: $1899

MOTU M4
The MOTU M4 and its smaller brethren M2 are both more than capable options for recording on the go. These interfaces offer bus-powered USB-C connectivity and are equipped with ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC Technology for an incredible 120 dB dynamic range on its main outputs. MOTU has also taken great care to make monitoring your levels super easy and the interface features full-color LCD meters for all inputs and outputs.

I/O: 2 x XLR/TRS inputs, 2 x 1/4" line in, 4 x 1/4" TRS line out, 4 x RCA analog out, 1 1/4" TRS stereo headphone
Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
Connectivity Type: USB-C
Included Software: MOTU Performer Lite, Ableton Live Lite, Performer Lite and 6 GB of free loops and sample packs
Cost: $239.95

PreSonus Studio 68c
The PreSonus Studio series of USB recording interfaces offers impressive sound quality with XMAX preamps and sample rates up to 192 kHz. The Studio 68c is a 6-in, 6-out interface featuring four XLR/line inputs, four analog TRS outputs, a combo MIDI and S/PDIF connector, and a dedicated headphone output. A handy Cue Mix A/B function lets you toggle between two mixes while monitoring through headphones. All Studio series interfaces include Studio One Artist recording and production software.

I/O: 4x XLR/line inputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, 2x TRS line outputs, MIDI in and out, S/PDIF, 1x headphone output
Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
Connectivity Type: USB
Included Software: Studio One Artist recording software
Cost: $329.95

PreSonus Studio 26c
The Studio 26c is a streamlined version of the 68c with two XLR/line level inputs, two monitor outputs, two line level outputs, a headphone output and dedicated MIDI in and out ports. Ideal for DJs, mobile musicians, and electronic musicians, the 2|6c packs all of the essentials in a compact, portable interface.

I/O: 2x XLR/line inputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, 2x TRS line outputs, MIDI in and out, 1x headphone output
Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
Connectivity Type: USB
Included Software: Studio One Artist recording software
Cost: $219.95

PreSonus Studio 24c
The Studio 24c is the smallest of the PreSonus Studio series with just two XLR/line level inputs, two monitor outputs, a headphone output and dedicated MIDI in and out ports. Perfect for solo vocalists/rappers, mobile musicians, guitarists, podcasters, and live streaming, the 2|4c is one of the most affordable solutions for studio-quality sound on-the-go.

I/O: 2x XLR/line inputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, MIDI in and out, 1x headphone output
Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
Connectivity Type: USB
Included Software: Studio One Artist recording software
Cost: $169.95

PreSonus AudioBox iTwo
If you're looking for something even more portable than the Studio series, check out the PreSonus AudioBox series of USB interfaces. The AudioBox iTwo features two of PreSonus' award-winning preamps and crystal-clear converters for pristine sound. Plus, iTwo is built to travel with a compact, lightweight, all-metal chassis. Bundled together with a suite of powerful plug-ins, the AudioBox iTwo is the ultimate portable recording solution.

I/O: 2x XLR/line inputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, MIDI in and out, 1x headphone output
Maximum Sampling Rate: 96 kHz
Connectivity Type: USB
Included Software: Studio Magic Plug-in Suite including SPL Attacker, Mäag Audio EQ2, Lexicon’s MPX-i Reverb, The Eventide H910, The Eventide 2016 Stereo Room, The Brainworx bx_opto compressor, Arturia’s Analog Lab Lite
Cost: $169.95

PreSonus AudioBox iOne
The PreSonus AudioBox iOne is one of the most affordable professional recording interfaces available. In addition to all of the essential inputs and outputs, the AudioBox iOne comes bundled with the Studio Magic Plug-in Suite, including classic compressors, EQs and reverbs. Just plug in your mic or guitar and you're ready to start creating!

I/O: 1x XLR input, 1 Hi-Z input, 2x TRS monitor outputs, 1x headphone output
Maximum Sampling Rate: 96 kHz
Connectivity Type: USB
Included Software: Studio Magic Plug-in Suite including SPL Attacker, Mäag Audio EQ2, Lexicon’s MPX-i Reverb, The Eventide H910, The Eventide 2016 Stereo Room, The Brainworx bx_opto compressor, Arturia’s Analog Lab Lite
Cost: $119.95

RME Babyface Pro
In addition to stunning sound quality, the RME Babyface Pro offers impressive portability. Newly designed analog and digital circuits along with innovative energy-saving technologies enable crystal-clear sound with zero distortion. Two digitally controlled preamps provide up to 76 dB of gain for pristine recordings. In combination with an external ADAT converter, the Babyface Pro fully supports 12 analog inputs, as well as 12 outputs, making it ideal for both live and studio multi-track applications.

I/O: 2x XLR inputs, 2x Hi-Z inputs, 2x XLR monitor outputs, MIDI in, ADAT in and out, 1x 1/4" headphone output, 1x 1/8" headphone
Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
Connectivity Type: USB
Included Software: TotalMix FX, TotalMix Remote, DIGICheck, Driver Support
Cost: $949

SSL SSL2+
The SSL2+ puts the power of an SSL console on your desktop. Equipped with two SSL-designed analog microphone preamps and pristine 24-bit/192 kHz converters, the new SSL2+ delivers the classic sound of the iconic SSL 4000 console. The all-new Legacy 4K button combines characteristics of the ‘242’ and ‘292’ EQ circuits, the legendary SSL G-Series Bus Compressor and the groundbreaking SuperAnalogue preamps for a truly one-of-a-kind sound. Bundled together with the SSL Production Pack, which includes SSL Native plug-ins along with loops, samples and VSTs, you've got everything you need to start making studio-quality recordings on the go.

I/O: 2x XLR/line inputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, 4 RCA line outputs, MIDI in and out, 2x headphone output
Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
Connectivity Type: USB
Included Software: Pro Tools First, Ableton Live Lite, 1.5GB library of loops and samples from Loopcloud, Hybrid Keys, Komplete Start, SSL Native Vocalstrip 2, SSL Native Drumstrip
Cost: $299

Universal Audio Apollo x4 Heritage Edition
Universal Audio is known for its groundbreaking DSP-based plug-ins, powered by the renowned realtime UAD-2 QUAD Core processing available in nearly all Apollo series interfaces. The Apollo X4 is a 12-input, 18-output desktop recording interface with Unison mic preamps and a suite of analog-modeled plug-ins to help you capture studio-quality sound anywhere you go. Recreate the sound of your favorite Neve, API, Manley, SSL, Avalon, Helios and Universal Audio preamps in real time. The Apollo X4 is the largest of the Apollo series interfaces, with four XLR/line inputs, stereo monitor outputs, four line outputs and optical I/O to expand your setup even further.

I/O: 4x XLR/Line inputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, 4x TRS line outputs, ADAT in and out
Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
Connectivity Type: Thunderbolt
Included Software: 10 premium plug-in titles worth over $2,400 — including the full suite of UA's Teletronix, 1176, and Fairchild compressors, Helios Type 69, V76, and UA 610 Unison mic preamps, all Pultec EQs, Oxide Tape Recorder, and Pure Plate Reverb.
Cost: $2199

Universal Audio Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition
The Apollo Twin X QUAD is a slimmed-down version of the X4 with two XLR/line inputs, stereo monitor outputs, two line outputs and an optical input. It's also a bit smaller and lighter than the X4, making it ideal for working on the go.

I/O: 2x XLR/Line inputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, 2x TRS line outputs, ADAT in, 1x Hi-Z input, 1x headphone output, 4x DSP chips
Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
Connectivity Type: Thunderbolt
Included Software: 10 premium plug-in titles worth over $2,400 — including the full suite of UA's Teletronix, 1176, and Fairchild compressors, Helios Type 69, V76, and UA 610 Unison mic preamps, all Pultec EQs, Oxide Tape Recorder, and Pure Plate Reverb.
Cost: $1599

Universal Audio Apollo Twin X DUO Heritage Edition
The Apollo Twin X DUO has the exact same inputs and outputs as the Twin X QUAD mentioned above, but only features two DSP chips for real time processing. If you're looking for a solid portable recording interface but plan to mix and master on a different system, the Twin X DUO is the perfect solution.

I/O: 2x XLR/Line inputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, 2x TRS line outputs, ADAT in, 1x Hi-Z input, 1x headphone output, 2x DSP chips
Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
Connectivity Type: Thunderbolt
Included Software: 10 premium plug-in titles worth over $2,400 — including the full suite of UA's Teletronix, 1176, and Fairchild compressors, Helios Type 69, V76, and UA 610 Unison mic preamps, all Pultec EQs, Oxide Tape Recorder, and Pure Plate Reverb.
Cost: $1099

Universal Audio Apollo Solo Heritage Edition
Ideal for artists and producers working on the go, the Apollo Solo offers the same great sound and versatile processing as the other Apollo interfaces in an even more compact and portable design. With two Unison preamps, a Hi-Z input, stereo monitor outputs, a stereo headphone output and a single DSP chip for real time processing, this Thunderbolt interface offers all of the essentials for recording with studio-quality sound. There is also a USB version dubbed the Apollo Solo USB.

I/O: 2x XLR/Line inputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, 2x TRS line outputs, 1x Hi-Z input, 1x headphone output
Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
Connectivity Type: Thunderbolt (USB Option Available)
Included Software: 10 premium plug-in titles worth over $2,400 — including the full suite of UA's Teletronix, 1176, and Fairchild compressors, Helios Type 69, V76, and UA 610 Unison mic preamps, all Pultec EQs, Oxide Tape Recorder, and Pure Plate Reverb.
Cost: $699

If you have any questions about audio interfaces (small or big), we're here to help! Please contact a Vintage King Audio Consultant via email or by phone at 866.644.0160.