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When it comes to immersive audio, there’s a lot to consider: software, speakers, monitor calibration tools, and of course, an audio interface at the center of it all. But what exactly does an interface need to support an immersive mixing system? Ultimately, it depends on your needs, budget, and space, but the short answer is plenty of outputs to support your speaker array, and ideally, some integrated software support for immersive mixing.
If you’re interested in learning more about what it takes to get started with immersive audio, check out our blog post, "Upgrading Your Studio For Immersive Mixing," for a primer on everything you need to know. But if you’re ready to choose which interface will be at the core of your next immersive audio upgrade, then keep scrolling for our list of the best audio interfaces for immersive mixing.
Choosing the right audio interface for immersive mixing starts with understanding your needs, as systems can range from entry-level 5.1.2 setups to expansive 11.1.6 configurations.
A 5.1.2 system is a good starting point for newcomers and requires an audio interface with at least eight outputs, but if you want to create immersive mixes professionally or work in Dolby Atmos, you’ll need at least a 7.1.4 system and an interface with 12 or more outputs.
Larger arrays, such as 9.1.4, 9.1.6, and 11.1.6 configurations, are designed for big rooms and far-field listening environments like dub stages and cinemas. For these large-scale systems, you’ll need an interface with 14 or more outputs.
Ideally, your interface will have enough analog outputs to support your desired system. If not, you can connect the digital outputs (like ADAT or Ethernet) to a separate interface or converter that feeds your monitors.
In this blog, we’ll mostly focus on interfaces with at least 12 analog outputs to support a 7.1.4 system, with a few noted exceptions. Let’s get started!
Optimized for smaller rooms and tighter budgets, the MTRX Studio is a streamlined solution for immersive mixing with all the I/O, monitoring, and routing you need in one box. It offers 18 channels of analog I/O (expandable via Dante and ADAT), and an ultra-low-latency 256 x 32 summing mixer for mixing and monitoring immersive projects.
With SPQ speaker calibration built directly into the interface and optional Sonarworks SoundID Reference integration, you can import room correction profiles from stereo up to 9.1.6 right into DADman, instantly optimizing your system for seamless translation. Plus, if you're running Pro Tools HDX, the DigiLink connection lets you feed the Dolby Atmos Renderer while keeping your DSP cores free for plug-ins, which can be a lifesaver when working on demanding immersive sessions.
While the MTRX Studio is ideal for smaller immersive setups, the MTRX II is tailor-made for multi-room facilities and complex studios. With a massive 4,096 x 4,096-channel router, up to 384 channels of low-latency I/O, and onboard DigiLink, Dante, and MADI I/O connectivity, the MTRX II is the most comprehensive solution available for immersive audio with Pro Tools Ultimate and Pro Tools HDX.
Its 512 x 64 summing mixer supports full theatrical Atmos configurations, letting you connect multi-card HDX systems or multiple workstations to a single interface, route audio to the Renderer without giving up any HDX DSP headroom, and control playback, stems, and monitoring across the whole setup from one place.
If you love the flexibility of the Avid MTRX II but aren’t using Pro Tools, be sure to check out the DAD AX64. This versatile and modular multi-format audio interface holds up to eight analog cards and includes a pre-installed DADlink module for connection to DADlink-compatible hardware units. Whether you run Logic Pro, Nuendo, Cubase, Ableton Live, Digital Performer, or any other DAW, the DAD AX64 is a solid choice.
All of Antelope Audio's immersive-enabled interfaces are optimized for different workflows, with the Orion 32+ Gen 4 designed for immersive audio production and post-production setups. Like all Antelope interfaces, the Orion 32+ Gen4 features the brand’s industry-leading converters and rock-solid clocking technology, but the real draw for immersive setups is its 34 analog outputs, including 32 outputs via DB25, and dedicated stereo monitoring outputs.
However, it’s worth noting that you’ll need to purchase a separate upgrade license (included free with Antelope’s MRC Multi Channel Remote Controller) to use the Orion 32+ Gen4’s immersive audio monitoring system. But honestly, if you’re planning to use an Antelope interface in your immersive setup, you’re probably going to want to pick up an MRC controller anyway.
Built for large-format immersive rooms, the Galaxy 64 Synergy Core delivers massive I/O and rock-solid synchronization in a compact 2U interface. With 64 channels of pristine conversion, built-in Dante networking, and deep routing control, it can easily handle complex Atmos speaker layouts without external gear. Powerful onboard DSP keeps latency low and your computer workload light, making it a reliable option for demanding immersive mixes. Plus, dedicated HDX I/O makes it easy to interface with Pro Tools.
If you love everything about the Galaxy 64 but don’t need the additional outputs for outboard gear or headphone monitoring, the Galaxy 32 is a great 32-channel alternative. While the Galaxy 64 is ideal for large recording and post-production facilities utilizing multi-channel monitoring, the smaller Galaxy 32 is better suited for traditional post-production setups.
Both the Galaxy 64 and Galaxy offer built-in multichannel monitoring functionality, meaning you don’t need the MRC to unlock immersive workflows, although it does still streamline the system to have a dedicated immersive monitoring controller on your desktop.
The Orion Studio Synergy Core is a strong choice for film composers, producers, and mixing engineers who want a single interface that can handle both tracking and immersive mixing. You get 16 analog outputs over DB25, plus dual stereo monitor outputs that can run simultaneously or in A/B mode, along with ADAT I/O for expanding your channel count down the road. Just keep in mind that multichannel monitoring support requires the MRC hardware controller, which is sold separately or as part of a bundle with the interface.
Learn more about How to Build An Immersive Mixing Rig With Antelope Audio on our blog!
All of Universal Audio’s rackmount Apollo interfaces support surround mixing, but the x16 and x16D are the only models with enough analog outputs for full immersive setups. With 16 outputs over DB-25 and dual XLR monitor outputs, they both support systems up to 9.1.6. UA’s optional Apollo Monitor Correction add-on allows you to apply Sonarworks SoundID Reference profiles directly on the interface’s DSP, instantly optimizing any system by eliminating room-induced coloration.
The x16 works great for smaller and mid-sized studios, but if you're planning to tie into a larger facility or want the flexibility of audio-over-IP, the x16D is the perfect solution thanks to its Dante connectivity.
Fully customizable and available in several preconfigured setups, the Symphony I/O Mk II adapts easily to immersive workflows of any size. With four base I/O configurations expandable up to 32×32 channels per unit, it lets you configure and control up to 32 speaker outputs for Dolby Atmos and other immersive formats. You can create up to 16 Monitor Workflows and instantly switch between them, making it easy to reconfigure your monitoring system with the press of a button. When paired with Logic Pro 10.7, getting started with Dolby Atmos is truly plug-and-play.
If you’re looking for a solid entry point into immersive mixing and don’t need the full output count of Symphony I/O, Apogee’s Symphony Studio Series is a more compact and affordable option. The Symphony Studio 8x16 supports immersive systems up to 9.1.6 with eight pristine mic preamps for recording, while the Symphony Studio 2x12 supports up to 7.1.4 and includes two preamps for overdubs and simple stereo work.
Both models feature Apogee’s industry-leading AD/DA conversion and powerful output DSP, including Room EQ, Bass Management, and Speaker Delay to help you optimize your mixing space. And if you’re looking to start mixing right out of the box, both the 8x16 and 2x12 interfaces are also available in bundles with IK Multimedia iLoud Series studio monitors.
The world’s first USB-C audio interface and monitor controller built specifically for immersive mixing, ORIA supports formats up to Dolby Atmos 9.1.6 in a single, streamlined box. Advanced Speaker Processing lets you build and recall calibration profiles, while optional Sonarworks SoundID integration offers fast, reliable room tuning.
With 16 balanced analog outputs, AES, ADAT, external clocking, and optional Dante connectivity for networked audio systems, ORIA offers plenty of I/O for serious immersive setups. Plus, the interface talks directly to the Dolby Atmos Renderer, so you can check your mix across different monitoring formats on the fly, while the Profiles feature lets you switch up your physical setups in an instant.
The AudioFuse 16Rig is a professional interface that combines massive connectivity with flexible configurations, making it a strong choice for immersive mixing. With 16 analog inputs, 12 analog outputs, and dual ADAT I/O with Word Clock sync, the AudioFuse 16Rig has enough outputs to run a full 7.1.4 immersive rig straight out of the box with no additional gear required. Expanding to a 9.1.6 Dolby Atmos setup is straightforward too, as the ADAT ports let you add up to 16 more channels.
Throw in class-leading 24-bit AD/DA converters and Arturia's AudioFuse Control Center software for precise control over speaker volume, time alignment, and bass management, and it's easy to see why the AudioFuse 16Rig has become such a popular choice for immersive mixing.
If you’re building out an immersive mixing rig and don’t plan on doing any recording, you may want to consider an AD/DA converter over a traditional audio interface. The Aurora (n) from Lynx is one of the popular models for immersive audio, and is available in a number of preconfigured designs with 16, 24, or 32 analog outputs. They also have models with just eight outputs, but of course, you’ll need at least 12 outputs for a full immersive mixing rig.
This mastering-grade converter takes a modular approach, making it a smart choice if you want to build an immersive system that can evolve with your needs. It comes loaded with a Thunderbolt 3 card, Lynx's HILO Converter Technology, and SYNCHROLOCK 2 clocking, delivering pristine conversion and rock-solid syncing right out of the box. The modular design means you can swap in different LSlot cards down the line (including Dante, Pro Tools HD, or USB), without replacing the whole unit, which is a huge plus if you're not sure exactly how your studio will grow.
The MT 48 is one of the few desktop models on this list, and takes a different approach than the rackmount interfaces above. While it’s only got four analog outputs, the ADAT output provides an extra eight channels when hooked up to an external converter, giving you twelve total channels, which is just enough for a 7.1.4 system.
The main outputs are for the left and right channels, while the dual Line Outputs handle the center and LFE channels, and the optical output carries the remaining eight surround and overhead channels. Best of all, if you're building a Neumann-based monitoring system, this interface pairs perfectly with the brand’s studio monitors and MA-1 calibration mic, letting you dial in your room with software that's designed to work seamlessly together.
Learn more about How to Build An Immersive Mixing Rig With Neumann on our blog!
Speaking of Neumann, the brand’s sibling company, Merging Technologies, also offers a similar setup for immersive mixing, which combines the brand’s Anubis Pro SPS interface with a HAPI Mk III converter and Sonarworks SoundID Reference for room optimization.
If you’re planning an immersive upgrade, our shortlist of interfaces is a great place to start. We realize that every studio has different needs, limitations, and budgets, and finding the right gear isn’t always simple. Fortunately, our knowledgeable Audio Consultants are here to help you every step of the way, from planning your setup and getting the best deals on gear to on-site installation and ongoing support. Reach out today and start building your ideal immersive setup!
Want to learn more about immersive mixing? Check out the blogs below for more tips.
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