Best Audio Interfaces Under $1000

Since the advent of the audio interface, these recording tools have come a long way. They've been beefed up with more I/O, processing power, and connectivity options than ever before while consistently getting smaller. These drastic improvements have made life easier for music makers, podcasters, and content creators at all levels.

However, one of the most important advancements in modern audio interfaces has been more attainable pricing. Brands like Focusrite, Black Lion Audio, and Universal Audio have lowered interface prices to under $300, all while maintaining exceptional recording capabilities and delivering pristine studio-grade sound quality. The barrier to entry for aspiring engineers and musicians is as low as ever, and the room for expansion after buying an interface is endless.

So what's up with this current crop of more affordable recording tools? That's the question driving our blog today as we dive into the best audio interfaces under $1000. We'll analyze some of our favorites and explore key features to help you make the right decision when it comes to your next purchase. Let's get started!

Focusrite Scarlett
Universal Audio Volt
Black Lion Audio Revolution
LEWITT CONNECT
Solid State Logic SSL 12
Apogee Duet 3
Arturia AudioFuse Studio
Audient iD44 MKII
RME Babyface Pro FS

Focusrite Scarlett Solo

It's hard to believe, but Focusrite has been making its Scarlett interface series for over 13 years. These little red metal enclosures have been countless creators' first forays into the recording world. Recently, the storied brand introduced the fourth generation of Scarletts, including the Scarlett Solo.

At just $139, the Scarlett Solo features a microphone preamp, Hi-Z instrument input, studio-grade converters with a 120dB dynamic range, onboard headphone output with independent control, and two monitor outputs. One of the most unique features of the new series of Scarletts is the Dynamic Gain Halos above each input knob. It allows you to monitor your levels in real-time and make on-the-fly adjustments on the interface if you see you're in the red.

Spec Check

Size (WxDxH): 5.6" x 3.8" x 1.8"
Weight: 0.8 lbs
I/O: 2 x 2
Analog Inputs: 1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4"
Phantom Power: Yes (1 Channel)
Analog Outputs: 2 x 1/4"
Headphone Outputs: 1 x 1/4"
Connectivity: USB Type-C
A/D Resolution: Up to 24-bit/192 kHz
Power Source: Bus-powered
Included Software: Hitmaker Expansion including Antares Auto-Tune Access, LX480 Essentials by RELAB, Sonnox VoxDoubler, Marshall Silver Jubilee 255, XLN Audio Addictive Keys Studio Grand, Native Instruments MASSIVE, XLN Addictive Drums 2, Bx_console Focusrite SC, Focusrite Red 2 and 3 Plug-In Suite, FAST Balancer, Landr (Trial)

Honorable Focusrite Scarlett Interface Mentions: Focusrite Scarlett 2i2, Focusrite Scarlett 4i4

Universal Audio Volt 176

Universal Audio has been synonymous with the interface game since the introduction of the Apollo series in 2012. In 2021, the brand launched the Volt lineup to bring some of its tech and know-how to the USB-powered interface game. Volts offer a unique combination of everything that makes the brand special, including impressive conversion and vintage gear emulations.

The Volt 176 is one of the standout interfaces in this series, as it includes some unique tools for crafting your sound right at the source. When plugging into the combo jack on the unit's front panel, you can easily deploy the preamp's Vintage button, which emulates the classic Universal Audio 610 preamp. It's perfect for warming things up on the way into your DAW.

There's also the 76 Comp. This innovative analog circuit features the punch and presence of the legendary 1176 compressor. Universal Audio makes things as easy as possible, giving you the option of selecting optimized presets for Vocals (slow attack/release), Guitar (medium attack/slow release), and Fast (aggressive compression with fast attack and release).

Volt 176 is also ready to work at any time, no matter where you are. You can plug it into your PC, Mac, iPhone, or iPad and record practice, song ideas, VO, or anything else you want to capture.

Spec Check

Size (WxDxH): 5.90" x 5.11" x 2.55"
Weight: 1.44 lbs
I/O: 1 x 2
Analog Inputs: 1 x XLR-1/4" Combo Input
Phantom Power: Yes (1 Channel)
Analog Outputs: 2 x 1/4"
Headphone Outputs: 1 x 1/4"
MIDI I/O: In/Out
Connectivity: USB Type-C
A/D Resolution: Up to 24-bit/192kHz
Power Source: Bus-powered or external power supply
Included Software: Marshall Plexi Classic Amp Bundle (Softube), Ableton Live 11 Lite, Melodyne Essential by Celemony, Ampeg SVT-VR by Plugin Alliance, LX480 Essentials by Relab Development, Virtual Drummer DEEP by UJAM, Virtual Bassist DANDY by UJAM, LABS by Spitfire Audio

Honorable Universal Audio Volt Interface Mentions: Universal Audio Volt 1, Universal Audio Volt 476, Universal Audio Volt 476P

Black Lion Audio Revolution 2x2

Black Lion Audio's latest release is the Revolution 2x2, a continuation of its Revolution interface series announced in 2023. For these interfaces, the brand has paired its new "Macro-MMC" clocking with cutting-edge converters and noise-reduction technology to offer one of the cleanest and most pristine interfaces available under $1000.

The Revolution 2x2 gives you instant access to two onboard preamps that you can connect to from the interface's front panel via two combo jacks. After plugging in, you can easily switch inputs, turn on phantom power, and adjust the gain for each preamp while also accessing the monitoring section. There are independent controls for your monitors and headphones, in addition to an Input/Playback Mix knob that blends computer playback and direct input audio.

Spec Check

Size (WxDxH): 8.75" x 6" x 1.75"
Weight: 5.5 lbs
I/O: 2 x 2
Analog Inputs: 2 x XLR-1/4" Combo Inputs
Phantom Power: Yes (2 Channels)
Analog Outputs: 2 x 1/4"
Digital Inputs: 1 x Coax S/PDIF
Digital Outputs: 1 x Coax S/PDIF
Headphone Outputs: 1 x 1/4"
Phantom Power: Yes (2 Channels)
Connectivity: USB Type-C
A/D Resolution: Up to 24-bit/192 kHz
Power Source: Bus-powered
Included Software: Studio One Artist, iZotope Elements Suite, BrainWorx BX Digital, Lindell 6X500

Honorable Black Lion Audio Interface Mention: Black Lion Audio Revolution 6x6

LEWITT CONNECT 6

Price: $299

While you may know LEWITT more for microphones, the brand introduced its first interface in 2022. The CONNECT 6 features one of the most unique design structures of any gear on our list of the best audio interfaces under $1000. Interesting looks aside, the interface is streamlined and provides some cool features.

The CONNECT 6 has two preamps with XLR/TRS combo jacks on the rear panel. This feature is pretty common for most of the interfaces that will follow on this list. However, what's unique about the CONNECT 6 is the bevy of different connectivity options for monitoring your playback. On the front panel, there are two headphone preamps, including a 1/8" and 1/4" jack, perfect for when you can't find your adapter. On the rear, there are two 1/4" jacks for studio monitors and a 1/16" output for portable stereo speakers.

Taking it even further, LEWITT has added a USB-C input/output for mobile integration, a 1/8" jack for an auxiliary device, and two power slots. One allows you to connect to an external power supply, and the other is for bus-powered operation via your computer.

Spec Check

Size (WxDxH): 8.7" x 4.3" x 1.7"
Weight: 0.9 lbs
I/O: 2 x 2
Analog Inputs: 2 x XLR-1/4" Combo Inputs, 1 x 1/8" Stereo aux input for synths or other devices
Phantom Power: Yes (2 Channels)
Analog Outputs: 2 x 1/4", 1 x 1/8"
Headphone Outputs: 2 (1 x 1/8", 1 x 1/4")
MIDI I/O: None
Connectivity: USB Type-C
A/D Resolution: Up to 24-bit/96 kHz
Power Source: Bus-powered or external power supply
Included Software: Steinberg Cubase LE, Steinberg Cubasis LE

Honorable LEWITT Interface Mention: Lewitt Audio CONNECT 2

Solid State Logic SSL 12

After scoring major hits with its two-channel SSL2 interfaces, Solid State Logic saw fans' excitement and decided to push things further with its next release. The SSL12 is a 12-input x 8-output USB bus-powered audio interface that includes a whole host of features, including a built-in talkback mic, two headphone outputs, four dedicated balanced outputs, and stunning 32-bit/192kHZ AD/DA converters.

You can't talk about the SSL 12 without discussing all of the input options. The interface features four premium Solid State Logic preamps with combo jacks, a gain range of 62 dB, and Legacy 4K mode. When you turn 4K mode on, your source will get a dose of analog color with the vibes of SSL's beloved 400 Series console. In addition, there are two Hi-Z instrument inputs and an ADAT connection to expand the channel count to up to eight channels of digital audio.

Spec Check

Size (WxDxH): 11.3" x 6.1" x 2.3"
Weight: 3 lbs
I/O: 12 x 8
Analog Inputs: 4 x XLR-1/4" Combo Inputs, 2 x 1/4"
Phantom Power: Yes (Four Channels)
Digital Inputs: 1 x Optical Toslink (ADAT)
Analog Outputs: 4 x 1/4"
Headphone Outputs: 2 x 1/4"
MIDI I/O: In/Out
Connectivity: USB Type-C
A/D Resolution: Up to 32-bit/192kHz
Power Source: Bus-powered
Included Software: SSL Complete (Three Month Trial), Auto-Tune Unlimited (Three Month Trial), Arcady by Output (Three Month), Perpetual license for SSL Vocalstrip 2 and Drumstrip, IK Multimedia Amplitube 5 SE, Celemony Melodyne Essential, Native Instruments Hybrid Keys and Komplete Start, Ableton Live 11 Lite, AAS Session Bundle, Loopcloud Samples

Honorable Solid State Logic Interface Mentions: Solid State Logic SSL 2 MKII, Solid State Logic SSL 2+ MKII

Apogee Duet 3

There's no doubt about it: the Duet 3 packs a massive punch for its size. As always with Apogee, the brand delivers exceptional A/D and D/A conversion and reliable digital clocking. The interface leverages nearly four decades of expertise in crafting world-class digital and analog components for premium sound quality and performance.

The latest version of the Duet is extremely sleek and has become even more streamlined. Notably, the interface now operates without needing an external power supply. The interface's redesigned fly cable lets users connect to the onboard preamps via XLR and 1/4" instrument cable and two balanced outputs for monitoring purposes. Last but not least, the onboard hardware DSP lets you use Apogee's ECS Channel Strip to record in real time with zero latency.

Spec Check

Size (WxDxH): 8.85" x 7" x 3.54"
Weight: 2 lbs
I/O: 2 x 4
Analog Inputs: 2 x XLR, 2 x 1/4"
Phantom Power: Yes (2 Channels)
Analog Outputs: 2 x 1/4"
Headphone Outputs: 1 x 1/8"
MIDI I/O: None
Connectivity: USB Type-C
A/D Resolution: Up to 24-bit/192kHz
Power Source: Bus-powered
Included Software: Symphony ECS Channel Strip

Honorable Apogee Interface Mentions: Apogee Jam X

Arturia AudioFuse Studio

To make music creation as easy as possible, Arturia has brought some creative ideas to its AudioFuse Studio interface. For example, Bluetooth streaming functionality lets you stream tracks straight into your DAW, and a built-in phono preamp for sampling vinyl records. These little tricks of the trade will make some creators' lives easier.

If you're not into extra frills, the AudioFuse Studio still has much to impress you. The interface boasts four preamps, four additional line inputs, four analog inserts, and eight digital inputs/outputs up to 96kHz. There's also a load of outputs, including two independent headphones for two different-size jacks, two pairs of speaker outputs, and two analog line outputs.

Spec Check

Size (WxDxH): 10.4" x 6.3" x 2.8"
Weight: N/A
I/O: 18 x 20
Analog Inputs: 4 x XLR-1/4" Combo Inputs, 4 x 1/4", 1 x RCA Stereo
Phantom Power: Yes (Four Channels)
Analog Outputs: 2 pairs of 1/4"
Digital Inputs: 2 x Optical Toslink (S/PDIF, ADAT), 1 x Coax
Digital Outputs: 2 x XLR-1/4" Combo, 2 x 1/4"
Headphone Outputs: 2 x 1/4", 2 x 1/8"
MIDI I/O: In/Out
Connectivity: USB Type-C
A/D Resolution: Up to 24-bit/192kHz
Power Source: Bus-powered or external power supply
Included Software: AudioFuse Creative Suite (10 plug-ins)

Audient iD44 MKII

As we move down our list of the best audio interfaces under $1000, the channel counts creep upward. The Audient iD44 MKII is no exception, as the interface boasts 20 inputs and 24 outputs, including two ADAT/SPDIF optical hookups, two JFET instrument inputs, and four preamps. These mic preamps are the same as Audient's ASP8024-HE recording console, meaning you can expect warmth while retaining low noise and distortion.

Much of the praise for the clean audio should go to the advancements of the iD44's ADC section. Audient's engineers pushed themselves extremely hard and improved the ADC's THD-N figure by 9 dB. More headroom is always a good thing, and with Audient's improved converters, you're sure to benefit from this while recording.

Some of our favorite features of the Audient iD44 MKII are available in the interface's monitoring section. You can assign functions to three programmable buttons like Speaker Select, Mono Sum, Cue Mix, and more. The interface's volume knob is also multi-purpose. You can control playback levels or turn it into a scroll wheel to adjust faders and write automation in your DAW.

Spec Check

Size (WxDxH): 10.9" x 6.8" x 2"
Weight: 1.5 lbs
I/O: 20 x 24
Analog Inputs: 4 x XLR-1/4" Combo Inputs, 2 x 1/4"
Phantom Power: Yes (Four Channels)
Digital Inputs: 2 x Optical (S/PDIF/ADAT)
Analog Outputs: 4 x 1/4"
Digital Outputs: 2 x Optical (S/PDIF/ADAT)
Headphone Outputs: 2 x 1/4", 1 x 1/8"
MIDI I/O: None
Connectivity: USB Type-C
A/D Resolution: Up to 24bit/96kHz
Power Source: External power supply
Included Software: Sonarworks, Retrologue 2, Strymon BigSky, Waldorf Edition 2 LE, Arcade by Output, Spitfire Audio, Cubase and Cubasis LE3, Loopcloud, M-Tron Select, Torpedo Wall of Sound

Honorable Audient Interface Mentions: Audient EVO 4, Audient iD4 MKII, Audient EVO 8, Audient iD14 MKII, Audient iD24

RME Babyface Pro FS

You know a piece of gear works well if, after 14 years, there have only been a few slight changes made to it. And that's the reputation that the RME Babyface Pro FS has built for itself. The current version of the interface has improved on its predecessor with better sound quality, mic preamps, and ultra-low latency, while becoming a fan favorite in the world of desktop recording solutions.

Regarding I/O, the Babyface is a 12-in x 12-out audio interface. It has two onboard preamps with phantom power, two instrument inputs, digital inputs available via ADAT/S/PDIF connection, two XLR outputs, and digital outputs via ADAT/S/PDIF. To ensure the highest quality of your recordings, the Babyface Pro features SteadyClock FS technology.

Spec Check