Universal Audio Apollo Twin X Gen 2 Desktop Interface

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.

Universal Audio Apollo x4 Gen 2 Thunderbolt Audio Interface

Universal Audio Apollo x4 Gen 2

The Apollo x4 Gen 2 is the largest of Universal Audio’s desktop Apollo interfaces, built for serious home and project studios. It offers four Unison mic preamps, class-leading Apollo X Gen 2 conversion, plus new Gen2 features like Auto-Gain, Apollo Monitor Correction, and built-in bass management. You also get QUAD core DSP for running UAD plug-ins in real time, plus the Essentials+ bundle with over 20 classic effects to get you recording right away.

  • I/O: 4x XLR/TRS mic/line inputs with Unison, 2x Hi-Z instrument inputs, 4x TRS line outputs, monitor outputs, ADAT/SPDIF optical I/O, 2x headphone outputs
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: Thunderbolt 3
  • Included Software: Essentials+ UAD plug-in suite (20+ titles), UAD Console software, LUNA recording system
Universal Audio Apollo Twin X QUAD Gen 2 Thunderbolt Audio Interface

Universal Audio Apollo Twin X Gen 2

The Apollo Twin X is a slimmed-down version of the X4, giving you the same Gen 2 conversion and smart features in a more portable package. It's available with either QUAD- or DUO-core DSP for running UAD plug-ins, and features two Unison preamps for tracking through authentic emulations of classic analog gear.
  • I/O: 2x XLR/TRS mic/line inputs with Unison, 1x Hi-Z instrument input, 2x TRS line outputs, monitor outputs, ADAT optical input, 1x headphone output
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: Thunderbolt 3
  • Included Software: Essentials+ UAD plug-in suite (20+ titles), UAD Console software, LUNA recording system

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.
Universal Audio VOLT 476P 4-in/4-out USB 2.0 Audio Interface

Universal Audio VOLT 476P

In addition to the best-selling Apollo series, Universal Audio's VOLT line offers a simpler, more affordable way to get that classic UA sound on the go. The VOLT 476P is the largest of the bunch, with four mic preamps and four outputs packed into a sturdy, vintage-inspired metal chassis.  Each preamp features UA's Vintage Mic Preamp mode, which models the warm, full character of the iconic UA 610 tube preamp, so you can add real analog color to your recordings with the push of a button. Plus, the built-in 76 Compressor adds clarity and punch with an analog circuit based on UA's renowned 1176 compressor. Best of all, these compact interfaces are USB-C bus-powered, making them ideal for mobile recording. It's also fully compatible with iPad and iPhone, making it one of the most flexible interfaces on this list for mobile recording.
  • I/O: 4x XLR/line/Hi-Z inputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, 4x TRS line outputs, MIDI in and out, 2x headphone output
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: USB-C
  • Included Software: Ableton Live Lite, Softube Marshall Plexi Classic Amp, Softube Time and Time Bundle, Celemony Melodyne Essential, Relab LX480 Essentials, Plug-in Alliance: Ampeg SVT-VR Classic, Brainworx bx tunes, Brainworx bx masterdesk Classic, UJAM Virtual Drummer DEEP and Virtual Bassist DANDY, Spitfire LABS
Universal Audio VOLT 476 4-in/4-out USB 2.0 Audio Interface

Universal Audio VOLT 476

The VOLT 476 is a stripped-down version of the 476P with only two preamps and one headphone output. It still offers two additional line-level inputs on the back for tracking synths and other line-level signals.
  • I/O: 2x XLR/line/Hi-Z inputs, 2x line-level inputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, 4x TRS line outputs, MIDI in and out, 1x headphone output
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: USB-C
  • Included Software: Ableton Live Lite, Softube Marshall Plexi Classic Amp, Softube Time and Time Bundle, Celemony Melodyne Essential, Relab LX480 Essentials, Plug-in Alliance: Ampeg SVT-VR Classic, Brainworx bx tunes, Brainworx bx masterdesk Classic, UJAM Virtual Drummer DEEP and Virtual Bassist DANDY, Spitfire LABS
Universal Audio VOLT 276 2-in/2-out USB 2.0 Audio Interface

Universal Audio VOLT 276

If you’re looking to record but don’t need the additional analog outputs, the VOLT 276 is worth checking out. It has two front-panel XLR/line/Hi-Z inputs, just like the 476, but removes the additional line-level inputs and outputs on the back.
  • I/O: 2x XLR/line/Hi-Z inputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, MIDI in and out, 1x headphone output
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: USB-C
  • Included Software: Ableton Live Lite, Softube Marshall Plexi Classic Amp, Softube Time and Time Bundle, Celemony Melodyne Essential, Relab LX480 Essentials, Plug-in Alliance: Ampeg SVT-VR Classic, Brainworx bx tunes, Brainworx bx masterdesk Classic, UJAM Virtual Drummer DEEP and Virtual Bassist DANDY, Spitfire LABS
Universal Audio VOLT 176 1-in/2-out USB 2.0 Audio Interface

Universal Audio VOLT 176

The smallest of the 76-style VOLT interfaces, the VOLT 176 features a single front-panel XLR/line/Hi-Z input for tracking, a set of TRS monitor outputs, and a single headphone for super simple tracking projects.
  • I/O: 1x XLR/line/Hi-Z inputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, MIDI in and out, 1x headphone output
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: USB-C
  • Included Software: Ableton Live Lite, Softube Marshall Plexi Classic Amp, Softube Time and Time Bundle, Celemony Melodyne Essential, Relab LX480 Essentials, Plug-in Alliance: Ampeg SVT-VR Classic, Brainworx bx tunes, Brainworx bx masterdesk Classic, UJAM Virtual Drummer DEEP and Virtual Bassist DANDY, Spitfire LABS
Universal Audio VOLT 2 2-in/2-out USB 2.0 Audio Interface

Universal Audio VOLT 2

If the VOLT Series sounds right for you, but you don’t need the built-in 76-style analog compressor, the VOLT 2 is definitely worth checking out. It features two front-panel preamp inputs with Vintage Mode, plus all of the same software bundled with the other VOLT interfaces.
  • I/O: 2x XLR/line/Hi-Z inputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, MIDI in and out, 1x headphone output
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: USB-C
  • Included Software: Ableton Live Lite, Softube Marshall Plexi Classic Amp, Softube Time and Time Bundle, Celemony Melodyne Essential, Relab LX480 Essentials, Plug-in Alliance: Ampeg SVT-VR Classic, Brainworx bx tunes, Brainworx bx masterdesk Classic, UJAM Virtual Drummer DEEP and Virtual Bassist DANDY, Spitfire LABS
Universal Audio VOLT 1 1-in/2-out USB 2.0 Audio Interface

Universal Audio VOLT 1

The smallest and most affordable VOLT interface available, the VOLT 1 is super straightforward with a single front-panel preamp input, dedicated monitor outputs, and a built-in headphone jack, making it ideal for tracking on the go.
  • I/O: 1x XLR/line/Hi-Z inputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, MIDI in and out, 1x headphone output
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: USB-C
  • Included Software: Ableton Live Lite, Softube Marshall Plexi Classic Amp, Softube Time and Time Bundle, Celemony Melodyne Essential, Relab LX480 Essentials, Plug-in Alliance: Ampeg SVT-VR Classic, Brainworx bx tunes, Brainworx bx masterdesk Classic, UJAM Virtual Drummer DEEP and Virtual Bassist DANDY, Spitfire LABS
Solid State Logic SSL 12 USB Audio Interface

Solid State Logic SSL 12

SSL's largest desktop interface brings the legendary sound of a big studio console right to your desk. It features four SSL-designed microphone preamps that let you switch between modern clarity and the classic "Legacy 4K" vibe, inspired by the legendary 4000-series consoles. With studio-quality converters, two pro-grade headphone outputs, ADAT inputs for expanding your setup, and even a built-in talkback mic, the SSL 12 packs serious features into a portable package. And with tons of included software, you'll have everything you need to start creating right out of the box.
  • I/O: 4x XLR/Line inputs, 2x Hi-Z inputs, 4x TRS line outputs, ADAT in, MIDI in and out, 2x headphone outputs
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: USB
  • Included Software: 3-month SSL Complete subscription, 3-month Auto-Tune Unlimited subscription, 3-month Output Arcade subscription, SSL Vocalstrip 2 and Drumstrip plug-ins, IK Multimedia AmpliTube 5 SE, Celemony Melodyne Essential, Native Instruments Hybrid Keys and Komplete Start, Ableton Live 11 Lite, AAS Session Bundle, 1.5 GB Loopcloud samples
Solid State Logic SSL 2+ MKII USB Audio Interface

Solid State Logic SSL 2+ MKII

The SSL 2+ MKII is the streamlined two-channel version of the larger SSL 12, making it perfect for simple stereo and mono recording sessions wherever you're set up. It features two of SSL's microphone preamps with that handy Legacy 4K switch for adding some console-inspired grit. Plus, dual headphone outputs with independent volume controls make it easy to record with a friend or artist, letting you both dial in your own monitor mixes.
  • I/O: 2x XLR/Line inputs, 2x Hi-Z instrument inputs, 4x TRS line outputs, 2x headphone outputs, MIDI in and out
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: USB
  • Included Software: 3-month SSL Complete subscription, 3-month Auto-Tune Unlimited subscription, 3-month Output Arcade subscription, SSL Vocalstrip 2 and Drumstrip plug-ins, IK Multimedia AmpliTube 5 SE, Celemony Melodyne Essential, Native Instruments Hybrid Keys and Komplete Start, Ableton Live 11 Lite, AAS Session Bundle, 1.5 GB Loopcloud samples
Solid State Logic SSL 2 MKII USB Audio Interface

Solid State Logic SSL 2 MKII

Last but not least in the SSL desktop interface lineup, the SSL 2 MKII removes all of the bells and whistles from the 2+ interface in favor of affordability. With two preamps, two instrument inputs, and two headphone outputs, plus a suite of versatile software, the SSL 2 MKII is a solid choice for engineers and musicians working on a budget.
  • I/O: 2x XLR/Line inputs, 2x Hi-Z instrument inputs, 2x headphone outputs
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: USB
  • Included Software: 3-month SSL Complete subscription, 3-month Auto-Tune Unlimited subscription, 3-month Output Arcade subscription, SSL Vocalstrip 2 and Drumstrip plug-ins, IK Multimedia AmpliTube 5 SE, Celemony Melodyne Essential, Native Instruments Hybrid Keys and Komplete Start, Ableton Live 11 Lite, AAS Session Bundle, 1.5 GB Loopcloud samples

Antelope Audio Zen Quadro

The Antelope Audio Zen Quadro Synergy Core packs a serious punch for such a portable little box. It features class-leading AD/DA conversion and Antelope's proprietary 64-bit clocking, giving you a huge, detailed soundstage that you'd normally expect from a high-end rack unit. 

You get four crystal-clear Discrete preamps to capture your sources, plus two monitor outs and two line outputs for flexible routing. A pair of stereo headphone outputs with separate mixes makes tracking with a friend a breeze, and the dual USB-C ports let you record or stream on two devices at the same time. 

  • I/O: 4x XLR/Line inputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, 2x TRS line outputs, 2x Hi-Z input, 2x headphone output, S/PDIF
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: Dual USB-C
  • Included Software: 37 Synergy Core effects modeled after classic analog outboard gear
Antelope Audio Zenith 2 2x2 USB-C Audio Interface

Antelope Audio Zenith 2

The Antelope Audio Zenith 2 is the brand's most compact and portable interface, packing serious power into a tiny, bus-powered box. It features two ultra-clean Discrete preamps, class-leading AD/DA conversion, and Antelope's advanced 64-bit clocking technology to keep your recordings detailed and punchy.  Onboard DSP effects like the Tube-Opto Compressor, Sky EQ, and De-Esser let you polish your sound with a simple twist of a knob, making it a killer option for streamers and creators who want pro results without the fuss.
  • I/O: 2x XLR/line/Hi-Z inputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, 2x headphone output, MIDI I/O
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: USB-C
  • Included Software: Tube-Opto Comp, Sky EQ, and De-esser

Neve 88M MK2

The Neve 88M brings the sound of legendary studios like Abbey Road, Air, and Capitol Records right to your desktop. Its dual preamps are powered by 88RS console technology and feature exclusive Marinair transformers, giving you that classic Neve warmth and punch on every track. With reference-grade conversion quality and ADAT I/O for expanding your setup, this rugged little interface is built to deliver world-class fidelity whether you're at home or recording on location.
  • I/O: 2x XLR/line/Hi-Z inputs, 2x TRS monitor outputs, 2x TRS line outputs, ADAT in and out, 2x headphone outputs, 2x Balanced insert connections
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: USB
  • Included Software: N/A
Neumann MT 48 USB-C Audio Interface

Neumann MT 48 

The Neumann MT 48 marks the company’s first step into the world of audio interfaces, delivering the same precision the brand is known for in its microphones and monitors. It features two premium-quality mic/line preamps and class-leading AD conversion for incredibly detailed recordings. Plus, you get tons of digital I/O for expanding your setup, including ADAT, S/PDIF, AES67, and even MIDI/GPIO connections, making it a flexible hub for any home or mobile studio.
  • I/O: 2x XLR/line/Hi-Z inputs, 2x Line/Hi-Z inputs, 4x Line/Monitor outputs, ADAT/S/PDIF optical I/O, AES67, MIDI/GPIO, 2x headphone outputs
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: USB-C, Ethernet (RAVENNA/AES67, Dante Ready)
  • Included Software: N/A

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
Apogee Duet 3 2x4 USB-C Audio Interface

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: Apogee Control 2, Symphony ECS Channel Strip FX, Apogee Channel FX plug-in
Focusrite Scarlett 18i16 USB Audio Interface - 4th Gen

Focusrite Scarlett 18i16 (4th Gen)

The Focusrite Scarlett 18i16 is the largest desktop interface in the 4th Gen Scarlett lineup, making it a perfect choice for multitrack recording on the go. It features four improved front-panel preamps with helpful new tools like Auto Gain and Clip Safe, plus eight line inputs and four line outputs for connecting all your gear. 
  • I/O: 4x XLR/Line/Hi-Z inputs, 4x additional line inputs, 4x TRS line outputs, ADAT in/out, S/PDIF in/out, MIDI in/out, 2x headphone outputs
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: USB-C
  • Included Software: Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools Artist (3-month subscription), Antares Auto-Tune Access, Native Instruments MASSIVE, Focusrite Red 2 & 3 Plug-in Suite, Brainworx bx_console Focusrite SC, XLN Audio Addictive Keys & Addictive Drums 2, and more
FOCUSRITE SCARLETT 16I16 USB AUDIO INTERFACE (4TH GEN)

Focusrite Scarlett 16i16 (4th Gen)

If the Scarlett 18i16 sounds like a good fit, but you only plan on recording one or two tracks at a time, the Scarlett 16i16 is a perfect (and more affordable) alternative. It features everything from the 18i16 with only two preamps.
  • I/O: 2x XLR/Line/Hi-Z inputs, 4x additional line inputs, 4x TRS line outputs, ADAT in/out, S/PDIF in/out, MIDI in/out, 2x headphone outputs
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: USB-C
  • Included Software: Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools Artist (3-month subscription), Antares Auto-Tune Access, Native Instruments MASSIVE, Focusrite Red 2 & 3 Plug-in Suite, Brainworx bx_console Focusrite SC, XLN Audio Addictive Keys & Addictive Drums 2, and more
FOCUSRITE SCARLETT 4I4 USB AUDIO INTERFACE (4TH GEN)

Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 (4th Gen)

Continuing down the Scarlett range, the 4i4 features four inputs and four outputs, including two front-panel XLR/Line/Hi-Z inputs. It’s essentially a 16i16 without the digital I/O and only four line-level inputs, but that’s still plenty for most remote tracking sessions.
  • I/O: 2x XLR/Line/Hi-Z inputs, 2x additional line inputs, 4x TRS line outputs, MIDI in/out, 2x headphone outputs
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: USB-C
  • Included Software: Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools Artist (3-month subscription), Antares Auto-Tune Access, Native Instruments MASSIVE, Focusrite Red 2 & 3 Plug-in Suite, Brainworx bx_console Focusrite SC, XLN Audio Addictive Keys & Addictive Drums 2, and more
FOCUSRITE SCARLETT 2I2 USB AUDIO INTERFACE (4TH GEN)

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen)

The most popular interface in the Scarlett series, the 2i2 is a scaled-down version of the 4i4 with two inputs and two outputs.
  • I/O: 2x XLR inputs, 2x additional line/Hi-Z inputs, 2x TRS line outputs, 1x headphone outputs
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: USB-C
  • Included Software: Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools Artist (3-month subscription), Antares Auto-Tune Access, Native Instruments MASSIVE, Focusrite Red 2 & 3 Plug-in Suite, Brainworx bx_console Focusrite SC, XLN Audio Addictive Keys & Addictive Drums 2, and more
FOCUSRITE SCARLETT SOLO USB AUDIO INTERFACE (4TH GEN)

Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen)

As the smallest, most portable, and most affordable interface in the series, the Scarlett Solo is perfect for recording on the go. It features two inputs: a line-level/Hi-Z input on the front for recording guitars and other instruments, and an XLR input on the back for recording with a microphone, making it ideal for singer/songwriters.
  • I/O: 1x XLR inputs, 1x additional line/Hi-Z input, 2x TRS line outputs, 1x headphone outputs
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: USB-C
  • Included Software: Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools Artist (3-month subscription), Antares Auto-Tune Access, Native Instruments MASSIVE, Focusrite Red 2 & 3 Plug-in Suite, Brainworx bx_console Focusrite SC, XLN Audio Addictive Keys & Addictive Drums 2, and more
Focusrite Clarett+ 4Pre

Focusrite Clarett+ 4Pre

The Scarlett series isn’t Focusrite’s only range of desktop audio interfaces. The Clarett+ series steps things up with upgraded preamps, improved converters, and an all-analog Air mode that adds clarity and presence. With four Clarett+ preamps, expanded I/O, and improved dynamic range over Scarlett models, the Clarett+ 4Pre delivers studio-quality sound in a compact, portable form factor.
  • I/O: 4x XLR/line/Hi-Z inputs, 4x additional line inputs, 4x TRS line outputs, ADAT in, S/PDIF in/out, MIDI in/out, 2x headphone outputs
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: USB-C
  • Included Software: Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools Artist (3-month subscription), Antares Auto-Tune Access, Native Instruments MASSIVE, Focusrite Red 2 & 3 Plug-in Suite, Brainworx bx_console Focusrite SC, XLN Audio Addictive Keys & Addictive Drums 2, and more
Focusrite Clarett+ 2Pre

Focusrite Clarett+ 2Pre

If you love the upgraded preamps and converters of the Clarett+ series, but don’t need all of that I/O, the Clarett+ 2Pre is the ideal solution. With just two XLR/line/Hi-Z inputs and four line-level outputs, the Clarett+ 2Pre is perfect for recording mono and stereo tracks on the go.
  • I/O: 2x XLR/line/Hi-Z inputs, 4x TRS line outputs, ADAT in, MIDI in/out, 1x headphone outputs
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: USB-C
Included Software: Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools Artist (3-month subscription), Antares Auto-Tune Access, Native Instruments MASSIVE, Focusrite Red 2 & 3 Plug-in Suite, Brainworx bx_console Focusrite SC, XLN Audio Addictive Keys & Addictive Drums 2, and more

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
Fireface UCX II

RME Fireface UCX II

The RME Fireface UCX II offers up to 40 channels of I/O, making it one of the most expansive desktop interfaces on our list. It features two mic/line preamps up front, along with digitally controlled line/instrument inputs, and a full set of ten analog line inputs and outputs around back alongside ADAT, AES/EBU, and word clock I/O. Best of all, the built-in DURec feature lets you record all inputs and outputs directly to a USB drive without a computer in the loop, which can be an absolute game-changer for live shows, rehearsals, and location recording.
  • I/O: 2x XLR/line/Hi-Z inputs, 4 TRS balanced line inputs, 6x TRS balanced line outputs, MIDI in and out, ADAT in and out, AES/EBU in and out, S/PDIF in and out, word clock I/O, 1x headphone output
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: USB 2.0
  • Included Software: TotalMix FX, TotalMix Remote, DIGICheck Analyzer

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.

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

Black Lion Audio Revolution 2x2

For years, Black Lion Audio has 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. If you love the Revolution interface but need more inputs, Black Lion also offers a six-channel version called the Revolution 6x6.
  • 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

MOTU M4

The MOTU M4 and its smaller sibling, the 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 their 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

PreSonus Studio 2|4c

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
PreSonus AudioBox GO 2x2 USB Audio Interface

PreSonus AudioBox GO

The PreSonus AudioBox GO (along with its newly rebranded sibling, the Fender Studio AudioBox) is tailor-made for singer-songwriters who want to capture ideas wherever inspiration strikes. This ultra-compact, mobile interface gives you everything you need to record and nothing you don't, with one XLR input for your mic and one Hi-Z input for plugging your guitar straight in. A single headphone output and stereo line outs handle your monitoring, making it the perfect pocket-sized companion for quick sessions on the couch or the road.
  • I/O: 1x XLR/Line input, 1x TS instrument input, 2x TRS monitor outputs, 1x headphone output
  • Maximum Sampling Rate: 96 kHz
  • Connectivity Type: USB-C
  • Included Software: Studio One Prime, Studio Magic plug-in suite
Don SpachtIf 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.