1. Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface

About this item:

• Pro performance with the finest preamps.
• High headroom instrument input: Ideal for recording your guitar and basses. 
• Studio quality recordings for your music and podcasts.
• Scarlett’s high-performance converters which enable you to record and mix at up to 24-bit/192kHz. 
• Low-noise for crystal clear listening.
• Easy Start Tool makes it easier than ever to get up and running.
• Three years of warranty.

You’re likely to find a Scarlett Focusrite audio interface in most broadcast radio stations, simply because this audio interface delivers a rich, bright sound. 

Your vocals sound bright, warm with the right amount of depth and tone that makes people pay attention. It’s almost as if you don’t need elaborate processing in post-production. You sound like a million dollars right off the bat. This is one of the reasons it’s become the best-seller audio interface in the broadcast industry. Very few audio interfaces can match up to it.

But it does come at a cost. If you can afford it, go for it. If it’s slightly above your budget, you can get a second hand model which will still give you many years of good service.

If you have the budget, you don’t need to look any further. This is the model you should get. You will be happy with it for many years to come.

The simplest model in the range, the third-generation Scarlett Solo provides singer-songwriters with a reassuringly easy recording process. Just plug and play. Your laptop will automatically detect the audio interface and guide you through the start-up process. Less than two minutes. Seriously. 

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo is equipped with high performance 24-bit/192kHz AD-DA converters, a single upgraded third-generation Scarlett mic preamp with a switchable air setting to reproduce the air effect of Focusrite's original ISA mic preamp which gives your vocal recordings a brighter and a more open sound. 

The outstanding feature about the Scarlett Solo is the high impedance, high-headroom instrument input that allows you to record guitar or bass without any clipping or unwanted distortion, while the gain Halo metering makes it easy for you to set the input level. 

Worried about a high signal-to-noise threshold?

Don't be. It's one of the most silent audio interfaces you can buy.

It has balanced outputs that are hum-free when connecting studio monitors with balanced inputs, so you’ll always have pristine audio playback.

If you do go for the Scarlett Solo bundle, that’s a good choice because not only do you get a solid reliable interface, you also get a wide range of plugins and bundled software that comes in handy whether you’re a podcaster or music producer.

The Hitmaker Expansion is a software bundle that includes Antares Auto-Tune Access, Relab LX480 Essentials, Softube Marshall Silver Jubilee 2555, XLN Audio Addictive Keys, XLN Audio Addictive Drums 2, Three Month Splice Sounds Subscription, Brainworx bx_console Focusrite SC, and Focusrite Red Plug-In Suite. 

Also included are Ableton Live Lite, and a Three Month Avid Pro Tools Artist subscription with their complete plugin bundle; all upon purchase, registration, and download.

Need more convincing?

This is the audio interface that tells everyone you are serious about your craft.

2. M-Audio Air 192X4USB C:

About this item

• 24-bit/192kHz resolution for professional recording and monitoring to your Mac to PC
• Low Latency; 
• USB and USB-C connection cables included
• Transparent Crystal preamps
• Ultra-pristine A/D converters
• XLR+¼” TRS combo input, (1) ¼” instrument input, stereo ¼” outs and ¼” headphone out with independent level control
• Rugged metal chassis, large central volume control, VU LED meters and USB/Direct knob for zero latency monitoring.
• Pro Software - MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Touch Loops, Creative FX Collection, Xpand!2, Mini Grand, and Revalver.

• Supported software: MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Touch Loops, Creative FX Collection, Xpand!2, Mini Grand, and Revalver.

With the AIR 192|4, you can create flawless 24-bit/192kHz studio-quality recordings with an intuitive and easy-to-use audio interface. 

If you need a 1 mic-1 line channel audio interface, this is a pretty audio interface that works as good as it looks.

I like the bright led levels at the top of the interface that tell you at a glance whether you're peaking or not.

That's a smart feature because you can’t read your levels with other audio interfaces unless you're within your DAW window.

The device has two gain knobs on the top panel,  the bright led gain meters, a large volume knob at the center, and a switchable knob for choosing between direct and usb.

At the back of the unit, you have the two balanced left and right outputs to your studio monitors and the single xlr input channel.

The front of the unit has the headphone jack, the dedicated line input for your guitar or keyboard and the phantom power switch.

The reason they call it the 192 is because it records at a default rate of 24-bit/192 khz.

In simple terms, you get a lot of detail in your vocals.

This Air 192 is light, strong and sturdy making it easy to carry with you on the go.

There's an all-new 1/4 " instrument input that has a specially designed gain and impedance stage to provide the most accurate representation of a guitar or bass plugged directly into the interface.

Just like the Focusrite Scarlett, the good thing with the Air 192 is the bundled software package it contains.

Everything you need to get started is here - like the powerful Ableton Lite, MPC Beats. You also get an entire Effects plugin, virtual instruments and loop package to cater to all your production needs.

One of the things that makes the Air 192 stand out from the pack is its  preamps.

The preamps are the engine of any audio interface. This one has crystal preamps that deliver a transparent, low-noise output that guarantees the best sound output from your microphone.

3. RODECaster Pro Podcast Production Studio:

About this item:

• Integrated Podcast Production Studio with 4 Class A Mic Preamps
• 8 Programmable Pads
• Bluetooth - Mac/PC
• USB to Host
• 8 Faders

The RØDECaster Pro is the perfect all-in-one podcasting solution for beginners and professionals alike.

It has four studio-quality microphone inputs and four headphone outputs for you and your guests. 

At some point in your podcasting journey, you will upgrade to the Rodecaster Pro.

It’s pricey, but once you get it, your podcast quality will skyrocket.

It’s the podcaster’s ultimate dream because it was made with the podcaster in mind.

Every detail you need has been thought of in advance and delivered in this unit.

You can record up to four guests, make and receive phone calls via bluetooth, program your own sound effects and jingles on the pads and basically just sound like a well produced classy radio show. There are 8 large pads accessible on the console with 8 banks available – 64 sounds in total!

Having worked in broadcast radio for over 20 years, I'm almost astonished at the number of hardware units this tidy unit has made obsolete.

Let me give you an example.

A typical radio desk costs you upwards of $30,000.

Yes, that’s $30,000/-

This device does everything you expect from a top class radio desk for only $700.

If you didn’t have this unit, to produce a radio show you would need an analogue mixer, a mic preamp, one DBX signal processor rack and an audio interface, an amplifier, headphone preamp and obviously your power stabilization unit.

Now, just remove all those items and replace them with this Rodecaster Pro. 

It even has an LED meter interface so you can monitor your levels at a glance.

The RodeCaster Pro is designed to simplify podcast production whilst delivering superb audio quality. 

Podcasts can be recorded directly to microSD card, or to a computer via USB. Ease of use is assured, with intuitive controls and a large full-color touch screen.

Setting up takes second, with an easy-to-use touchscreen, automatic settings, and one-touch recording, so you can start making professional podcasts right out of the box.

On top of that, you get broadcast-pure audio - Class A mic preamps, headphone monitoring, powerful onboard audio processing, compressor, noise gate, HPF, APHEX Aural Exciter, Big Bottom

The Rodecaster Pro 2 should cost more money for the features. Thankfully, it doesn't.

It's perfect for podcast or radio production and voiceover.

4. Behringer U-Phoria UMC202 HD:

About this item

• 2-channel USB 2.0 Audio Interface with 2 MIDAS Preamps
• 24-bit/192kHz
• Phantom Power

This is an excellent digital audio interface for beginner podcasters.

Behringer has developed a solid reputation for developing affordable audio gear that works as well as any other brand in the market.

And when it comes to audio interfaces, they have made it possible to enjoy world class sound for a fraction of what it should cost.

That’s good news for you. 

This U-Phoria UMC202HD should cost twice as much and it would still be a good deal.

I’ve been using mine for the last 3 years and experienced no problems. It automatically reads most DAW’s like Audition, Ardour and Studio One effortlessly.

Your only work would be to configure the channel set-up. And that will be less than 2 minutes, because it automatically takes you through the set-up.

As long as you download the latest drivers from their page, you are good to go.

The build quality is great. The sound is excellent. Almost no latency.

They even have some helpful videos on setting it up. 

Although, be aware it will record in mono when you set it up in Audition. That shouldn’t be a problem because you can always convert your mono into a stereo recording.

On top of plugging in your XLR mic, you can add an instrument to the second channel and record real time in case you’re doing a live music recording.

The Midas-designed mic preamps are the best selling feature about this audio interface. 

They include +48 Volt phantom power for condenser microphones, all going through studio-grade 24-Bit/192 kHz converters for the best possible sound quality. 

This audio interface is ultra-dependable.

5. UA Volt 2 USB Audio Interface:

About this item:

• Easily create music productions, livestreams, and podcasts on Mac, PC, iPad, and iPhone
• Record vocals and instruments with rich, full sound using Vintage Mic Preamp mode
• Produce with industry-leading software including Ableton, Melodyne, UJAM's Virtual Drummer, Marshall, Ampeg, and more
• Harness USB bus power for on-the-go recording with class-leading 24-bit/192 kHz audio conversion
• Studio-quality headphone amp, MIDI connections, 48V phantom power, and Direct Monitoring for latency-free recording
• 30-day Free Trial Subscription to UAD Spark

The built-in compressors, and the outstanding mic preamps are the biggest selling point for me.

Getting the free plugins bundle that comes with it doesn't hurt either. Whether you use Adobe Audition, Studio One or Cakewalk by Bandlab, the sound is pristine.

6. Zoom PodTrak P4 Podcast Recorder:

About this item:

• 4 high quality microphone inputs with phantom power
• 4 headphone outputs with individual volume control
• 4 programmable Sound Pads + multi-track recording for all inputs and Sound Pads
• Automatic Mix-Minus for call-in phone interviews + remote interviews via TRRS jack and USB Audio Interface mode
• Up to 3.5 hours on 2 AA batteries

Once you scale up your podcast production, you’re gonna be torn between Rode and Zoom devices.

I foresee that you will simply just get them all because they are so good.

Take the Zoom PodTrak P4 for example.

This audio interface allows you the flexibility to record on location and still deliver crystal clear audio regardless of your environment.

It fits in the palm of your hand and contains 4 XLR inputs, recording on separate channels on your multitrack DAW.

On top of that, it also has 4 separate headphone outputs so each guest can monitor themselves.

Can it be dubbed as the “the ultimate recorder for podcasting?” 

It certainly lives up to the billing.

It has a smart intuitive interface.

It’s compact, affordable, and loaded with features, and it makes it easy to capture professional audio wherever you’re recording your podcast.

Easily connect your phone using the TRRS connection. Trigger sound effects using four assignable Sound Pads with 11 preset sounds. 

One of the best things about the Podtrack is the ‘Call-In’ feature. For those of you, like me, who have had broadcast radio experience, this is so insightful because the one thing that makes any radio show or podcast recording more lively and engaging is…you guessed it... phone calls.

You can achieve this with the Podtrack P4. Simply connect your phone to the P4 with a TRRS cable. Or connect your computer via USB, using your favorite conferencing software. Call your guest via bluetooth and they will engage with you. 

Say you want to record a phone conversation. When you listen to radio sometimes, and a presenter takes an on-air call, you hear feedback and the On-Air personality has to ask the caller to turn down their volume to stop the feedback. With the Zoom Podtrack P4, you can automatically prevent this feedback from happening using the Mix-Minus function.

The P4 comes with customizable Sound Pads that you can program with your favorite sound effects, jingles or custom voice tracks. And you have the option of 11 pre-recorded presets to work with.

Suppose you want to use the P4 as an audio interface - a go between - from your mic to computer. It’s possible. It can serve as a 2-input, 2-output audio interface, allowing you to record directly to your computer, Android or iOS* device. 

You can also live-stream your podcast.

The best thing about it is that right out of the box, you will figure it out. 

Everything just seems so logical. Four XLR mic ins on the top and right below each is a corresponding Gain knob. The knobs are labeled 0-10 and are smooth when turning.

Below the Gain knobs are switches with icons. The first two inputs have two switchable positions. The first is the icon of a mic and second is a mic with a lighting bolt. If you don’t know, there are two basic types of mics... powered and unpowered. 

The next input has three selections. 

Under the switches are four single buttons with icons featuring a speaker symbol with a slash over it representing... mute. The buttons even light up red when activated. 

On the very bottom of the unit are four 1/4 inch jacks for headphones. Each jack is lined up with the four inputs and each has a dial labeled 0-10 for setting headphone volume.

To the right of the sound pads is the backlit, monochrome LCD screen. The most important info during recording is displayed here - 'record time', each channel level, master level, battery level and a black dot signifying record. 

A good investment? 

Yes, absolutely.

7. PreSonus AudioBox:

The AudioBox iTwo audio interface contains outstanding preamps and digital converters. 

This device has some world-class microphone preamplifiers (probably second to the Motu M2), and the AudioBox iTwo is equipped with a new, sweet-sounding mic preamp that will capture your voice in all its glory. 

You get clean, clear, 24-bit, 96 kHz digital converters and an ultra-loud, crystal-clear headphone output to hear every detail.

The AudioBox iTwo is built to travel. It’s a mobile audio interface in the best sense of the term. 

It can sit on a tabletop or fit in the pocket of a backpack or laptop bag and works with standard iOS power accessories. Its metal chassis is built like a small tank—yet it weighs just 1.35 pounds (0.63 kg). 

Whenever your creative muse calls, your AudioBox iTwo interface will be ready to help you compose and record your masterpiece.

One of the best things about Presonus is the incredible array of plugins that you get when you purchase the Audio Box - like the Studio Magic Plug-In suite. 

This suite of plug-ins adds a wealth of fresh sounds and effects to Studio One.

Each plug-in brings a different flavor of practical magic to your podcast recording. 

The best software for podcasters is definitely the free version of the Studio One Artist DAW.

It makes podcasting recording a breeze because it offers a ready-made template for podcasters.

It’s actually processed right out of the box. Record directly into Studio One, play it back and you will be surprised how rich your voice sounds.

You don’t need to spend countless hours in post-production doing a lot of processing like noise reduction, limiting, compression and normalization.

You already sound so good!

No other entry-level recording and production software is this easy to learn and use, yet is capable of creating studio-quality output. Studio One Artist lets you work quickly and stay focused on your inspiration, offers unlimited tracks and plug-ins, and delivers features not normally found in entry-level DAWs. 

Just a word of caution about your operating system… it works well with Windows 10. Not so well with Windows 11.

8. MOTU M2 2x2 USB-C Audio Interface:

About this item:

• Sabre32 Ultra DAC Technology: 
• Best-in-class Speed: 
• Best Metering: 
• Live Streaming Loopback: 

I love the look of the Motu M2.

This is a well thought out, well built audio interface that stands out as one of the best in the market.

An led panel on the front side allows you to see if you're peaking or not.

A headphone jack in the front is tidy

Each channel at the front has an amplitude knob to allow you to adjust levels.

Perhaps the most noticeable feature about the Motu M2 stand out is the low noise floor.

This interface has probably the best preamps you could wish for, hence the slightly pricey tag.

In addition, the pre-amplifier gives you an interesting warm, tube-like tonality to it, so if you love that old-time radio sound, this is the interface for you. 

In other words, the Motu M2 is pricey, but it’s worth it.

9. Arturia MiniFuse 2 USB-C Audio Interface:

About this item

• A compact USB recording interface.
• High-quality sound for perfect guitar or vocals.
• Includes 2 Inputs (2x combo Mic/Inst/Line XLR inputs with 48V phantom power + 2x Inst/Line TRS inputs), 2 Outputs (1/4" TRS balanced line outputs), 
• 1 Headphone Outputs with volume control and 
• 1 USB type A hub (250mA). 
• It also includes 5-pin MIDI input & output connections.
• Beginner-friendly with software included.

The MiniFuse 2 fits right into your setup with a straightforward set of ins and outs. 

Its single combo input lets you easily connect either XLR or 1/4” jack cables. 

Plug into your computer with quick & compact USB-C compatibility and connect USB devices like your MIDI keyboard with the additional USB hub socket.

For audiophiles, the MiniFuse boasts a 110dB dynamic range and a class-leading equivalent input noise of -129dB. 

For everyone else, that means that every recording you make sounds incredible, with rich dynamics, clear noise-free signal, and studio-grade quality - you can’t go wrong.

It has a tough, portable design.

It’s not only compact and lightweight; its rugged aluminum casing can handle the mobile producer’s lifestyle. Chuck it in your bag, get out there, and find the sound you’ve been looking for.

Whether you're using a laptop or desktop, MiniFuse can work for you. PC or Mac, connect it, and enjoy total recording freedom. Better still, with the MiniFuse Control Center app, you can monitor its inputs, outputs, settings, and firmware updates in one place.

Downloading the control software manages the firmware as well as general configuration, letting you see the input and output meters in one spot. 

You can also set the latency and hz. For the very first setup, you may need to close the app and reopen it, or restart your machine, so that everything can update as needed.

Similarly, the control software makes it easy to see how audio is coming in and going out, with meters for monitoring and also master sliders & panning.

You can adjust the output master so you have more leeway in the output knobs, which is important due to the fact that the box has some serious power. 

10. Zoom H4n Pro:

About this item:

• Four-channel recording up to 24-bit, 96 kHz. 
• Built-in stereo X/Y microphones, up to 140 dB SPL
• 2 XLR/TRS inputs with locking connectors. 
• Records directly to SD/SDHC cards up to 32 GB
• 4-in/2-out USB audio interface. Monaural speaker: 400 mW 8 Ω
• Line/phone-LINE Output.
• All Black Finish

Gosh! I love this device.

The look, the rugged look, the toughness of the device… this is my ultimate Swiss knife! 

The kind of interface I’d buy just to show off! 

Not only is the Zoom H4N ideal for guitarists, bassists, it makes for a versatile and portable audio interface for podcasters.

When Zoom say they are made for podcasters, this is what they were talking about.

Despite its size, you can produce studio-quality tracks on it.

You don't even need an XLR mic. You can record directly with the Onboard Stereo Microphone Capsule.

The versatile mic/line/instrument inputs lets you record up to four tracks of high-resolution audio in the palm of your hand. 

Plug in your favorite guitar and microphone, and enjoy unlimited overdubbing, amp simulation, and a slew of effects to develop your tracks into a polished mix. 

Like other H-Series Handy recorders such as the H5 and H6, you can hold it in your hand, attach it to a mic stand or tripod, or mount it to a camera (shoe mount available separately). 

The H4n Pro packs a surprising array of features into a rugged rubberized body that's more than ready to meet the varied demands of songwriters, musicians, filmmakers, sound designers, content creators, and more. 

My only worry about this item is the use of AA batteries.

I would recommend you plug it in to direct power as much as possible because it will drain those batteries like nothing else.

Other than that, it boasts powerful audio processing functions and it’s well equipped to handle anything from tracking live performances, demos, and complete songs, to recording sound effects, interviews, and meetings.

This bundle includes an AD-14 AC Adapter from Zoom designed for use with the Q3, H4n or R16. 

A WRW Series Custom Windbuster provides dual-layered wind protection. 

You will need a 16GB SDHC Memory Card Premium Class 10 UHS-I memory card and it comes with a USB 2.0 Type A Male to Type B Mini Male Cable (6')

Just be careful about the handling noise - it picks up handling noise like you wouldn't believe. If you can, just mount it on a tripod or set it to record and don’t touch it for the duration of your recording.

11. Zoom H6:

About this item:

• 24-bit/96kHz audio and six-track simultaneous recording.
• Contains four mic/line inputs and interchangeable capsules.
• Features auto-record, pre-record, and backup-record functions.
• A large full-color LCD display and gain control knobs with -20dB pads for each input, making it simple to navigate and adjust settings.
• 20 hours of battery operation.

The H6 is the ultimate portable recorder. With its advanced preamps and interchangeable capsules, the H6 delivers unmatched versatility and award-winning quality.

It contains six* discrete line-level / mic-level inputs, plus the ability to overdub and more, the H6 provides the road from a great idea to the perfect track.

Featuring interchangeable mic capsules, four combo inputs and six tracks of quality recording, the H6 is ready to record on any set and in any scene the director throws at you.

Whether you’re a musician creating your own unique masterpiece, or a sound designer looking for that perfect sound effect, the H6 will become your most trusted companion.

The H6 offers four XLR/TRS combo jacks with dedicated pad switches and gain control for distortion-free recording.

The H6 features two 1/8” outputs, a stereo line out as well as a headphone out with dedicated volume control.

You can record continuously for over 20 hours with just four AA batteries or extend your recording time indefinitely with the optional AD-17 adapter.

First, it is great having the four inputs.

You can run the four dials right on the front to control the volume for each of the four channels.

You can also decide which tracks will be recorded by clicking on and off the front buttons that correspond to mic and then each of the four tracks.

One thing I do while adjusting the volumes before recording is simply monitor/listen with only one channel at a time on, and then later turn on all the channels I want to record.

A huge improvement is the fact that the unit begins recording as soon as you hit record.

Older models would be "armed" for recording and then you would have to hit record again.

Another major improvement is that when you are done recording and hit stop, this device will automatically have saved the recording.

In previous models, if you turned off the power without hitting stop, the recording would be lost.

All in all, you can’t go wrong with the Zoom H6.

12. Rode AI-1 USB Audio Interface:

The AI-1 USB Audio Interface adds studio-quality input and output capabilities to your computer, making home recording easier than it's ever been. 

With its high quality Neutrik combo jack input and discrete Class-A preamp, you’ll be able to connect either a microphone, guitar or a line level instrument, such as a synthesizer. 

The AI-1 is the best quality-for-price single-channel interface available, bar none.

It’s also incredibly easy to use, thanks to a well thought-out design. 

The AI-1 allows zero-latency playback by enabling the direct monitoring feature and playback via headphones/speakers with the high quality discrete headphone amplifier. 

To ensure the AI-1 is truly versatile, it features 48V Phantom Power and is class compliant - so no need to install any drivers.

The AI-1 is a professional-grade single-channel audio interface that delivers exceptional audio quality for everything from bedroom music recording to livestreaming and podcasting. 

Featuring a studio-grade preamp, a high-quality Neutrik combo jack for connecting microphones or instruments, and a high-power headphone amplifier for crystal-clear audio monitoring and playback, it’s the perfect interface for recording studio-quality audio at home.

The AI-1 now packs more of a punch with an upgraded 60dB worth of gain. It can now handle any microphone, even the lowest output dynamic mics.

13. M-Audio M-Track Duo – USB Audio Interface:

About this item:

• Podcast, Record, Live Stream, 
• USB sound card for Mac or PC delivers 48 kHz audio resolution
• Record guitar, vocals or line input signals with one combo XLR / Line Input with phantom power and one Line / Instrument input

The M-Track Duo differs from its Air 192 brother by adding another XLR input to make it an affordable, clear, pristine 2 In/Out interface.

Plus you can combine that with a line input/output to add your guitar or keyboard.

Why buy it?

• The price! One of the best for such quality.
• Direct Monitoring & Headphone Connection
• Zero latency
• Start Recording Immediately
• MPC Beats. This DAW makes it easy and fun to create professional sounding podcasts, music, or pro sounding beat productions.
• 80 effect plug-ins provided by AIR
• World-Class Virtual Instruments - TubeSynth, Electric, and Bassline
• Crystal Preamps to provide you with a transparent, low-noise preamp threshold.

In Summary

So, out of all these audio interfaces, which one would I buy?

Gosh, that’s a hard question!

I guess it comes down to budget, because they are all so good.

If I had to choose one between 10-100 dollars, I’d go for a 2-channel unit and my pick would be the M-Audio M-Track Duo.

Within the 100-200 range, my top pick would be the Behringer UPhoria UMC202 HD interface, which I currently use.

If budget wasn’t an issue, the Rodecaster Pro at $699 is top of my wishlist.

And sitting right in the middle of that price range, at a respectable $349, would be the Zoom H6.

But considering my love for all things podcasting, trust me to buy all three!