Need the best cheap audio interface? Read my best cheap audio interface review.
Think about this for a moment: just a decade ago, recording music at home was not an option. You couldn't just buy the best cheap audio interface and record music, unless you had a big budget. Studio gear and audio interfaces are cheap in 2019, but studio equipment was pretty expensive a while ago. There was no such thing as the best cheap audio interface back then, you would have to pay a big price to get one (or pay for studio time).
OK, I know what you're thinking. Why is this music critic talking about audio interfaces in the past, when I'm here for the best cheap audio interface in 2019?
So let's begin and find the best cheap audio interface for YOU! No matter what your budget is, your next audio interface is on this list.
Best Cheap Audio Interface
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Mackie Onyx Artist 1-2
The best when it comes to durability
Need zero-latency monitoring, excellent recording quality and cheap audio interface that's built like a tank? This might be the one for you!
The Onyx Artist 1-2 features an Onyx mic preamp with excellent sound quality. Controls and I/O options are exactly what you'd expect at this budget price range; 1/4" TRS input and XLR mic input.
If you need a cheap audio interface to record your performance at home, in the studio, or on the go, look no further!
Tascam US-1X2
Interface with one of the best mic preamps in this price range
Another great audio interface on our chart. Though the Tascam US-1X2 features an eye-catching design, it's not the most versatile interface on this chart (in terms of I/O choices). It does, however, come with XLR and TRS input for mics and switchable line-level or instrument-level recording. And, its mic preamp is certainly one of the best in this price range, even in 2019.
M-Audio M-Track 2X2 C-Series
A stylish audio interface with rock solid performance
Excellent audio interface from the brand that does things differently - M-Audio. Needless to say, this device looks very appealing and packs great hardware.
I actually bought this interface 2 years ago and I'm still using it daily in 2019. It features extremely low signal coloration and noise levels, that's why it's perfect for people that need clean studio quality recordings, especially vocals.
PreSonus AudioBox USB 2x2
The best for vocals
This is the best choice for people with one main goal - recording vocals.
It's not the best in terms of the design, but it's not too ugly either. This audio interface does have an excellent build quality, though. Besides the versatile I/O ports, this interface comes with great software package by PreSonus.
Overall, the AudioBox USB 2x2 is a good choice for beginners and advanced users on a budget. Definitely great addition to any studio.
Behringer U-PHORIA UMC204HD
The best cheap audio interface in terms of versatility
The U-PHORIA series has set a high standard when it comes to good recordings and performances at a budget price. This audio interface is designed to offer more features than you can find elsewhere!
It packs two inputs (XLR/TRS ports) and four outputs. It also features Behringer's MIDAS mic preamp, which delivers great vocal clarity.
This is a good choice for people that need a versatile audio interface.
Steinberg UR12
Cheap audio interface from the well-known brand
Though the Steinberg name may not be associated with cheap gear, the UR12 will get the job done at an affordable price this time.
The UR12 audio interface looks really clean and the build quality is on point as well. It features two channels for microphone and instrument, and you get gain control for both.
You can power this device using the standard USB cable or 5V DC via mini USB.
Line 6 Sonic Port
Great for guitar players on the go
Line 6 is a well-known brand in the music industry, and they have created some of the most affordable guitar accessories in 2019 (inclusing audio interfaces).
This is the least versatile option on this list. It's only compatible with Mac OS DAWs, and only guitar players can take advantage of its features.
Not great for home studio, but a decent choice for guitar players on the go.
As you can see in this Best Cheap Audio Interface buying guide, you no longer have to spend thousands of dollars to get the best interface for your studio. There are a lot of 5-star rated budget friendly interfaces that will do the job, and help you record your performance or vocals in a studio.
If you're looking for an audio interface with 5 stars, take a look at the interface review articles above. We can't display any price here, so click the button "Check Price" and check the price on Amazon.
I'd be lying if I said a $500 audio interface doesn't deliver better features and studio sound, but we're looking at the CHEAP audio interfaces here. And, the core performance of an audio interface under $1000 and those under $100 is more or less the same.
At the end of the day, the best cheap audio interface is there to deliver the best possible sound on a budget. Most of the audio interfaces will offer mic preamp and an instrument channel (and output options and controls). But you can't expect much more than that.
If you're a music critic, guitar junky, or fella that likes music, this buying guide will help you pick good music studio equipment, no matter what your budget is. If you have any questions, contact us at media@indiehq.com.
Interfaces mentioned below are cheap and good for beginners, but that doesn't mean they suck. You can find an online review for each of these audio interfaces mentioned above. And, if you need other studio equipment (which doesn't suck), check out our other reviews as well.