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8 Best Home Studio Recording Interfaces In 2023

Written by: Adam Eschliman

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Time to read 5 min

In this article "10 Best Home Studio Recording Interfaces In 2023", we list 10 great options to get your home recording studio off the ground. We are focusing on entry-level units, as well as a few step-up interfaces,  with affordability and ease of setup and use in mind. If you're looking to spend thousands on high-end rack gear, this is not the article you're looking for. 

Having the right audio interface can make all the difference in capturing that perfect sound. Among the myriad of choices available, some brands have consistently stood out for their reliability, performance, and innovation. In this guide, we'll explore the 10 best home studio recording interfaces of 2023, with a focus on top-notch brands such as PreSonus, Focusrite, IK Multimedia, Rode, and Tascam.

Quick Reference

1. M-Audio M-Track Duo Audio Interface

The M-Audio M-Track Duo is a compact and versatile audio recording interface that caters to the needs of entry-level musicians and content creators. With its sleek design, the M-Track Duo offers a straightforward solution for recording high-quality audio in a home studio setting.

2. Rode AI-Micro Audio Interface

Compact and mighty, the Rode AI-Micro stands out as a game-changer for creators on the move. This pint-sized audio interface from Rode is designed for simplicity without sacrificing audio quality. Geared towards content creators, podcasters, and musicians seeking a portable solution, the AI-Micro impresses with its ease of use and remarkable features. Despite its small footprint, the AI-Micro boasts a transparent Class-A preamp that faithfully captures the nuances of your audio source. Its plug-and-play functionality makes it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a hassle-free setup. The single XLR input accommodates microphones or line-level instruments, while the 3.5mm headphone jack facilitates real-time monitoring. The AI-Micro is USB bus-powered, eliminating the need for an external power source and further enhancing its portability. Rode has also integrated a direct mix control, allowing users to balance the input signal with the computer playback for optimal monitoring. Whether you're recording on the go or working in a limited space, the Rode AI-Micro is a testament to Rode's commitment to delivering quality audio solutions in a compact package. It's a reliable companion for those who demand professional-grade sound in a small, efficient form factor.

3. Presonus Studio 26C Recording Interface

Going beyond the basics, this interface offers expanded I/O capabilities, making it a versatile tool for more demanding recording scenarios. The Studio 26c features a modern USB-C connection, ensuring fast and reliable data transfer between your device and the interface. At the heart of its audio prowess are the renowned XMAX-L preamps from PreSonus, known for their transparency and low noise floor. This ensures that every nuance of your audio source is captured with precision, making the Studio 26c a preferred option for musicians and producers who prioritize professional-grade sound. Whether you're tracking instruments, vocals, or both simultaneously, the Studio 26c provides the flexibility and performance needed to meet the demands of today's diverse recording projects. It's a powerful addition to the PreSonus lineup, reflecting the brand's commitment to delivering high-quality audio solutions for the modern recording environment.
 

4. Focusrite Scarett 2i2 Audio Interface

Going beyond the basics, this interface offers expanded I/O capabilities, making it a versatile tool for more demanding recording scenarios. The Studio 26c features a modern USB-C connection, ensuring fast and reliable data transfer between your device and the interface. At the heart of its audio prowess are the renowned XMAX-L preamps from PreSonus, known for their transparency and low noise floor. This ensures that every nuance of your audio source is captured with precision, making the Studio 26c a preferred option for musicians and producers who prioritize professional-grade sound. Whether you're tracking instruments, vocals, or both simultaneously, the Studio 26c provides the flexibility and performance needed to meet the demands of today's diverse recording projects. It's a powerful addition to the PreSonus lineup, reflecting the brand's commitment to delivering high-quality audio solutions for the modern recording environment.
 

5. IK Multimedia iRig Pro Duo I/O

The IK Multimedia iRig Pro I/O is a compact and versatile audio interface designed to meet the demands of musicians and content creators on the go. Boasting a sleek and portable form factor, the iRig Pro I/O is compatible with iOS, Android, Mac, and PC, providing a versatile solution for various devices. Its standout feature is the combination XLR/1/4" combo input, accommodating both microphones and instruments with ease. This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for singer-songwriters, podcasters, and mobile recording enthusiasts.

6. Tascam US-2x2 Recording Interface

For those seeking a reliable and high-performance audio interface, the Tascam US-2x2HR proves to be a standout choice. Building on Tascam's legacy of crafting professional audio equipment, the US-2x2HR is a versatile interface designed to meet the demands of modern recording environments. Equipped with two pristine Ultra-HDDA mic preamps, it delivers an exceptional signal-to-noise ratio, ensuring that your recordings maintain clarity and detail.

The US-2x2HR features a USB-C connection, enhancing data transfer speeds and compatibility with contemporary devices. The inclusion of MIDI I/O expands its utility, allowing users to connect external MIDI controllers or sync with other MIDI-enabled gear seamlessly. This versatility makes the US-2x2HR well-suited for musicians and producers who incorporate hardware synthesizers or controllers into their setups.

7. IK Multimedia AXE I/O Solo

The top pick on this list for pure guitarists is the IK Multimedia iRig Pro Duo I/O, boasting "Best In Class Guitar Recording" capabilities. Unique to this interface is the Active / Passive pickup switch Featuring AmpliTube 5 SE and TONEX SE software for all the tone shaping you need to create incredible guitar tones. This is the perfect interface for guitars guitars direct in through the interface. No amps or microphones needed. It does however include one XLR mic preamp for added flexibility.


At the heart of the AXE I/O Solo is its high-impedance input, optimized to capture the subtle nuances and dynamics of electric guitars and basses. This input is complemented by a JFET-based input stage, which emulates the natural response of classic tube amplifiers, ensuring a warm and authentic sound. The interface also includes a dedicated Amp Out for re-amping, allowing users to send a dry signal to an amplifier or modeler and capture the tone on the way back.

8. Focusrite Clarett 2 Pre USB Interface

If you're looking to spend a little more for upgraded audio, the Focusrite Clarrett is a good option. Expanding on the Focusrite lineup, the Clarett 2Pre USB offers advanced features and upgraded clarett preamps which provided an ultra-low noise floor and loads of clean headroom. If you're an audiophile who cares about the quality and clarity of your recordings, this is the interface for you. As with other Focusrite interfaces, the Clarrett 2Pre comes with Pro Tools Artist and the Hitmaker Expansion plugins.

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