Top 10 Best Pro Tools Audio Interfaces in 2021 Reviews
It is almost impossible to come across a studio with no pro tools audio interface. This is because these gadgets are really useful for anyone who depends on sound or music for a living. That being said, they are great for studio recording engineers, sound effects designers, and sound editors. Just like anything else, pro tools audio interfaces have developed with time. That’s why today, you can come across a compact unit but with several advanced features.
However, that does not mean all pro tools audio interfaces you will come across are high performing. So, should you rush into making a purchase, do not be surprised if you get a low-performing gadget. What do we mean? You must take your time to research and compare your options in order to get the best quality audio interface. With that said, one of the places you can start is right here, where we have listed the top 10 best pro tools audio interfaces reviews.
Table Best Pro Tools Audio Interfaces
Contents Table
- 1. Focusrite Scarlet Solo USB Audio Interface
- 2. Behringer U-PHORIA UM2
- 3. Behringer U-PHORIA UMC22
- 4. Behringer U-PHORIA UMC204HD
- 5. M-Audio M-Track 2X2 USB Audio Interface
- 6. PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 Audio Interface
- 7. Tascam USB Audio Interface (US-16X08)
- 8. Behringer XENYX 502
- 9. Native Instruments Komplete Audio 6
- 10. Alesis MULTIMIX4USB 4-Channel Mixer with USB Audio Interface
1. Focusrite Scarlet Solo USB Audio Interface
The Focusrite Scarlet Solo USB Audio Interface is a new-designed instrument that works great regardless of how loud you play or how hot your pick-ups. It ensures that you play your guitar freely without unwanted distortion. Well, to deliver such a stunning performance, this USB audio interface has one natural-sounding Scarlet mic preamp that features plenty of even gain. Besides, it boasts class-leading conversions and sample rates up to 192 kHz (24 bit). This, therefore, enables it to deliver super-low latency that will let you use your plug-ins in real time without requiring the DSP. This USB audio interface works with Windows 7 and higher plus Mac OS X 10.10 and higher. Its frequency response ranges from 20 Hz – 20 kHz, and this is just fine.
What we liked:
- Perfect choice for a small/home studio
- Feels heavy and stout
- Easy to use and has no latency
- Plastic knobs look reasonably good
- The price is great
- The actual box looks gorgeous
What we didn’t liked:
- The new drivers should be improved
2. Behringer U-PHORIA UM2
Your fans should be able to see how creative you are. And the instrument that will help you achieve that is the Behringer U-PHORIA UM2. Its features are just amazing, and that’s why it is considered one of the best. For instance, it has four surprisingly pure and world-class MIDAS-designed mic preamps that will allow you to record amazing vocal right to your computer-based DAW. These MIDAS-designed mic preamps also include +48 Volt phantom power for condenser microphones. And they all go through studio-grade 192 kHz (24-Bit) converters to help you get the best possible sound quality. The Behringer U-PHORIA UM2 is versatile enough to be used by singer-songwriters and producers. It works with popular recording software such as Steinberg Cubase, Avid Pro Tools, and Ableton Live.
What we liked:
- Works with Mackie CR5s and CR3s perfectly
- Allows users to record from the microphone just fine
- The price is unbeatable
- Compatible with Windows 10
- The interface is fast
What we didn’t liked:
- The build quality and performance are not the best
3. Behringer U-PHORIA UMC22
The best audio interface is exactly what you need to make stunning recording history. That’s why we feel privileged to let you know that the Behringer U-PHORIA UMC22 is now available on the market. This super compact two by two, 48 kHz audio interface has a professional-quality MIDAS-engineered mic preamp that will no doubt give you the results you need. The gadget streams two inputs and two outputs with super low latency, and it supports Windows XP and Mac OS X or higher. Besides, it is compatible with popular recording software like Avid Pro Tools, Steinberg Cubase, and Ableton Live. This USB audio interface will no doubt help you get the best out of your projects. Its audiophile 48 kHz resolution ensures professional audio quality.
What we liked:
- Sounds great with any setup
- Can be used to facilitate live amplification
- Great for entry level users and hobbyists
- The metal construction is solid
- Supports professional-grade 48V condenser mics
What we didn’t liked:
- The driver support is poor
4. Behringer U-PHORIA UMC204HD
The Behringer U-PHORIA UMC204HD respects the fact that you take your tracks seriously. That’s why it provides up to 192 kHz resolution to meet even the most demanding applications not just in music but also in video post production. Additionally, this USB audio interface has two combination XLR/TRS inputs to give you the ultimate in studio flexibility. You can also use it to add the benefit of control surfaces to your studio workflow simply by connecting and communicating with MIDI devices. It is the type of pro tools audio interface that allows musicians to experience their performance clearly. And it achieves that by allowing zero-latency direct monitoring. The audio interface has a USB 2.0 port on its rear panel for simple and effortless connection to the computer.
What we liked:
- The audio interface has solid knobs
- Perfect for home recording studio
- Clear, loud and works really well
- The setup is incredibly easy
- Arrives really quickly
What we didn’t liked:
- Input/output does not work as expected
5. M-Audio M-Track 2X2 USB Audio Interface
This USB audio interface will not just expand your creativity but also will inspire you. We are saying this because it is an intuitive and easy-to-use audio interface that creates flawless 24-bit/192 kHz studio-quality recordings. It has what it takes to offer a transparent and low-noise solution that will help you get the best out of your microphone and even capture your performance the way you wanted it. The +48V phantom power switch makes sure that all microphone types are catered for including the professional quality condenser mic. This USB audio interface is reasonably easy to set up. This is because all you need to do is install the drivers and then connect it to your PC or Mac via the standard USB or USB-C port.
What we liked:
- Gives a great clean signal
- Comes with two types of USB-C cables
- Made of quality parts and looks professional
- Controls are labeled clearly
- Compact enough to be placed on a desktop
What we didn’t liked:
- The driver support has some sort of issue
6. PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 Audio Interface
If you are a mobile musician or podcaster, you definitely need this audio interface. It is compact and ruggedly built, so you can carry it and use it anywhere. What’s more, this USB audio interface works with virtually any Mac or PC recordings software. It boasts highly functioning Class A mic preamplifiers as well as professional-grade 24-bit, 96 kHz converters. Its frequency response is 20 Hz to 20 kHz, and this is just fine. The USB audio interface has two front panel combo mic inputs that make it perfect for songwriters, singers, podcasters, and guitar or guitar-bass collaborations. This gadget also features a mix control that will let you control the level of the input signal as well as computer playback without hearing those annoying delays.
What we liked:
- Produces rich, full, and crystal clear sound quality
- Comes with reliable software
- The audio interface records well and works as advertised
- Drivers work fine with Windows 10
- Hardware comes as described and arrives quickly
What we didn’t liked:
- The recording software is limited
7. Tascam USB Audio Interface (US-16X08)
We have included this pro tools audio interface on these reviews because it promises to be really handy for managing big sessions. This is because it is engineered to capture line inputs and 16 mic to the computer with advanced features and crisp sound quality. It also has 8 ultra-HDDA microphone preamps that deliver the quietest and cleanest operation. Besides, this USB audio interface delivers up to 57dB of gain, and its extra 8 line inputs are provided. Two of these 8 line inputs are switchable to instrument level for bass recording or direct guitar. To enable this USB audio interface to achieve low-latency mixing, the manufacturer has included a DSP mixer. We believe that you should consider this pro tool audio interface if you are a podcaster or singer/songwriter.
What we liked:
- Perfect for bedroom recording studios
- Monitor mix is nice
- Great for people on a budget
- The design seems sturdy
- The mic pres are really quiet and record well
What we didn’t liked:
- The software is a little difficult to use
8. Behringer XENYX 502
This super compact pro tools audio interface is very easy to operate and carry around. This means you can use it at a local shop for a solo gig or use it to make a quick public announcement. It is equipped with 5 inputs to allow you to easily achieve top quality sound. The 5 inputs can accommodate either a condenser or dynamic microphone. Apart from delivering ultimate performance, this pro tools audio interface is rugged enough to give you the performance you need. It is made in Germany, and this tells everything about its quality. Since this audio interface is very light, you can easily carry it to a meeting room, songsmith, restaurant or school. We are certain that you will really love its performance.
What we liked:
- Great for home or party karaoke
- The price is great
- Does not have a static noise
- Produces a clean sound
- Very lightweight for easy carry
- Does exactly what it is supposed to do
What we didn’t liked:
- The power cord comes out surprisingly easily
9. Native Instruments Komplete Audio 6
You do not have to do a lot of things to achieve pristine sound. All you need is the best pro tools audio interface. And what we all know is that you cannot mention premium-grade audio interfaces without talking about the Native Instruments Komplete Audio 6. This gadget has two mic inputs, which are loaded with high-end pre-amps. It also features Cirrus Logic converters that help deliver transparent and pristine sound. This USB audio interface can be used for recording audio as well as playing virtual instruments. It is equipped with an array of sounds in the highest possible audio fidelity. What’s more, this USB audio interface has two balanced line and two balanced mic to enable it to produce great sound.
What we liked:
- The 4 ports are really helpful
- The software is great
- The construction is very solid, durable, and robust
- Looks sleek and works great
- Very user-friendly for ultimate convenience
- Has four balanced ¼” outputs
What we didn’t liked:
- The sound quality is not the best
10. Alesis MULTIMIX4USB 4-Channel Mixer with USB Audio Interface
With this gadget, you will be able to mix live and even record audio directly to your computer. It is a versatile and useful mixer that will allow you to do several things. Moreover, it is compact, and, therefore, you can comfortably use it in your home studio. It enables bidirectional stereo playback, meaning you can use it to record the stereo Main output into your computer and then listen back. This mixer and audio interface comes with premium quality Alesis DSP effects, which include phasers, delays, and spacious reverbs, among others. It is great for home recording at your desktop or mixing the live gig. Ideally, this unit comes with a warranty manual to give you peace of mind during purchase.
What we liked:
- Delivers amazingly clean sound
- Works well for connecting mics to computers
- The software is easy to use
- Effects add a nice touch to vocals
- Perfect for starting musicians and podcasters
- Arrives fast and in good condition
What we didn’t liked:
- The hissing sound is bothersome
Buyer’s Guide for the Best Pro Tools Audio Interface
You need to consider a number of factors before buying a pro tools audio interface. This is because, through these factors, you will be able to make a correct decision on what to choose and what to avoid. So, let’s get started.
- Included Software
Yes, most, if not all pro tools audio interfaces come with at least some software. Therefore, it is recommended that you check the program pack you will be getting in the event that you are set to buy an audio interface. This is because some software can really be hard to use since they are engineered for advanced levels.
- User-friendliness
Go for a pro tools audio interface that is very easy to use. This will help you get the most out of your gadget. With that said, do not just consider a unit with basic controls but also make sure it has extra features. Well, one of these features is the separate channel LED lighting that will allow you to have a visual feedback of the levels of the individual channel.
- Technical Specifications
To be precise and concise, the technical specifications that your pro tools audio interface should have are bit depth and sample rate. The bit depth goes hand in hand with the noise levels. As such, make sure you go for an average bit depth (the recommended bit depth is 24 bits) that will allow your recordings to reach much higher levels. A sample rate is the number of captured samples, which the interface can handle in a second. Therefore, consider a gadget with an average sample rate because this will help you get the much-needed clarity.
- Inputs and Outputs
Whether you plan to use your pro tools audio interface as an instrument, an instrument & microphone or multiple instruments, the number of inputs and outputs the audio interface has is really important. That being said, you must consider the general rule of thumb that says you should get one or two extra inputs than you initially plan on using. Through this, you will be able to use your audio interface even when you find yourself in unforeseen circumstances.
- Form Factor
Form factors are mostly available in two types, which include desktop and rack interfaces. Desktop interfaces are great for home studio recording since they are pretty small, and, therefore, do not take up plenty of space. Rack interfaces, on the other hand, are much wider than desktop interfaces, although, they are pretty slim. Considering how they are made, rack interfaces make a great purchase for professionals or artists who already have other rack gadgets in their studio.
We have done everything possible to make sure that you know what to look for in a pro tools audio interface. We have not just selected the best products but also we have gone through the most important features of a good pro tools audio interface. We, therefore, hope that you come out with something from this topic.
![Photo of Top 10 Best Car Subwoofers in 2021 [Reviews & Buying Guide]](https://ahjoo.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Best-Car-Subwoofer.jpg)
