Are you looking to achieve the best results when computer recording?
You probably want the highest quality of playback, don't you?
But does that mean that you’ll have to spend a significant amount of money on an audio interface?
Lucky for you, that’s not always the case.
You can now get excellent results from an audio interface that is $200 or under. And we’ve done the research for you, listing below some of your options as far as quality and price.
Your job will be to make sure that whatever product you choose has at least a couple of inputs and outputs as well as all the functionality you require for the job you need done.
Whether you’re looking for the best audio interface for voice over, or a cheap interface with phantom power, be assured that in selecting one from this list, you’ll be making an exceptional choice.
Product | Tascam US-2X2 | M-Audio M-Track 2X2M | Presonus AudioBox 22VSL | FocusRite Scarlett 2i2 | Yamaha AG06 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Picture |  |  |  |  |  |
Price | $288.00 | $199.95 | $129.99 | $189.99 | $229.99 |
Prime? | |||||
Read Reviews |
5 Best Audio Interface under $200
#5: Tascam US-2x2
This is an audio interface that gives users an ergonomic design as well as fantastic audio quality. The Tuscan US-2x2 is a powerful machine.
There are two mic/line preamps which can provide up to 57 dB of sound, whilst keeping background noise and distortion to a barely audible minimum, making this possibly the best mic preamp available under $200.
- Combines great audio quality and ergonomic design for a powerful 2-in/2-out USB 2 Audio interface
- Two of TASCAM’s Ultra-HDDA mic/line preamps provide up to 57dB of gain with nearly inaudible noise and distortion specs
- The audio design features high-performance, musical components like NE5532 op amps for rich sound quality without coloring the source
- Includes class-compliant drivers for plug-and-play operation on Mac OSX and iOS devices, and a simple driver adds ASIO compatibility for Windows
- MIDI in and out are also included for connecting synths, drum machines, and controllers
The musical components featured in this model are all designed to give users the highest possible performance and richest sound quality. This includes the NE5532 op amps.
Class compliant drivers are included, which makes this product a simple ‘plug and play’ when it comes to use with Macs or iOS devices such as the iPad. To use it with Windows requires the simple process of downloading a driver.
For ease when connecting controllers, drum machines and synths, MIDI in-and-out ports are also included.
There are separate volume controls for headphone use and for line output. Even when both are connected at the same time, you can set an optimal level for each one. When working with headphones on, there’s no need to reach over in order to turn off your monitors.
PROS
CONS
"This is a stunning interface to look at, with honeycomb structure on the side panels and the overall look being that of industrial and hard working, whilst still being light and delicate to the touch."
#4: M-Audio M-Track 2X2M
The main selling point of this audio interface is the ease with which you can capture a high-quality signal, time after time.
A transparent, low noise solution is provided using new Crystal Preamps. This allows you to capture your audio the exact way it was performed by ensuring that you get the best out of your mic or instrument.
This model also uses A/D converters which are tailor made for an exquisite dynamic range of 192 kHz / 24 bit.
- 24 bit/192khz resolution for professional recording and monitoring with all new crystal preamps that deliver pristine, transparent sound
- +48v phantom power accommodates all microphone types
- Hi speed USB connection with USB/direct balance knob for zero latency monitoring; Includes both standard USB and USB c connection cables; Stereo ¼” outs; ¼” headphone out with independent level control
- Includes (2) XLR+¼” trs combo inputs and (2) ¼” instrument high z inputs; 5 pin midi input/output for connecting virtually any external midi gear
- Rugged metal chassis; Large central control for easy volume adjustment; table top design provides easy access to critical controls
The M-Track 2x2M lets users enjoy zero latency monitoring with its high-speed USB connection and an easy to use direct balance knob.
This hardware is compatible with both Mac and PC and included in the box are a standard USB cable as well as a USB-C cable to ensure you can get started straight away without any out-of-pocket expenses.
The 2X2M also has two dedicated XLR+1/4” balanced combo inputs for the opportunity to record two channels at once.
PROS
CONS
"The audio performance is professional, the extras are easy to use and the software bundle gives you everything to ensure that this audio interface is a great buy."
#3: Presonus AudioBox 22VSL
This very compact audio interface guarantees you a high-end sound. It can easily be taken out on the road, tucked away in a guitar case.
If you’re looking for a cheap audio interface USB then this could very well be the model for you.
- 24-bit / 96 kHz 2 x 2 USB 2.0 recording interface
- 2 dual-purpose front-panel input channels
- Mixer control (blends the input signal with the computer playback stream for zero-latency monitoring)
- Headphone jack with level control
- Main-output level control
There are two input channels on the front of the interface and these are dual-purpose. There’s also a mixer control here, which enables you to achieve zero-latency monitoring by blending the input signal and the computer playback system.
The Presonus has a main output level control, a headphone jack level control, and an LED clip indicator for each and every channel. All of this comes packaged in a small but neat interface model, finished in a stylish blue color.
The device includes Studio Magic plug-in suite. This addition enables users to add special effects to songs that you may have never thought possible before.
PROS
CONS
"If you want to make the next top ten hit but haven’t got access to a recording studio, then this device will give you the opportunity to do that, despite being small enough to carry around in your rucksack."
#2: Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (2nd Gen)
The Focusrite Scarlett will ensure that recordings sound exactly the way you intend them to.
Setting accurate levels is easy and this second generation model has been designed with heavy guitar feeds in mind.
This model includes four analog inputs, two mic preamps for a natural sound, and two instrument inputs which have been newly designed for the guitarist who likes to play loud without the threat of distortion.
- Two natural-sounding Scarlett mic preamps with plenty of even gain; two instrument inputs, 1/4-inch balanced jack outputs to connect professional studio monitors; one headphone output with gain control
- Class-leading conversion and sample rates up to 192kHz / 24 bit; super-low roundtrip latency for using your plug-ins in real time without the need for DSP
- LIMITED TIME OFFER: FREE Venomode DeeQ, Maximal 2, and Pivot, plug-ins upon registration and download.
- Includes Pro Tools | First Focusrite Creative Pack and Ableton Live Lite, Softube Time and Tone Bundle, Focusrite’s Red Plug-in Suite, 2GB of Loopmasters samples, Choice of one free XLN Addictive Keys virtual instrument, all available via download upon purchase and registration
- Compatible with Windows 7 and higher, and Mac OS X 10.10 and higher. Frequency response - 20 Hz - 20 kHz ± 0.1dB. Supported Sample Rates: 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 88.2 kHz, 96 kHz, 176.4 kHz, 192 kHz. Focusrite now offers a 3-Year Warranty on this and all other Focusrite products.
Your plug-ins benefit from a super-low latency and the conversion is one of the best available in this price range, offering sample rates of 192 kHz / 24 bit.
The single headphone output has gain control as well as 1/4 inch balanced jack outputs which enable you to connect the device to professional studio monitors.
Customers have the added advantage of being able to record with this audio interface straight out of the box, as it comes equipped with Pro Tools and a whole range of other software and samples.
PROS
CONS
"This is not only one of the best USB audio interface under $200 available, it is also one of the bestselling in the world."
#1: Yamaha AG06
If you’re looking for the best 2-channel audio interface then the AG06, with its high-resolution multi-purpose 6-channel mixer, may be one to consider.
It is compatible with either Mac or PC, so will appeal to users of both technologies, and it is also compatible with an iPad.
This device has a comprehensive design which combines 192 kHz / 24 bit sound proficiency with high-end D-PRE mic preamps.
- Two natural-sounding Scarlett mic preamps with plenty of even gain; two instrument inputs, 1/4-inch balanced jack outputs to connect professional studio monitors; one headphone output with gain control
- Class-leading conversion and sample rates up to 192kHz / 24 bit; super-low roundtrip latency for using your plug-ins in real time without the need for DSP
- LIMITED TIME OFFER: FREE Venomode DeeQ, Maximal 2, and Pivot, plug-ins upon registration and download.
- Includes Pro Tools | First Focusrite Creative Pack and Ableton Live Lite, Softube Time and Tone Bundle, Focusrite’s Red Plug-in Suite, 2GB of Loopmasters samples, Choice of one free XLN Addictive Keys virtual instrument, all available via download upon purchase and registration
- Compatible with Windows 7 and higher, and Mac OS X 10.10 and higher. Frequency response - 20 Hz - 20 kHz ± 0.1dB. Supported Sample Rates: 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 88.2 kHz, 96 kHz, 176.4 kHz, 192 kHz. Focusrite now offers a 3-Year Warranty on this and all other Focusrite products.
It is a streamlined setup, giving musicians and enthusiasts the opportunity to record and mix without compromising on the quality of sound.
The AG06 comes with a LOOPBACK function, which allows live music on all instruments and vocals, along with any background sounds or music.
This audio interface comes complete with Cubase AI, a download that is compatible with both PC and Mac computers. The program, based on industry standard techniques, helps to record, mix, and edit to produce music at a professional standard easily and quickly.
PROS
CONS
"This is a truly mobile audio interface, not only can it be simply connected to something as portable as an iPad, it can also be connected to a USB mobile battery, so you can really make music on the go."
Things to Consider When Buying An Audio Interface
Conclusion
Choosing the right and reasonably priced audio interface may seem like a daunting task. There are a huge amount of products on the market to choose from and each one has its own set of configurations, formats, connections, software, and so many other additions.
Even after narrowing down exactly what you want out of your interface, there’s still a dizzying array of quality models to choose from. But there’s no need to worry, that’s where this buying guide comes in!
Our aim is to help you find the interface that best suits your needs, and make the whole process a little less difficult, while still staying within your price range. Hopefully, after reading this article, you have a better idea of what product will be the best addition to your home or studio.
