Best Audio Interface Under 300 in 2023

It’s a fantastic opportunity to research the market if you want a good audio interface without breaking the bank. Recently, the availability of reasonably priced recording gear has increased, allowing music makers to choose from various brands and purchase high-quality equipment that frequently includes free sound editing software. This article can assist you in choosing the best audio interface for under $300.

How to Pick the Top Audio Interfaces Under $300?

Inputs and Outputs

It would help if you first determined the required inputs and outputs before choosing the best audio interface under $300. You probably don’t need more than 1 or 2 inputs if you want to utilize one microphone or instrument at a time or if you’re a producer who usually creates music on a computer. However, you need to be sure the interface can accommodate a more significant number of recording devices if you intend to collaborate with a whole band. While this is going on, having several outputs can come in helpful if you wish to use different headphone mixes (for example, for DJ sessions) or send the sound to another device for further processing.

Connectivity

One of the most significant advantages is your connecting options when buying a little more expensive audio interface. Most inexpensive interfaces only support USB 2.0, which is an intelligent choice because even some of the models in this article use USB connectivity and deliver decent results.

However, many modern interfaces test USB 2.0’s capabilities by pushing them to their limits. This is why you want to purchase an audio interface with different connectivity, such as one of the Thunderbolt versions available in this price range. Thunderbolt’s data transmission speed, up to 20 times quicker than USB 2.0’s, can raise the caliber of an audio interface to a new level.

Quality

The interface’s functionality is directly impacted by how effectively it is constructed. Make sure the casing and the actual device have solid construction. The only way to ensure that your equipment will be secure while traveling and that the casing can withstand minor dings and abuse is to do this.

Comparison Table:

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  1. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 audio interface is attractive if you’re looking for a terrific-sounding interface for your home computer. You can use this model to start learning and eventually mastering all the features, even if you’re starting. The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 offers an additional “stomp & drop” input that lets you transfer a single track to another software in addition to its four conventional audio inputs. Additionally, a single channel can be sent to another input with an assignable fader control.

  1. M-Audio AIR 192/4

M-Audio AIR 192|4

Sound recording and playback are made possible with the new M-Audio Air 192/4 USB interface, which is quick and precise. Additionally, it provides faster audio and MIDI data transmission speeds for synchronized, simple operation between computer hardware and software.

Several new features have been added to the new edition, including the Quick Panel that was previously mentioned, making it easier to make playlists and assign tracks to groups. Other noteworthy improvements include the updated software’s use of the Air Driver, which enables Windows Vista compatibility.

  1. PreSonus ioStation 24c 2×2

PreSonus ioStation 24c 2x2

For those professional sound system owners or mixers that use huge sound boards at work, the PreSonus ioStation 24c 2×2 audio interface is ideal. This gadget enables you to connect a line output to the same computer and link it to any line input to boost the signal.

With this board, you may acquire a more robust signal that can transfer audio more clearly. You can send midi files straight to your personal computer using the PreSonus notation or connect it to your computer via USB for a high-quality sound interface.

  1. MeloAudio Tone Shifter

MeloAudio Tone Shifter

Tone Shifter by MeloAudio A state-of-the-art synthesis engine and low noise phantom power were used to construct the Mega audio interface, a USB interface with a MIDI foot controller. You can produce fresh and original sounds by combining one of the various virtual instruments with the inbuilt electronic sound collection.

All Mac and PC operating systems are supported. Both high-definition recording and high-resolution output are available for musicians in the professional realm. Additionally, the software package that is supplied includes in-depth help guides.

  1. PreSonus Studio 24c 2×2

PreSonus Studio 24c 2x2

You may record high-resolution audio with the PreSonus Studio 24c 2×2 audio interface without compromising sound quality. It is made for professional audio interface needs. This audio interface can record up to 24-bit, 192kHz, making it perfect for desktop and laptop recording, audio mixing and mastering, and live-to-mix.

It offers professional-level audio at a very affordable price because of its two PreSonus XMAX-L solid-state mic preamps and premium converters. The investment is unquestionably worthwhile if you run a studio and require this gadget to be very versatile in its features and capabilities.

Conclusion

Before selecting the top audio interface under $300, you must first establish the number of inputs and outputs needed. If you only want to use one microphone or instrument at a time or if you’re a producer who often makes music on a computer, you don’t need more than 1 or 2 inputs.

If you want to work with a full band, you must ensure the interface supports a more significant number of recording devices. Multiple outputs can be helpful in this situation if you want to use various headphone mixes (for instance, for DJ sessions) or send the sound to another device for additional processing.

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