15 Guitar Audio Interface Reviews for Serious Musicians in 2023

The first is the number of input channels you need. If you only plan to record one guitar at a time, a single-channel interface will suffice. However, if you plan to record multiple instruments simultaneously, you’ll need an interface with multiple input channels.

The second factor to consider is the type of connection the interface uses to connect to your computer or mobile device.

USB is the most common type of connection, but some interfaces also use Thunderbolt, FireWire, or PCIe. The type of connection you choose will depend on the type of computer or mobile device you have and the speed of the connection you need.

We spent hours researching and testing various guitar audio interfaces to identify the ones that provide the best sound quality, ease of use, and value for money.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top-rated guitar audio interfaces on the market to help you find the best one for your needs.

Best Guitar Audio Interfaces

If you’re a musician looking to record your guitar playing, a high-quality audio interface is a must-have tool.

These devices allow you to connect your guitar to your computer or mobile device, providing top-notch sound quality and a range of features to help you get the most out of your recordings.

To help you find the perfect guitar audio interface for your needs, we’ve put together a list of the best options on the market today. Check out our top picks below!

Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface

If you’re a guitarist, vocalist, podcaster, or producer looking for a high-fidelity, studio-quality recording, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface is the perfect product for you.

Pros

• Best performing mic pre-amps for brighter and more open recordings
• Gain Halos to capture instruments in all their glory without unwanted distortion
• High-performance converters for professional-sounding recordings

Cons

• Software installation can be difficult for some users
• Heavy dependence on software
• Active support from Focusrite can be lacking

As a guitar player, I was impressed with the high headroom instrument input that allowed me to capture my guitar’s tone without any unwanted clipping or distortion.

The Scarlett Solo also features a switchable Air mode that adds extra clarity to vocals when recording.

The low-noise balanced outputs provide clean audio playback, allowing me to hear all the details and nuances of my own track or music from various streaming services. The Easy Start online tool made it easy to get up and running, and the included sound content and software provided me with all the tools I needed to start recording right away.

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, reliable audio interface for their recording needs.

Pyle Professional USB Audio Interface with MIC, Guitar, AUX Stereo Inputs, Phone/Monitor Outputs

If you’re looking for a reliable audio interface for your guitar, this Pyle Professional USB Audio Interface could be a great option. It offers a lot of features for the price, and the ultra-low noise design ensures that you get a clear and pristine recording quality.

Pros

• Multiple connectivity options for input and output
• Compact and rugged metal housing
• 48V phantom power supply for reliable power source

Cons

• May not work well with bass guitar
• Some users reported issues with USB power sleep controls
• Not as many features as some higher-end audio interfaces

One of the standout features of this audio interface is the multiple connectivity options.

With (2) XLR jacks, (2) 6.35 jack, and (1) AUX 3.5mm jack for input, and a 6.35 jack and a 3.5 jack for phones, and 1 L/R jack for monitor for output, you’ll have plenty of options to suit your needs. And with a 48V phantom power supply, you can be sure that you’ll have a reliable power source for your recordings.

The compact and rugged metal housing is another great feature. It’s built to last, and it won’t take up too much space on your desk or in your bag. And with ultra-low noise design, LED lights, and multiple output knobs, you can easily adjust audio from different sources and switch from mono to stereo.

Overall, if you’re looking for a solid audio interface for your guitar recordings, this Pyle Professional USB Audio Interface is definitely worth considering. It’s affordable, easy to use, and offers a lot of features for the price.

Apogee Duet 3-2 Channel USB Audio Interface

The Apogee Duet 3 is the perfect audio interface for recording vocals, playing instruments, live streaming, or podcasting, thanks to its legendary sound quality and ease of use.

Pros

• World-class preamps with up to 65dB of gain and 48V phantom power, ensuring that even the most demanding microphones can be cleanly and precisely captured.
• Hardware DSP with practically zero latency while recording, allowing you to capture your best performance and dial in your perfect sound with the Symphony ECS Channel Strip powered directly from the onboard hardware DSP.
• Ultra-compact design with scratch-resistant cover glass makes this the best portable audio interface on the market. Plus, you get a handy travel case included to protect your gear for years to come.

Cons

• At a higher price point, this interface may not be the best option for beginners or those on a tight budget.
• Some users have reported issues with crashing after only a month of use, although Apogee’s customer service is said to be excellent in resolving these issues.
• Controls can be confusing and fiddly, requiring some time to get used to.

The Apogee Duet 3 is a top-of-the-line audio interface that delivers on its promise of legendary sound quality and ease of use.

One of its standout features is its hardware DSP, which allows for practically zero latency while recording and makes it easy to dial in your perfect sound.

I was particularly impressed with the world-class preamps, which provided clean and precise capture of even the most demanding microphones.

The ultra-compact design with scratch-resistant cover glass also makes this the perfect portable audio interface for those on the go.

While this interface may not be the best option for beginners or those on a tight budget, it is an excellent investment for anyone serious about high-quality audio recording. And with compatibility across all platforms, including macOS, Windows 10, and even iOS devices like an iPhone or iPad, the Apogee Duet 3 is truly a one-interface-fits-all solution.

iRig HD 2 Guitar Audio Interface

If you’re looking for a high-quality guitar audio interface that lets you record music with plug-and-play simplicity on every device, the iRig HD 2 is an excellent choice.

With a 1/4″ Hi-Z input jack, you can connect your guitar to your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or PC and start playing and recording in minutes. Here are the pros and cons of this product:

Pros

• The 1/4″ Amp Out jack with switchable output “FX” and “Thru” lets you connect the interface to an amplifier without additional accessories.
• The 96kHz sampling rate is the highest in its class, and the headphone output with preamp and level control lets you practice silently without sacrificing performance.
• The iRig HD 2 is a high-quality guitar preamp that lets you adjust your input gain and put effects in the FX/Thru switch without having to change all of your levels every time.

Cons

• The registration website can be a bit of a pain, but the product works great once you get it set up.
• The connection to the amplifier may deliver poor sound quality, but the headphones sound great.
• The jack that delivers FX sound to your amp needs some work, and the latency issues and sound artifacts can be frustrating.

One of the main features of the iRig HD 2 is its ability to connect to an amplifier without additional accessories.

The iRig HD 2 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a high-quality guitar audio interface that lets you easily record your music at home or while out.

“I’ve used the original iRig for a long time and really liked it. Now that my devices don’t have headphone jacks anymore, I needed an upgrade. I use this mostly for practicing, not recording. Works great with my iPhone and iPad Pro. It’s built well and feels solid. I like the fact that it has a headphone jack and an output for an amp. I use it with Amplitube and it works great. I highly recommend it.”

“This box used together on my iPhone with the latest version of AmpliTube literally gives me Brian May’s different guitar settings for each of his most well-known songs. For around £100 for the box and software, it’s a bargain. I have used it with my iPad Pro and it works great. The sound is amazing.”

“I bought this much-hyped digital interface because I wanted to work out and record some guitar parts while on holiday, using GarageBand on a 2018 iPad. At home, my first impressions when plugging it in were that it was very quiet, with a lot of noise. But after I played around with the settings, I was able to get a much better sound. The iRig HD 2 is a great product for anyone looking to record music with ease.”

M-Audio M-Track Solo

The M-Audio M-Track Solo is a great choice for anyone looking for a portable, high-quality audio interface. With its crystal preamp and versatile inputs, this interface can handle any recording situation with ease.

Pros

• The compact and portable design makes it easy to take anywhere
• The crystal preamp guarantees optimal sound quality from any microphone
• The versatile inputs allow you to record any type of sound source

Cons

• Some users have reported stability issues with the device
• The phantom power may not be strong enough for certain microphones
• The headphone output may not be loud enough for some users

If you’re looking for an audio interface that can handle anything from podcasting to live streaming, the M-Audio M-Track Solo is an excellent choice.

With its zero-latency monitoring and easy-to-use controls, you can start recording right away.

One of the main features of the M-Track Solo is its crystal preamp, which guarantees optimal sound quality from any microphone. Whether you’re using a condenser mic or a dynamic mic, you can be sure that your recordings will sound clear and professional.

The M-Audio M-Track Solo is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, portable audio interface. With its versatile inputs and easy-to-use controls, you can start recording right away and take your music to the next level.

Arturia – AudioFuse – Compact Versatile Audio Interface

If you’re looking for a portable and versatile audio interface with excellent sound quality, the Arturia AudioFuse is a great option.

Pros

• The AudioFuse is compact and easy to carry, making it perfect for musicians on the go.
• The sound quality is exceptional, thanks to the two proprietary DiscretePRO microphone preamplifiers and top-notch AD/DA converters.
• The AudioFuse Creative Suite includes a variety of creative plugins that can help you take your recordings to the next level.

Cons

• The AudioFuse Control Center can be a bit overwhelming for beginners, but it’s worth taking the time to learn how to use it.
• The AudioFuse is a bit pricey compared to some other audio interfaces on the market, but the quality is worth the investment.
• Some users have reported issues with the device not connecting to their computer, but Arturia has excellent customer support to help resolve any issues.

If you’re a guitarist looking for an audio interface that can help you capture your sound with exceptional quality, the Arturia AudioFuse is a great choice. One of the standout features of the AudioFuse is its ability to connect with virtually everything, including mics, instruments, turntables, studio equipment, Mac, PC, tablets, and even iOS and Android phones. This makes it incredibly versatile and easy to use in any recording situation. Additionally, the AudioFuse Control Center gives you complete control over the mixer, selection of inputs, routing, monitoring, and additional functions such as sampling rate, Clock Source, Pad, Cue, and more.

One of the main features that sets the AudioFuse apart from other audio interfaces is its exceptional sound quality. The two proprietary DiscretePRO microphone preamplifiers and top-notch AD/DA converters help to ensure that your recordings sound clear and professional. Whether you’re recording vocals, guitar, or any other instrument, the AudioFuse can help you capture your sound with exceptional quality.

Overall, if you’re looking for a portable and versatile audio interface that can help you take your recordings to the next level, the Arturia AudioFuse is definitely worth considering. With excellent sound quality, a variety of creative plugins, and complete control over your recording setup, the AudioFuse is a great investment for any musician or producer.

MaonoCaster AME2 Audio Interface

If you’re looking for a versatile audio interface that’s perfect for podcasting, streaming, voice-over, and content creation, the MaonoCaster AME2 is a great choice. It’s easy to use, has crystal-clear audio recording, and a stylish design that will make your home studio look professional.

Pros

• Up to 11 customized sound pads to enhance your podcast atmosphere
• Excellent performance with superior preamp
• Designed for live-streaming

Cons

• May need post-production increase in volume
• Sound pads can be challenging to set up
• Some users report issues with Bluetooth connectivity

The MaonoCaster AME2 has a lot of great features that make it stand out from other audio interfaces.

One of its best features is the ability to customize up to 11 sound pads to enhance your podcasting atmosphere.

You can upload your favorite audio for podcast recording via smartphone, PC, microphone, or Bluetooth device. The sound pads support recording a max 60s audio effect each and one-key looping, while 8 ones for 20s audio effect. Moreover, you can adjust the volume of each sound pad.

The built-in quality pre-amps and support phantom power for best performance of XLR microphone.

AME2A features with 3-level mic gain adjustment, supporting ultra-low noise gain up to 60dB, high-end dynamic microphones.

32Bit high-performance chipset and DENOISE function will provide a clearer sound.

The MaonoCaster AME2 is designed for live-streaming and has many inputs and outputs to connect your computer or tablet, smartphone, studio monitor, AUX-IN jack, XLR condenser/dynamic microphone, or guitar/bass.

IK Multimedia AXE I/O SOLO

The IK Multimedia AXE I/O SOLO is an exceptional audio interface for guitar recording. Its advanced features and excellent sound quality make it a great choice for anyone looking to get the most out of their guitar recordings.

Pros

• The active/passive pickup selector is a great feature that ensures the best possible tone when recording with different types of pickups.
• The Z-TONE control allows for unique impedance adapting, providing sharper or bolder tones from a single guitar or bass.
• The ground-isolated amp out eliminates the need for a DI box or reamp box, making it easy to try different gear settings without recording countless takes.

Cons

• The software that comes with the interface is somewhat lacking, and may not be suitable for all users.
• The control panel and driver department could use some improvement, as some users have experienced issues with LED lights and other features.
• Some users have reported difficulty with technical support from IK Multimedia.

One of the standout features of the AXE I/O SOLO is its active/passive pickup selector. This feature allows you to match pickup types with your guitar or bass to ensure the best possible tone when recording.

In actual use, the sound quality of the AXE I/O SOLO is exceptional, thanks to its high-resolution, class A mic preamp, 24-bit, 192 kHz sound quality, and wide frequency response.

The interface is easy to navigate, and the Z-TONE control allows for unique impedance adapting, providing sharper or bolder tones from a single guitar or bass.

The ground-isolated amp out eliminates the need for a DI box or reamp box, making it easy to try different gear settings without recording countless takes.

Overall, the IK Multimedia AXE I/O SOLO is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality audio interface for guitar recording.

Its advanced features and excellent sound quality make it a great investment for anyone serious about their guitar recordings.

Apogee Jam Plus – Portable USB Audio Interface for Guitars, Bass, Keyboards and Instruments, Works with iOS, MAC OS and Windows PC, Made in USA

If you’re looking for a portable and easy-to-use audio interface to record your guitar, bass, or keyboard, the Apogee Jam Plus is a great choice. With high-quality audio capture and a range of features, this device is perfect for musicians on the go.

Pros

• Pro instrument tone for capturing every detail in high-quality audio
• Bundled with BIAS FX Jam software for professional amp emulations
• Compatible with Mac, Windows, and any iOS device

Cons

• Some reviewers have reported difficulty setting up the free software
• Instrument level indicator LEDs may not function properly on some devices
• Volume challenges reported when using an electric bass on Windows 10 and Windows 11

One of the standout features of this device is the ability to transform your pristine direct signal into a rich, warm overdrive that can provide everything from a clean boost to a thick distortion in the tradition of the most coveted vintage amps and stompboxes.

With the included BIAS FX Jam software, you’ll have access to a premium selection of 3 amps, 6 effects, and a collection of essential pedals, making it easy to get started recording right away.

The device is also compatible with Mac, Windows, and any iOS device, so you can use it with your favorite recording software or app. Additionally, the Blend feature lets you listen and record with zero latency, so you can easily adjust how much direct signal input you hear mixed with software playback.

With its range of features and compatibility with a variety of devices, it’s a versatile option for recording and playing music on the go.

Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface

If you’re a recording engineer or producer on a budget who needs to record multiple inputs, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface is a great choice. With its high-performance converters and improved A-D and D-A conversion, your recordings and playback will sound clear and pronounced up to 24-bit/192kHz.

Pros

• Four of the best performing mic preamps the Scarlett range has ever seen, now with switchable Air mode to give your recordings a brighter and more open sound.
• Eight balanced line inputs for connecting synthesizers, drum machine and other line-level sources.
• Speaker switching technology for dual monitor setups.

Cons

• No Thunderbolt connectivity.
• Some users may find the Focusrite Control software a bit complicated to navigate.
• The unit is a bit bulky and heavy.

The Scarlett 18i8’s standout feature is its mic preamps with optional Air setting to reproduce the Air effect of their original ISA mic preamp, giving your vocal or acoustic recordings a brighter and more open sound. In testing, the preamps are clean and transparent, with plenty of gain available.

The eight balanced line inputs are also a great feature, allowing you to connect a lot of of line-level sources. The unit is well-built and designed to stand up to days on the road, making it a great choice for touring musicians and recording engineers who need to adapt to their recording environment.

One Amazon reviewer said, “I’ve been using the Scarlett 18i8 for about a year now, and it’s been a great interface. The mic preamps are very clean and transparent, and the switchable Air mode is a nice bonus. The eight balanced line inputs are also a great feature, allowing me to connect a variety of line-level sources. The unit is well-built and designed to stand up to days on the road, making it a great choice for touring musicians and recording engineers who need to adapt to their recording environment.”

Another reviewer said, “The Scarlett 18i8 is a great interface for anyone who needs to record multiple inputs. The mic preamps are very clean and transparent, and the switchable Air mode is a nice bonus. The eight balanced line inputs are also a great feature, allowing me to connect a variety of line-level sources. The unit is well-built and designed to stand up to days on the road, making it a great choice for touring musicians and recording engineers who need to adapt to their recording environment.”

M-Audio AIR 192×14

If you’re looking for a versatile and high-performance audio interface, the M-Audio AIR 192×14 is a great choice. The professional-grade metal chassis, crystal-clear pre-amps, and pristine A/D converters, this interface delivers top-notch audio quality.

Pros

• Easy to use with an intuitive interface
• Low latency for fast and accurate recording
• Multiple inputs and outputs for versatile recording options

Cons

• Some users have reported issues with driver compatibility
• May be too complex for beginners
• Expensive compared to other audio interfaces on the market

One of the standout features of the M-Audio AIR 192×14 is its specially designed gain and impedance stage for guitar and bass inputs.

Testers found that this feature really made a difference in the accuracy and clarity of my recordings. The included software bundle is also a great bonus, with a range of professional-grade tools and effects for musicians and producers.

The M-Audio AIR 192×14 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a high-quality audio interface with plenty of features and versatility. The quality and performance of this here equipment makes it worth the investment.

IK Multimedia iRig 2 Portable Guitar Audio Interface

Looking for a portable guitar audio interface that is easy to use and compatible with Apple devices? The IK Multimedia iRig 2 might be the answer.

Pros

• Plug and play simplicity on every device
• Connect to amplifier without additional accessories
• Compatible with new generation Apple iPhone through the lightning to headphone adaptor

Cons

• Volume control can be difficult to manage
• Some effects may not work as expected
• May not provide studio-quality sound

The iRig 2 is a lightweight and portable guitar audio interface that works with Apple devices, making it a great choice for musicians on the go. It has an adjustable gain dial and built-in 1/8″ TRRS output connector, it offers a true plug-and-play experience. Plus, its new 1/4” output jack lets you use it with an amplifier as a part of your live rig without the use of an adaptor.

One of the standout features of the iRig 2 is its compatibility with new generation Apple iPhone through the lightning to headphone adaptor. This means you can easily record high-quality audio right to your mobile device. Use the built-in 1/8″ headphone output or 1/4″ amplifier output to listen to audio with headphones or amplifier.

Paired with AmpliTube CS (free) for iOS, IK’s powerful guitar and bass multi-effects processor, the iRig 2 provides you with a vast library of meticulously modeled virtual stompbox effects, amplifiers. It also features a switch that lets you select between a processed signal and a clean “thru” input signal, so you can use your mobile device as a tuner, recorder or other tool while preserving the purity of a 100% analog signal path.

Focusrite Scarlett Solo Studio 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface and Recording Bundle

Who doesn’t love bundle?

If you’re a singer-songwriter looking for a simple, all-in-one solution for recording, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo Studio 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface and Recording Bundle is a great choice.

The bundle includes a Scarlett Solo USB audio interface, condenser microphone, 3-meter XLR microphone cable, closed-back headphones, and free software, so you can start making music right away.

The Scarlett Solo is also designed to be durable and portable, making it a great option for musicians on the go.

Pros

• Switchable Air mode for a brighter and more open sound
• High-performance AD-DA converters for professional sound quality
• Intuitive Gain Halo metering to prevent clipping or distortion

Cons

• May not be suitable for advanced recording needs
• Some users report issues with software compatibility
• Condenser microphone may not be ideal for all recording situations

One of the standout features of the Scarlett Solo is the switchable Air mode, which gives vocal and acoustic recordings a brighter and more open sound. In actual use, this feature really helps bring out the natural tone of a guitar or vocals.

The high-performance AD-DA converters also ensure that recordings sound professional and pristine. However, the bundle may not be suitable for more advanced recording needs, and some users have reported issues with software compatibility.

Donner Livejack-M USB Audio Interface

If you’re looking for a versatile and easy-to-use audio interface for recording music, the Donner Livejack-M USB Audio Interface is a great choice. With its wide compatibility and high-quality audio, it’s perfect for musicians and podcasters alike.

Pros

• Easy to set up and use, even for beginners
• Wide compatibility with USB-C, Apple adapters, and multiple devices
• High-quality audio with up to 192kHz/24Bit digital recording

Cons

• May require additional driver download for Windows systems
• Some users have reported minor sound quality issues
• Short USB cable may be inconvenient for some setups

One of the main features of the Donner Livejack-M USB Audio Interface is its ability to provide direct monitoring and recording for high-definition sound.

In actual use, this means that you can adjust the monitoring volume control and switch between direct and software-processed monitoring to ensure that your recordings sound their best.

In addition to its monitoring features, the Donner Livejack-M USB Audio Interface is also incredibly versatile and easy to use. It’s USB-C port and included adapters make it compatible with a wide range of devices including computers, tablets, and smartphones.

The Donner Livejack-M USB Audio Interface is another great choice for anyone looking for a versatile and easy-to-use audio interface for recording music. With its high-quality audio, direct monitoring and recording, and wide compatibility, it’s a great budget option for the musician or podcaster who hasn’t been spoiled by high-end studio kit.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying the best guitar audio interface, there are several factors to consider before making a purchase. Here are some key features to keep in mind:

Compatibility

Make sure the interface you choose is compatible with your computer operating system and DAW software. Some interfaces may only work with certain software or operating systems, so it’s important to check before making a purchase.

Input and Output Options

Consider how many inputs and outputs you need for your recording setup. If you plan on recording multiple instruments or microphones simultaneously, you’ll want an interface with multiple inputs. Similarly, if you plan on using studio monitors or headphones, look for an interface with multiple outputs.

Latency

Latency refers to the delay between when you play a note on your guitar and when you hear the sound through your computer. Low latency is important for recording and playing in real-time, so look for an interface with low latency.

Sample Rate and Bit Depth

The sample rate and bit depth determine the quality of the audio recorded. Higher sample rates and bit depths result in higher-quality audio, but also require more processing power from your computer. Consider your computer’s capabilities when choosing an interface with high sample rates and bit depths.

Product Recommendations

Product	Rating	Quote from Review
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2	4.5 stars	“The sound quality is fantastic and it’s very easy to use.”
Presonus AudioBox USB 96	4.4 stars	“Great sound quality and easy to use with my Mac.”
Behringer U-Phoria UM2	4.4 stars	“Excellent value for the price, and it works great for recording guitar.”

Main Feature: Preamps

One important feature to consider when choosing an audio interface for guitar recording is the quality of the preamps. Preamps amplify the signal from your guitar before it is recorded, and can greatly affect the overall sound quality. Look for interfaces with high-quality preamps for the best sound.

When choosing a guitar audio interface, look for interfaces with high ratings and positive reviews, and make sure they have the features you need for your recording setup. With the right interface and practice, you can achieve professional-quality recordings from the comfort of your own home.