The Best Usb Audio Interface For Guitar of May: Reviews & Buyers Guide
Erling Will May 29, 2023 6:06 PM
If you are a guitar player looking to record your music, a USB audio interface is an essential piece of equipment to have. A USB audio interface allows you to connect your guitar to your computer, providing high-quality recording and playback capabilities. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. In this guide, we will explore the best USB audio interfaces for guitar, their features, and what to consider before making a purchase.
The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is a great choice for solo guitarists or those who want to record vocals along with their guitar. It features a single XLR/TS combo input, high-quality preamps, and a direct monitor switch for zero-latency monitoring. The interface is also compact and portable, making it easy to take on the go. However, it only has one input, so it may not be suitable for recording multiple instruments or microphones at the same time.
- 2. Cheapest: Behringer U-Phoria UM2 USB Audio Interface
The Behringer U-Phoria UM2 is an affordable option for guitarists who are just starting to record. It has a simple design with one microphone/instrument input, 48V phantom power for condenser microphones, and a direct monitor switch for zero-latency monitoring. However, it may not have the same preamp quality as higher-end interfaces, and it only has one input.
- 3. Best Overall: Behringer U-Phoria UMC22 USB Audio Interface
The Behringer U-Phoria UMC22 is a step up from the UM2, featuring two combination inputs for microphone and instrument recording, a 48V phantom power switch, and a direct monitor switch for zero-latency monitoring. It also includes a free software package for recording and editing. However, some users have reported issues with driver compatibility, and the preamp quality may not be as high as more expensive interfaces.
The M-Audio M-Track Solo is a budget-friendly option for guitarists looking to record and stream their music. It features a single XLR/TS combo input with phantom power, direct monitor switch, and a headphone output with level control. It also includes a free software package for recording and editing. However, like the Focusrite Scarlett Solo, it only has one input and may not be suitable for recording multiple instruments or microphones simultaneously.
- 5. Best Durable: PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 25th Anniversary Edition with Studio One
The PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is a high-quality interface with two combo inputs and MIDI input/output, making it a great choice for guitarists who also play keyboard. It also includes a free software package, Studio One Artist, for recording, editing, and mixing. The interface also features high-quality preamps, a direct monitor switch, and phantom power. However, it may be more expensive than other options on this list and may have a steeper learning curve for beginners.
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Source: The GarageBand Guide
When shopping for a USB audio interface for guitar, here are some things to consider:
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Number of inputs: Consider how many instruments and/or microphones you will be recording simultaneously. If you plan on recording multiple instruments or recording with a band, you will need an interface with multiple inputs.
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Preamp quality: The preamp is responsible for amplifying the signal from your guitar or microphone. Look for an interface with high-quality preamps to ensure that your recordings sound great.
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Compatibility: Make sure that the interface you choose is compatible with your computer and recording software. Some interfaces may require specific drivers or software to function properly.
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Additional features: Consider any additional features you may need, such as MIDI input/output or phantom power for condenser microphones.
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Budget: USB audio interfaces come in a wide range of prices, so consider how much you are willing to spend before making a purchase.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best USB audio interface for your needs and start recording your guitar music with ease.
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After researching and comparing various USB audio interfaces for guitar, we have identified the following top picks:
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Focusrite Scarlett 2i2: This is a popular choice for guitarists due to its low latency and high-quality preamps. It also includes two combination inputs, allowing for both microphone and instrument recording.
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Behringer U-Phoria UM2: This is an affordable option for those on a budget. It has a simple design with one microphone/instrument input and includes a free software package for recording.
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PreSonus AudioBox iTwo: This interface includes two combo inputs and MIDI input/output, making it a great choice for guitarists who also play keyboard. It also comes with a free recording software package.
When choosing a USB audio interface, it's important to consider factors such as the number of inputs, preamp quality, compatibility with your computer, and additional features such as MIDI input/output. It's also essential to ensure that the interface you choose is compatible with your recording software.