An Audio Interface is probably one of the first things that artists, DJs, and beatmakers who are just starting out in recording and production will buy. Finding a solution that offers all the essential features of an interface, such as the ability to record instruments, listen to output on studio headphones, and playback on studio monitors, while also being reasonably priced, is the task at hand.
Other elements that suit your preferences or requirements are something else to seek for. For instance, you could like some of these interfaces’ Mix option, which combines the amount of playback versus signal entering the system. Or perhaps you adore the Scarlett interfaces’ Air feature. To truly decide which interface is ideal for you, pay close attention to what different interfaces have to offer beyond I/O. Below we have mentioned Best Audio Interfaces Under $100.
7 Best Audio Interfaces Under $100
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96
The PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 digital audio interface demonstrates that a cutting-edge, all-in-one, high-performance recording studio or command centre may be installed without spending a considerable amount. You may record, mix, and edit your recordings in real time with these all-in-one products’ high-quality sound and signal transmission.
When you purchase this audio interface, you get a high-quality 12-channel sound interface with gain-boost, a front panel user control, a thorough help manual, and easy-to-follow instructions. It also has two line outputs, two balanced line outputs with one footswitch, and two mono input/outputs. Overall, this is one of the Best Audio Interfaces Under $100 that you can buy right now.
Presonus Studio 24c
There are audio interfaces designed to serve particular musical genres, as, for instance, guitarists. Then there are jack-of-all-trades, which attempt to perform a variety of tasks from speech to music. Regardless of the type of recording or production you’re aiming to do, the Presonus Studio 24c is firmly in the latter category and offers great quality. Overall, it is one of the Best Audio Interfaces Under $100 that you can buy.
We especially appreciate the accompanying Universal Control programme, which lets the interface essentially “loop back” on itself. Both artists and streamers will find this to be quite flexible for routing audio across various apps without the need for additional wires. The unit’s MIDI connector on the back is a nice addition and the build quality is strong.
Moukey USB 3.0
A brand-new, lightweight, and compact gadget that provides contemporary ease and high-quality recording is the Moukey USB 3.0 audio interface. Recording has never been simpler or more practical than it is now thanks to this new interface. It is perfect for both Mac and PC users due to its small size and simplicity of use.
The interface provides high-quality sound reproduction in addition to the portability’s convenience. Four USB ports, a FireWire port, MIDI, and digital optical audio input and output are among the simple connectivity options it offers the user. The device also has a user-friendly software application in addition to these functions. Still, it is one of the Best Audio Interfaces Under $100 that you can consider.
ART USB Dual Pre
Each of the two fully-balanced XLR/TRS combination inputs on the ART USB Dual Pre is capable of producing up to 48 dB of clean gain. Each input contains a 48 V phantom power supply as well as clip and signal LEDs. Additionally, they feature individual channel gain knobs, which is fantastic for a small, portable device. Although there is a lot on the back panel, despite its modest size, it is still quite useful. There are balanced TRS monitor outputs on it, as well as a 1/8″ headphone output. Again, each has a control at a personal level.
There are three different ways to power the USB Dual Pre: through USB, a 12 V power supply (not included), or a 9 V battery. Before you even get to the capabilities of the audio interface, the USB Dual Pre makes a very interesting dedicated microphone preamp. The outputs can feed your monitors or serve as regular preamp outputs. Easily one of the Best Audio Interfaces Under $100 available on the market.
M-Audio M-Track Solo
For both live performance and studio recording, the M-Audio M-Track Solo USB audio interface offers a crystal-clear, audible output with top-notch performance. The integrated mixer is incredibly simple to set up and use, and the preamp portion is very useful when you need extra power and monitoring capabilities.
You get superb sound reproduction via the strong 6-volt preamp system, which powers the speakers efficiently. Additionally powerful and ideal for live performances are the front channels. You can get rid of background noise with the use of phantom power. Additionally, mixing via a Firewire connection is greatly aided by the two channels of 48 kHz audio resolution. Thus, this product is one of the Best Audio Interfaces Under $100 available right now.
Audient iD4 MkII
It seems like just yesterday that Audient unveiled the iD4, its smallest audio interface to date. The Audient iD4 MkII is intriguing since there’s always space for improvement. The MkII builds on the sturdy construction, excellent audio fidelity, and simplicity that made the first iteration popular while introducing higher USB transfer speeds and USB-C compatibility.
The additional headphone output and the clever scroll wheel, which can be used to modify software settings, are two great extras. Furthermore, the included ARC package has a tonne of plugins, effects, and virtual instruments to help you get up and running quickly. Although it could cost a little more than the other interfaces in this list, overall, it’s a rather complete product. Currently, this is one of the Best Audio Interfaces Under $100 that you can buy right now.
Tascam US-1x2HR
With the Tascam US-1x2HR audio interface, you may record and mix in a very professional manner while completing a wide range of recording and mixing jobs. The audio interface can give you the clean, clear sound of professional tape monitors without the restrictions and drawbacks frequently associated with utilizing conventional recording equipment when used in conjunction with a phantom power source.
These devices may work with only one speaker and have a very long connection, making them perfect for placement in professional studios or wherever else you would need rear speakers. So, if you want one of the Best Audio Interfaces Under $100, we highly recommend this product.
Conclusion
Realistically, you won’t find a good audio interface with more than two inputs and two outputs when you’re looking at the most affordable audio interfaces. The maximum number of inputs you can record with, unless you’re willing to spend more, is two mono or one stereo input. The maximum number of outputs is a stereo pair for studio monitors and a separate headphone output. However, this is a reasonable set of guidelines for beginners to work within.