Another thumbs up for Motu M2 M4. I and several of my friends sorted out issues we were having with interfaces that did make your list by switching to Motu. Rock solid build and performance.
I upgraded and now use a presonus live mixer as my interface .The capabilities I have on a board was a game changer for tracking and rehearsals plus it’s so ideal for live streaming I know no one was asking but I’m happy with the switch to a hybrid mixer interface system
Since it's not featured, I'm gonna shout for the SSL2+ which I've been using for a few weeks now. It's just brilliant. Sound quality, build quality and the bundle that comes with it are all amazing. I understand the list in this vid is generated by popularity but I think the SSL2 and 2+ are among the strongest competitors in terms of what you get for your cash. Not an SSL employee btw 😂 just a very happy customer!
That’s what I’m saying. I picked up the SSL2+ for its midi ins/outs and I absolutely love it. Stable drivers with Windows (more stable than Focusrite’s in my experience at least on Windows), and a fantastic sound that evokes analog.
@@KBizzy yeah man totally. I switched away from Focusrite and I'm not looking back. SSL2+ works seemlessly with Windows for me too. It's a competitive market but SSL have such a great rep at the high end I think it's a matter of time they break into that top 10.
I was inclined to go in for the S+ but it felt short because of limited inputs and outputs.....if they had 4 I/O along with MIDI..... I ve been a really HAPPY RME BABYFACE PRO CUSTOMER and just might buy an extra one unless SSL steps up.
I chose the MOTU M4 as my first interface, it shows up in a few days. Based on all of the research I've been doing on budget interfaces, I think it's going to work out well, super exited to get it!
I've been a Motu user for years and had a 828mk2 for about 15 years (seriously the thing refused to die lol) and just recently upgraded to the new(ish) Motu 828ES which is fantastic and hopefully i'll get 10+ years out of this one too haha...
MOTU 828Mk2 user here as well. Had it since circa 2005 and still working except the back light has dimmed a bit. I am looking at getting the MOTU 828es because I am building a new computer and not looking to use fire wire anymore, plus the ES has a talk back button. I am sure the ES is going to last just as long.
Yeah but honestly, I used 2 and they broke down on me waaay too quick. Not going for another one for sure. I also got loads of driver issues over the years.
Nice job!! I appreciate how you preface it as a list based on popularity. I've owned multiple Focusrite, Claretts and others, Presonous, and others. Motu, like the 8 Pre-Es is the best overall solution for me.. great control program and hardware, ability to use it standalone; and AVB capable. I stay with almost nothing but Motu these days. Just my input, as you said it's based on popularity. Many of the other solution's control drivers just don't utilize the hardware like the Motus do.
Hey there I went from a 18i8 Scarlett to a clarett 8preusb and a wa73preamp. Can you give me some details why you would pick certain interfaces over this one? Thanks for your time.
@@RoxwellZ I had a Clarett and a Presonus, so it's somewhat experience. The Personus was particular using the Thunderbolt, seemed like it produced noise unless certain sample rates were used. The Clarett was nice but the control software was not on the same planet with what Motu uses for hardware like the 8pre-es or 624. I am using it for a voice and sound studio with mics in studio and interviews with callers from the computer or smartphone, so within the control program Motu allows one to configure the mix minus and the entire environment easily. Focusrite requires some odd cabling etc to do the mix minus. But on the sheer quality of the hardware, Clarett and Motu AVB devices have similar low noise, amp gain, dynamic range etc. Both work well. The marriage of hw and sw that Motu does is tremendous, and their support is great.
Your timing is perfect with this one Mike. I was talking to a friend only this morning about a home studio he wants to set up. I have already told him abut your tutorials, especially as he is considering Cakewalk as his DAW but I shall send him a link to this video as I am sure he will find it informative. Many thanks. By the way, I use a Focusrite 8i6 as I wanted the midi inputs and have been really pleased with everything about it.
I have to agree with Mike here about the Focusrite 8i6, as the no midi inputs would be a show stopper for me. I need these to communicate with my Voicelive 2 for instant harmony using midi signals to directly control the live harmony.
@@johnbrunskill9469 I have a midi keyboard that has midi out but my audio interface does not have midi ins and outs. Does it make a difference that I connect the midi keyboard straight to the laptop? Should I return my focusrite solo and get one that has midi ins? thanks
I use the Behringer XR18 for recording bands. The XR18 in fact is a 18Channel Mixer with a USB jack. I chose that one because I wanted to have more than the usual 8 XLR/Combo Ins without spending too much money... and the sound quality is pretty good...
You failed to mention the MOTU M4. I bought a focusrite 8l6 last year and was not happy with it, replaced it with the M4 and the M4 is the best interface I’ve ever used. Very solid with great sound. The 8i6 was very finicky and the mixing software was horribly designed
I have the same expirience, with Motu. Best decision , The A/D Converter sound like from a 3000 € Interface. Build Quality is like a Tank and with some muscle inside the pc, they get extremly fast latency times.
I just bought the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen interface and am VERY pleased with it's sound quality and low latency. Great box. I can totally understand why Focusrite dominates this list.
Another vote for the SSL2/2+ over here, I ended up with the '2' cos they were out of stock of the '2+', served me flawlessly and the '4K' button brightens the sound beautifully, but I'm new to this game so I don't really count much. Though I do have a question about price/quality, according to the video it seems the price mainly relates to the number of ins/outs, is there a quality increase also (and can you hear it) ?
Great video! These are obviously the popular best selling interfaces. Price and marketing are what determines popularity and sales figures. I’d imagine next years list will include the sl2 as it seems to be gaining a lot of fans. But what is the “best” interface? That depends on your needs, but if the parameters are sound quality, build quality and reliability, then you may want to steer away from mass produced consumer products and look to the more pro end of the market. Anything by UA , apogee, antelope or RME are likely the true “best”. Case in point I used an audient id22 professionally for my voice over business. The drivers did weird things sometimes, like forget all my settings or just not load. And a couple of weeks ago the unit died. Contacted Audient support (who are great by the way) and was told it would need a new main board. Out of warranty repair price was half what I paid for the unit itself. As a professional, I had to choose if I was going to repair an already frustrating unit or go in a different direction. I sold some other gear and invested in an RME baby face pro fs. Suffice to say, it is a massive upgrade in sound quality and user experience. My signal chain is a TLM 103 into an isa 430mk 2 and now the baby face. What I realised is that the audient was probably a bit of a bottleneck. My audio sounds fuller, richer, and cleaner. More detailed. If you want the absolute best, you do need to pay for it. But if you’re podcasting or recording rough demos or whatever, then just get the device that has the features you need. Don’t overspend if it won’t actually make a meaningful difference to your end product.
i believe you are in the minority about Audient's sound. Most pros believe RME sounds plastic. Audient sounds analogue comparatively. May be ur audient was faulty?
@@kofiassor2164 my signal chain doesn’t include the preamps on either unit. Just the AD conversion. Audient is great when it’s working, but I had reliability issues. RME are known for their build quality and reliability. Most of my colour comes from the ISA preamp. As a pro who has owned and used both units, I rate the RME higher. If it was just a mic straight into the unit maybe I’d think differently. But not every pro wants their interface to colour their sound, especially in my industry. They want control over that colour, so they use analogue channel strips and outboard preamps. Just my perspective.
@@kofiassor2164 I run a short XLR from my ISA to trs on the babyface pro fs input. I may try xlr to xlr because the babyface preamps have transparent input buffers so I could control the gain and colour from my ISA. but I've yet to experiment.
I'm using a Universal Audio Apollo x4 Thunderbolt 3 audio interface. The compact desktop style with onboard big knob, function buttons, and LED metering works well for me. A perfect match for my MacBook Pro 16" laptop. Portable enough that I can take this interface and laptop from my control room to other rooms where I record vocals and other instruments. A must since I'm a one-man-band solo artist. I love the UAD plug-ins. They are the icing on the cake!
RME UFX+ with Antelope Audio GoliathHD. Grab a MADI cable and we're set. It's a great setup. A real head-scratcher to get running though. The RME is rock solid as everyone claims, but my computer did not recognize the USB Playback ports until I tried a different USB socket in the back of my computer. Also, Antelope Audio stuff is as finicky as everyone claims. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. Even in "standalone mode" the GoliathHD may take three or four restarts before it remembers it's an audio interface.
Motu is really amazing. I wanted the the Motu M4 but then came delivery waiting time around 1,5month and i got the M2, because i have a really good analog mixer and can live with that 2 inputs. For Multitrack recordings i use any also my elektron synths. Motu is really fast when you have enough power under your pc. And they have amazin A/D Converter i heared so far in that price range. I am more as happy with Motu
Great list!!! I’ve been using a Focusrite Clarett 8Pre and it’s amazing! I recently purchased a UAD Apollo twin X and have switched to using it as my main interface and my Clarett as the mixer via ADAT. What a wonderful combo!
I think the motu m2/m4 should have replaced one of the scarlett, especially the motu m2, considering the absolutely superior quality over fucusrite. It is a bit more expensive however
The only problem with the Motu m4 is that they’re impossible to get right now, I had one on backorder for months and cancelled and ended up getting something that was in stock. I’d still like to buy one someday but I’ll wait until I can find one that’s in stock. I had a Motu 2408 with a pci card years ago that sounded great so I’m already convinced the M4 will sound great in person.
I use a first generation Focusrite 2i2. It has never missed a beat in years. I work on the basis - if it aint broke don't fix it. A good video would be to show what the "Air" feature sounds like - so guys like me can decide if we should upgrade
I personally had a 1st Gen... Scarlett 18i8 and loved it... Or so I thought. Once I upgraded to clarett..(8preusb) (I considered the 3rd gen but went with the clarett) the difference was astounding. Very happy I made the jump. At the same time. I also bought a wa73 preamp... I love the finished sound of the wa73 (but if I want to get detailed in mixing I prefer the dry clarett signal without air. As a mutli versed artist. I scream sing rap and rock... For screaming the air is cool. For rapping I like the air off.. (tighter words) the wa73 I would definitely add to singers. On rockers the clarett is great. As for my Scarlett... The difference makes me want to sell my 18i8... Haven't felt any need for it yet... But figure I'll save it in case I record bands.
I bought the IK Multimedia Axe I/O earlier this year and this is a super good interface, especially for guitar players, with a reamping option. By the way, I completely shifted to IK Multimedia with Total Studio Max (with Amplitube 4 and T-Racks 5, Miroslav Philharmonic etc), ARC 3 System aseveral other plugins. Love them!
I'm using a Steinberg UR242. It works really well. I like the built in DSP FX, especially the compressor. I've had it for about a year and so far there haven't been any problems. My first audio interface was a Lexicon Alpha. It didn't work well on Windows 8.1 and I haven't tested it on Windows 10. There were a lot of problems with my USB master keyboards, hanging notes, dropped out notes. All that went away when I purchased the Steinberg interface. It works well with Cakewalk by Bandlab and Studio One.
Do you also have these issues under windows 10 that sometimes you get crackling noise in your headphones while being in discord or in a game csgo for example
I use this interface Roland Octa Capture 10x10: Combining ten inputs, ten outputs, and eight VS PREAMPS with transparent 24-bit/192 kHz audio quality, the Roland OCTA-CAPTURE sets a new standard for portable USB 2.0 audio interfaces. High-level audio production comes easy with this fusion of premium components, Roland-quality engineering, and proprietary preamp and streaming technology.
Audient ID44 has great preamps, great conversion, can be expanded from 4 to 20 channels, has very low latency, and is solid as a rock. And it won´t break the bank. I´m amazed at the quality for the price.
How funny. I recently bought the number one just for use with my laptop when not at home. Otherwise a RME Fireface has.served me well for 14 years in my home studio.
I recently replaced my Roland Duo Capture EX with a Behringer UMC4040HD it has 4 input & 4 outputs, direct monitoring and a midi interface. I am very happy with it for $178 USD! It doesn't have onboard effects but I haven't needed that I haven't had issues with latency or maxed out my cpu / memory. I have plans for a portable band recording setup later and I'm not sure what interface I will buy but cost is definately a concern. I have only one bad experience with an interface and that was Maudio . I couldn't get the driver to work on windows and on the mac the latency was horrible and was basically unusable. But that was about 18 years ago. My Roland lasted many years but was starting to make horrible noises in the speakers when I first turned it on and stayed that way for about 15 seconds. But I believe it served me well for 6 years or so. So I figured it was time and I wanted a couple more inputs anyway.
I also have a Behringer UMC404HD and have been very happy with it. I'm still trying to figure out why so many UA-camrs sleep on Behringer, yet they gush over Focusrite despite the much higher price tags for lesser capabilities.
Hello Mike and thanks again for a great review. It was interesting to see your list but not surprising. I replaced my Motu 828mk2 as my main interface due to no updated drivers for windows 10. It now connects by ADAT to my new Audient iD 14. I picked this iF because of its specs and windows drivers. I wish it had midi connections but midi still works if I turn on the motu. Thanks again. BTW the vocals you and your wife did on the last video were awesome. Much respect.
Absolutely LOVE my Focustire Scarlet 2i2. I run that into a MSI GS63 Stealth RGB laptop using Amplitube 4. I'm probably going to upgrade Amplitube to 5 though.
Excellent. I especially liked the way that you specified the actual number of physical inputs on the devices. I remember when I was shopping for a new interface and I required a large number of analogue inputs. I found the claims of I/Os by manufacturers very confusing, on one occasion even resorting to counting the I/Os on the images on the manufacturers website. So kudos for that. Oops, I almost forgot to like your video. There we go.
Great Video. I am currently using an Arturia Audiofuse Studio. Really great pre-amps! They have a cool 10db boost feature that gives an honest 72DB of gain. In addition it includes all of the other connections that you need in a small desktop footprint. Its not cheap but it punches way above its weight in the sound quality department. I have a UA Twin quad that I am using in the other room. I like the detail and gain from the Arturia’s pres better than my Quad. Its the closest thing I have to the Prism gear I have at work.
I'm currently using an Audient iD22. Perfect for me, as it's high quality, has inserts, which allow me to use outboard devices, and I only need two channels.
A little surprised there were none from Native Instruments, but then, you did say the competition is pretty fierce. However, not surprised at no Behringer!
I am currently using a Soundcraft UI24R. The flexibility and number of inputs and outputs for the price is just amazing. Totally a digital mixer though and NOT specifically designed as a studio interface. Love it to death though. Great video!
I use the Focusrite Clarett 8pre, love that thing to the core. Did the upgrade after using the Focusrite Saffire Pro40.. but since the firewire interface was discontinued and thus expensions were no longer available (new that is), I needed to get rid of it and switched to the Clarett. Right from the get go, the Clarett sounds way bigger, such a warm, rich and transparent sound it has, where the Saffire Pro40 sounded almost flat like a wet cardboard box. But, one day I'd probably upgrade to an Antelope Goliath III, which has the perfect out of the box sound for me. Good video, great job!
Clarret is noticably better than the Scarlett but they're the same , a huge boost in sound quality is heard when upgrading to uad instead of wasting money on the Clarett
@@ifiwantyoutofeel Well, that's just a taste of preference I guess. In my opinion, spending almost fout times the money on an interface which isn't four times as good, is wasting money. I've worked with the UAD Apollo 8 and yeah it sounded great, but I'd never buy it because of it's insane price. Then again, it's all a matter of taste
The BEST audio interface I have tried so far is that thing i won on auction.. It is StudioLive 16R (R-means rack unit). It is not the cheap gear you gonna see on the shelf but I was super lucky and got one of these babies for half price on auction from a music store that went bankrupt because of the pandemic. I do not know how they made it but there is probably some sort of fast processor inside because i can load all 16 inputs with sound at the same time and use VST (not the hardware plugins) inside Studio One 5 and still get ZERO latency. It have built in basic mixer FX and sound modulators but even when using VSTS on every channel I get zero latency. I see latency on mixer but it does some sort of magic giving me ZERO! If you are a singer or a guitarist or any other instrument player, I would strongly recommend this unit. With 16 channels it will fire up entire band. It is not cheap, but worth saving some cash for it and investing it, because it is a mixer with built in audio interface that support 16in and 8 out, but you can expand it and still get ZERO latency because it have few types of networks.. One main network it uses is AVB (audio video bridging) and other output is for your regular router so you can control your mixer from phone, tablet or whatever you have at your hand. You can buy a special switch from presonus and combine AVB network protocol with Dante network and get all your Dante channels on your mixer. In beginning mixer seem too complicated, but just contact your PreSonus support and they will sit down with you and help you to learn your mixer andteach you how to use it. They are very nice people. Now theis is NOT a beginner home studio grade audio interface, but a highly professional gear, but if you can aford this then look no further because you will get absolute ZERO latency in daw, you will have fully featured big stage mixer that you can control from phone during the gig, you will be able to use this as your stage box or FX rack all that in ONE UNIT! Cheers for the video Mike and if you wanna hear some songs I recorded 18 years ago on the most crappy equipment ever and still got a score on it and thousands of listeners then please visit this place soundcloud.com/punkpropaganda I thought this music was gone for ever, after 10 long years of looking for it at my previous fans libaries and backups I finally found a working copy! BACK UP YOUR STUFF AND DO IT WELL!
Awesome Mike, I to have been using the Studio 192 paired with a Presonus DP88. I mix in and out of the Box using two Mini Shorty Patchbays.With other pieces of Hardware for mixing and recording. They are a true work horse. Thank you for your Channel.
Yes I had a Behringer umc22 previously and had a great run out of it and got great recordings with. I upgraded to a Steinberg UR22C which is built like a tank hoping for a major improvement in recording quality but It wasn’t. I recently bought the Scarlett solo as everyone raves about them and all the specs are better than urc222 but at this early stage if it is better it’s only slightly. It’s doesn’t feel as solid or well built as the Steinberg. I still have my old Line 6 interface that I’ve had for about 15 yrs and still works perfectly and has some great sounding amp models that are equal or better than what’s on offer today.
I want an Audient interface with a DSP chip or a Presonus interface that competes with the new Steinberg URC interfaces. My heart wants an Apollo, but my wallet thinks otherwise. 😅 Great video man!
Go for Motu M2 that's the best interface great sound quality specs better than all the others in its price range. Interestingly it's output is even more powerful than the expensive apollo. The apollo monitor output is 115 dbA but Motu M2 monitor output is 120 dbA which is way more dynamic range. Even the headphone output of motu is better or equal to apollo apollo 113 vs motu 115 dbA. The Mic inputs on motu have 115dbA dynamic range which is quite good
Nice video! Ive been a MOTU user for 30 years starting with the very first MIDI time piece and MIDI mixer. My current interface, UltraLitemk4 has been great until I added a new GeForce rtx3070 card for gaming. Cannot get the mk4 to work. Tried a variety of driver uninstalls/reinstalls etc. I see you have a gaming PC in the background. Any recommendation for interfaces that play well with high end gaming cards?? I am considering just keeping the gaming on a dedicated PC at this stage. I'm desperate. Thanks in advance for any advice. Cheers. Rob
Hi Mike, well done! I think that also the brand used by myself, Tascam is worth to be mentioned here. I do use since 2 years a Tascam US 16x08 having USB2 connectivity. This one, as well as the newer brother, US-20x20 (USB3) have built in compressors and 4 band EQ for each of the 16 (1608) or 10 (2020) analog physical input channels. The Tascam US-range (the "better" consumer range) starts with the US-1x2 with 1x Mic, 1xLine (unfortunately with RCA-outputs, awkward!!!) 96 KHz and no MIDI at 97 EUR, US-2x2 with 2x combo ins, 2 x outs 96KHz, MIDI at 123 EUR US 4x4 HR with 4x combo ins, 4xouts, 2xphones out, 192KHz, MIDI at 255 EUR US-16x08 with 8x mic & 8xline ins (partially with gain & level), 8xouts, 1xphones out, 96KHz, MIDI at 299 EUR US-20x20 with 8x combo & 2xline ins (partially with gain & level), SPDIF & optical inx&outs, 10xouts, 2xphones out, 192KHz, MIDI at 499 EUR Below they have a SERIES (budget) line. But I am affraid I don't know much about them
I am still using and love my Focusrite Liquid 56, yes I know its gettin old but it still works like new and sounds great. Best still although its firewire that means it works with Thunderbolt and USB4 so will continue to be compatible for years to come, even though they refuse to update the drivers they still work perfectly with both Windows 10 and 11.
Motu m2/m4 seem to get good reviews. Focusrite seems to get very mixed reviews. I'm looking at focusrite but I'm nervous about the amount of negative reviews I read.
I've been using a Roland Oct-Capture for years now and still using it with new computer I just built...It just works and with pretty good RTL. I am considering getting a Thunderbolt interface. The latency with Presonus Quantum series is pretty impressive. I see you are using a Presonus USB 3 interface. How do you find the latency with it?
I love the Zoom interfaces. For me they have been the most reliable. I did not have much luck with any of the Focusrite interfaces, but like any technology, what works for some may not work for others.
At Home i use the Audient with a motu pre 8. I have used a focus rite 18:20 with a motu pre 8 in our rehearsal studio. I find the MOTU pre amps really great, the focus rite slightly disappointing. The Audient sounds the best for remixing (hence at home). For the band I have bought the Behringer xr18 air. Nice for live and live recordings, the pre amps are not as good as motu and have to applied with care(to much input it distorts with a crack) but you can’t win them all on a budget. I missed Motu in your review .
I've used the 18i8 1st gen. I don't care for it much though as the drivers would crash quite often. That also goes for the 2i2 and 4i4 2nd gen. Currently I'm using 2 M-Audio Profile 2626 connected via FW and adat. They work great, and the only reason I want to upgrade now is that my XLR channels are starting to tank. I have 2 channels that have very low volume and it's just not worth it to try to ressurect them at this point. I have been looking into the 18i20 3rd gen and I've heard that the new drivers are much more stable.
The Focusrite Scarlett 3rd gen line is okay, but the Scarlett line is intentionally held back to not encroach on their Clarett line for sound quality. I have the 18i20 3rd gen, which I was excited to get, but have been largely underwhelmed. The air feature does sound pretty good, it sounds good overall but not amazing as far as the conversion and pres. I do NOT like the software mixer and the way the metering works! For example, I have a synth hooked up to channel 3 and 4 (stereo input). You obviously need to get the channels the exact volume to match each other. So you turn up channel 3, the left channel. The metering will display infinity, then move up until 0 dB. Let's say you want both channels to max at -3 dB. So you turn up channel 3 slowly and miss your mark and go past -3 dB? The metering will read up, but not down. So if you lower the volume to -5 dB (for example), it will still say the peak level you went to and will only update if you either go back down and start over (clearing the meter), or click on the meter with the mouse (and that method often makes it read a false number for some ungodly reason.) It is the dumbest possible design and the biggest issue I have with the unit as a whole. If it updated up and down in real time, you could match stereo channels so easily and quickly, but they stupidly did not allow the software to do this. So to level match a stereo input, it can take you a long time to do what should take seconds to do! It takes me almost 10 minutes to level match something due to this design blunder/flaw/stupidity. I have yet to find a better way to do this. It has caused a lot of buyers remorse! I also think the Presonus 1824c (heard it), Audient Evo 8 (own it), and my Soundcraft Signature 12 MTK mixer sounds better. I used to own the MOTU M4, definitely beats it in sound quality hands down (only sold because I needed more inputs at the time).
I own a Tascam US20x20 and I think it's pretty nice. (Adat and standalone mode did the selling pitch for me). I think it is pretty good, but I am not able to compare with Pres with higher-end units. Sadly, Tascam's reputation regarding audio Interfaces is not that good regarding drivers. Nowadays, they are writing their drivers in-house I believe, and it sure helps a lot.
I just purchased a studio desk and want to buy a studio interface rack for my desk. Which would you recommend? I have the new M1 MacBook Pro..and I’m looking to spend no more than $2600. I’m wanting something for clear vocals..I prefer a lighter clean sound than a warm closed in sound.
I think clarett should be named , some of the higher priced units have got in built dsp. And they have got the real ISA preamps with AIR mode , upto dec they r running offer , i was thinking of buying , but still i will save for later of upgrade
Awesome audio Interface breakdown Mike, I really agree with your opinions too...in fact, 44.1 kHz is all I need haha. I have the Apollo Twin ( Version X ) & I hihgly recomend it over the older one.
In my case, as a home studio procucer and midi man for over 20 years my affordable choice was Audient id14 due its Audient high quality conversors. Although no Midi connections, I love the his imbattable warm sound. A little giant. PS: I don't have a acoustic drum in my studio. If I need by the way I have professional drummers that send the audio tracks from their studio. Excellent solution to avoid have a white elephant here.
I have been using a Line 6 UX2, admittedly a bit old, but it's working for me. I didn't use it much for the first years after buying it, but recently it's been getting more work. What's your opinion on it? Btw, love the videos, as always!
I used an M-Audio Fast Track Pro only up until a year 1/2 ago. I ended up getting a Focusrite 2i4 and while the sound quality was decent, their drivers gave me all sorts of headaches with my Windows machines. Just recently picked up the SSL2+ and I love it.
I've used a Line6 UX2 for over a decade. I'm primarily a guitarist and when I began recording at home this is what I chose and have used since. I have absolutely nothing negative to say about this interface and, in fact, when my original Tone Port UX2 broke (thanks, 2 year old son) I immediately bought the updated UX2.
@@moebiwan glad to hear I'm not the only one that is happy with it! Just curiosity, how did your kid break it? It seems like a quite sturdy piece of equipment to me (even though I had to replace the USB port because it broke).
@@davasei I had set it aside to prepare for a move to a new house. He tripped and fell while carrying a cup of juice and soaked it. It was a mess. Ruined an Akai MPK mini as well :)
As a pro mainly doing game music I'm amazed at the number of units having more inputs than outputs. I never use more than 2 inputs but am always needing more outs to mix. I may be old school in that I still use a hardware mixer (Audient), but am I really in such a minority to desire a 2 in 16 out? 😎 My current interface is an 24bit RME 8in 8 out...as a UAD user I'm leaning to the Apollo range.
I have n. 5 Steinberg ur22c glad as well with this... But its my First audio interface so cant compare to others but it doing for what i looked so im glad :)
Hi Jeff. On all of these they are, and show up as separate inputs. This is a good question as some digital 'mixers', although can be used as audio interfaces, sum down to only 2 channels.
I've been using a MOTU 896HD since 2003/4. I thought I'd have to replace it last year when macOS Catalina came out, but they released updated drivers, so it was put off. I'll have to see if they'll support the Apple processors with hardware that old.
What opinión the People and you Mike have about the Behringer UMC202HD. It's my interface. Some people say that it's horrible but others saying that it's like the Scarlett. Sorry my English, I'm Spanish
I'm still using my 2 Focusrite Pro 40 interface works perfect with my Octapre 8. It's firewire but rock solid for years , plan on upgrading at some point to Thunderbolt.
Just upgraded from a Scarlett to a Clarett2 pre USB and it's a great unit. Plus it comes with the Brainworx bx Focusrite console emulation, which is a dooozy of a channel strip. I'm saving up for a mic pre though and may go for Focusrite again and the ISO One or Two.
Another thumbs up for Motu M2 M4. I and several of my friends sorted out issues we were having with interfaces that did make your list by switching to Motu. Rock solid build and performance.
Motu M2/M4 are the best interface in the price range $150 to $250 and even blows away more expensive ones.
I got the M4 and I love it!
RME Babyface pro fs here. Sound, Features, Drivers... everything is awesome.
I upgraded and now use a presonus live mixer as my interface .The capabilities I have on a board was a game changer for tracking and rehearsals plus it’s so ideal for live streaming I know no one was asking but I’m happy with the switch to a hybrid mixer interface system
RME Babyface Pro is the one for me. Bought it for the sound quality. Love it!
Since it's not featured, I'm gonna shout for the SSL2+ which I've been using for a few weeks now. It's just brilliant. Sound quality, build quality and the bundle that comes with it are all amazing. I understand the list in this vid is generated by popularity but I think the SSL2 and 2+ are among the strongest competitors in terms of what you get for your cash. Not an SSL employee btw 😂 just a very happy customer!
That’s what I’m saying. I picked up the SSL2+ for its midi ins/outs and I absolutely love it. Stable drivers with Windows (more stable than Focusrite’s in my experience at least on Windows), and a fantastic sound that evokes analog.
@@KBizzy yeah man totally. I switched away from Focusrite and I'm not looking back. SSL2+ works seemlessly with Windows for me too. It's a competitive market but SSL have such a great rep at the high end I think it's a matter of time they break into that top 10.
I was inclined to go in for the S+ but it felt short because of limited inputs and outputs.....if they had 4 I/O along with MIDI..... I ve been a really HAPPY RME BABYFACE PRO CUSTOMER and just might buy an extra one unless SSL steps up.
Awesome man. Thanks for mentioning. I'll try to get hold of one and make a video on it.
@@CreativeSauce brilliant, thanks Mike! Look forward to it 🌟
I chose the MOTU M4 as my first interface, it shows up in a few days. Based on all of the research I've been doing on budget interfaces, I think it's going to work out well, super exited to get it!
Hi the motu m4 it's compatible with traktor pro?🤔
@@raulberlanga551 The DJ software? Yeah, sure - ua-cam.com/video/KinqcnImat4/v-deo.html. I've had the M4 for a while now, and it works very well.
I've been a Motu user for years and had a 828mk2 for about 15 years (seriously the thing refused to die lol) and just recently upgraded to the new(ish) Motu 828ES which is fantastic and hopefully i'll get 10+ years out of this one too haha...
MOTU 828Mk2 user here as well. Had it since circa 2005 and still working except the back light has dimmed a bit. I am looking at getting the MOTU 828es because I am building a new computer and not looking to use fire wire anymore, plus the ES has a talk back button. I am sure the ES is going to last just as long.
Focusrite has a stranglehold on the hobbyist industry. I have bought 3 of them over the years. Just got my 4i4 MK3 last week! hehehe
Yeah but honestly, I used 2 and they broke down on me waaay too quick.
Not going for another one for sure. I also got loads of driver issues over the years.
The ones I’ve had aren’t very stable. I moved in to a Arturia AudioFuse
I've been RME for over a decade. First a ff80 and now a UFX. Killer drivers
Nice job!! I appreciate how you preface it as a list based on popularity. I've owned multiple Focusrite, Claretts and others, Presonous, and others. Motu, like the 8 Pre-Es is the best overall solution for me.. great control program and hardware, ability to use it standalone; and AVB capable. I stay with almost nothing but Motu these days. Just my input, as you said it's based on popularity. Many of the other solution's control drivers just don't utilize the hardware like the Motus do.
Thanks Stan. Reading the many comments from people about Motu, I'm gonna try my hardest to get hold of some units, and do some tests and reviews!
Hey there I went from a 18i8 Scarlett to a clarett 8preusb and a wa73preamp. Can you give me some details why you would pick certain interfaces over this one? Thanks for your time.
@@RoxwellZ I had a Clarett and a Presonus, so it's somewhat experience. The Personus was particular using the Thunderbolt, seemed like it produced noise unless certain sample rates were used. The Clarett was nice but the control software was not on the same planet with what Motu uses for hardware like the 8pre-es or 624. I am using it for a voice and sound studio with mics in studio and interviews with callers from the computer or smartphone, so within the control program Motu allows one to configure the mix minus and the entire environment easily. Focusrite requires some odd cabling etc to do the mix minus. But on the sheer quality of the hardware, Clarett and Motu AVB devices have similar low noise, amp gain, dynamic range etc. Both work well. The marriage of hw and sw that Motu does is tremendous, and their support is great.
RME Fireface 802 Bought it 5 years ago, rock solid never fails, perfect sound quality
I was going to get one of those; but the bank I robbed didn't have enough cash on-site to cover the cost of one.
@@Big_Bag_of_Pus lmao
Can you bypass the preamp
Post your music up...do any vocals?
Actually you got no music up. Didn't happen bro. Lol.
I still believe the MOTU M2 and Audient EVO4 are the bestbang for buck out there
Your timing is perfect with this one Mike. I was talking to a friend only this morning about a home studio he wants to set up. I have already told him abut your tutorials, especially as he is considering Cakewalk as his DAW but I shall send him a link to this video as I am sure he will find it informative. Many thanks. By the way, I use a Focusrite 8i6 as I wanted the midi inputs and have been really pleased with everything about it.
I have to agree with Mike here about the Focusrite 8i6, as the no midi inputs would be a show stopper for me. I need these to communicate with my Voicelive 2 for instant harmony using midi signals to directly control the live harmony.
@@johnbrunskill9469 I have a midi keyboard that has midi out but my audio interface does not have midi ins and outs. Does it make a difference that I connect the midi keyboard straight to the laptop? Should I return my focusrite solo and get one that has midi ins? thanks
I use the Behringer XR18 for recording bands. The XR18 in fact is a 18Channel Mixer with a USB jack. I chose that one because I wanted to have more than the usual 8 XLR/Combo Ins without spending too much money... and the sound quality is pretty good...
You failed to mention the MOTU M4. I bought a focusrite 8l6 last year and was not happy with it, replaced it with the M4 and the M4 is the best interface I’ve ever used. Very solid with great sound. The 8i6 was very finicky and the mixing software was horribly designed
Yes they are great. They just didn't get in the top 10 with the poll. Out if my control!
Agreed on Focusrite. There seems to be a wide array of driver complaints from Windows users.
I have the same expirience, with Motu. Best decision , The A/D Converter sound like from a 3000 € Interface. Build Quality is like a Tank and with some muscle inside the pc, they get extremly fast latency times.
Got the Motu M4 And I can tell is a Focusrite killer and even is better than more expensive ones.
I think hi's poll was more of best selling interfaces and he included how they performed
I just bought the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen interface and am VERY pleased with it's sound quality and low latency. Great box. I can totally understand why Focusrite dominates this list.
Glad to see mine came in at #2, the 18i20 has a clean sound, 8 inputs and is simple to use. Great to the point video!
Another vote for the SSL2/2+ over here, I ended up with the '2' cos they were out of stock of the '2+', served me flawlessly and the '4K' button brightens the sound beautifully, but I'm new to this game so I don't really count much. Though I do have a question about price/quality, according to the video it seems the price mainly relates to the number of ins/outs, is there a quality increase also (and can you hear it) ?
Great video! These are obviously the popular best selling interfaces. Price and marketing are what determines popularity and sales figures. I’d imagine next years list will include the sl2 as it seems to be gaining a lot of fans. But what is the “best” interface? That depends on your needs, but if the parameters are sound quality, build quality and reliability, then you may want to steer away from mass produced consumer products and look to the more pro end of the market. Anything by UA , apogee, antelope or RME are likely the true “best”. Case in point I used an audient id22 professionally for my voice over business. The drivers did weird things sometimes, like forget all my settings or just not load. And a couple of weeks ago the unit died. Contacted Audient support (who are great by the way) and was told it would need a new main board. Out of warranty repair price was half what I paid for the unit itself. As a professional, I had to choose if I was going to repair an already frustrating unit or go in a different direction. I sold some other gear and invested in an RME baby face pro fs. Suffice to say, it is a massive upgrade in sound quality and user experience. My signal chain is a TLM 103 into an isa 430mk 2 and now the baby face. What I realised is that the audient was probably a bit of a bottleneck. My audio sounds fuller, richer, and cleaner. More detailed. If you want the absolute best, you do need to pay for it. But if you’re podcasting or recording rough demos or whatever, then just get the device that has the features you need. Don’t overspend if it won’t actually make a meaningful difference to your end product.
i believe you are in the minority about Audient's sound. Most pros believe RME sounds plastic. Audient sounds analogue comparatively. May be ur audient was faulty?
@@kofiassor2164 my signal chain doesn’t include the preamps on either unit. Just the AD conversion. Audient is great when it’s working, but I had reliability issues. RME are known for their build quality and reliability. Most of my colour comes from the ISA preamp. As a pro who has owned and used both units, I rate the RME higher. If it was just a mic straight into the unit maybe I’d think differently. But not every pro wants their interface to colour their sound, especially in my industry. They want control over that colour, so they use analogue channel strips and outboard preamps. Just my perspective.
does the Babyface allow you to bypass the preamps? no
@@kofiassor2164 I run a short XLR from my ISA to trs on the babyface pro fs input. I may try xlr to xlr because the babyface preamps have transparent input buffers so I could control the gain and colour from my ISA. but I've yet to experiment.
I'm using a Universal Audio Apollo x4 Thunderbolt 3 audio interface. The compact desktop style with onboard big knob, function buttons, and LED metering works well for me. A perfect match for my MacBook Pro 16" laptop. Portable enough that I can take this interface and laptop from my control room to other rooms where I record vocals and other instruments. A must since I'm a one-man-band solo artist. I love the UAD plug-ins. They are the icing on the cake!
How you feel now since UAD going native? Plugins feel useless now eh?
RME UFX+ with Antelope Audio GoliathHD. Grab a MADI cable and we're set.
It's a great setup. A real head-scratcher to get running though. The RME is rock solid as everyone claims, but my computer did not recognize the USB Playback ports until I tried a different USB socket in the back of my computer. Also, Antelope Audio stuff is as finicky as everyone claims. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. Even in "standalone mode" the GoliathHD may take three or four restarts before it remembers it's an audio interface.
MOTU M4.
It's just amazing.
Motu is really amazing. I wanted the the Motu M4 but then came delivery waiting time around 1,5month and i got the M2, because i have a really good analog mixer and can live with that 2 inputs. For Multitrack recordings i use any also my elektron synths. Motu is really fast when you have enough power under your pc. And they have amazin A/D Converter i heared so far in that price range. I am more as happy with Motu
Agree, got one too!
I think Motu M2 deserved a place in this top 10 list especially because it out specs all its competitors under 200 dollar category
Thats probably true. But then again, I didn't choose what's in the list!
Great list!!! I’ve been using a Focusrite Clarett 8Pre and it’s amazing! I recently purchased a UAD Apollo twin X and have switched to using it as my main interface and my Clarett as the mixer via ADAT. What a wonderful combo!
Interesting so you like the preamp of the UA but the sound of the clarett?
I think the motu m2/m4 should have replaced one of the scarlett, especially the motu m2, considering the absolutely superior quality over fucusrite. It is a bit more expensive however
The only problem with the Motu m4 is that they’re impossible to get right now, I had one on backorder for months and cancelled and ended up getting something that was in stock. I’d still like to buy one someday but I’ll wait until I can find one that’s in stock. I had a Motu 2408 with a pci card years ago that sounded great so I’m already convinced the M4 will sound great in person.
I use a first generation Focusrite 2i2. It has never missed a beat in years. I work on the basis - if it aint broke don't fix it. A good video would be to show what the "Air" feature sounds like - so guys like me can decide if we should upgrade
I’m sure an EQ plug in could simulate the air feature so I would stick with what you have. 😀
I personally had a 1st Gen... Scarlett 18i8 and loved it... Or so I thought. Once I upgraded to clarett..(8preusb) (I considered the 3rd gen but went with the clarett) the difference was astounding. Very happy I made the jump. At the same time. I also bought a wa73 preamp... I love the finished sound of the wa73 (but if I want to get detailed in mixing I prefer the dry clarett signal without air. As a mutli versed artist. I scream sing rap and rock... For screaming the air is cool. For rapping I like the air off.. (tighter words) the wa73 I would definitely add to singers. On rockers the clarett is great. As for my Scarlett... The difference makes me want to sell my 18i8... Haven't felt any need for it yet... But figure I'll save it in case I record bands.
I bought the IK Multimedia Axe I/O earlier this year and this is a super good interface, especially for guitar players, with a reamping option. By the way, I completely shifted to IK Multimedia with Total Studio Max (with Amplitube 4 and T-Racks 5, Miroslav Philharmonic etc), ARC 3 System aseveral other plugins. Love them!
I'm using a Steinberg UR242. It works really well. I like the built in DSP FX, especially the compressor. I've had it for about a year
and so far there haven't been any problems. My first audio interface was a Lexicon Alpha. It didn't work well on Windows 8.1 and
I haven't tested it on Windows 10. There were a lot of problems with my USB master keyboards, hanging notes, dropped out notes.
All that went away when I purchased the Steinberg interface. It works well with Cakewalk by Bandlab and Studio One.
I use the 2i2. I might go for the big one to have 8 XLR’s in eventually. Nice review. 👍
Do you also have these issues under windows 10 that sometimes you get crackling noise in your headphones while being in discord or in a game csgo for example
I just got an Apollo X4, highly recommended
I use this interface Roland Octa Capture 10x10:
Combining ten inputs, ten outputs, and eight VS PREAMPS with transparent 24-bit/192 kHz audio quality, the Roland OCTA-CAPTURE sets a new standard for portable USB 2.0 audio interfaces. High-level audio production comes easy with this fusion of premium components, Roland-quality engineering, and proprietary preamp and streaming technology.
Audient ID44 has great preamps, great conversion, can be expanded from 4 to 20 channels, has very low latency, and is solid as a rock. And it won´t break the bank. I´m amazed at the quality for the price.
How funny. I recently bought the number one just for use with my laptop when not at home. Otherwise a RME Fireface has.served me well for 14 years in my home studio.
I recently replaced my Roland Duo Capture EX with a Behringer UMC4040HD it has 4 input & 4 outputs, direct monitoring and a midi interface. I am very happy with it for $178 USD! It doesn't have onboard effects but I haven't needed that I haven't had issues with latency or maxed out my cpu / memory. I have plans for a portable band recording setup later and I'm not sure what interface I will buy but cost is definately a concern. I have only one bad experience with an interface and that was Maudio . I couldn't get the driver to work on windows and on the mac the latency was horrible and was basically unusable. But that was about 18 years ago. My Roland lasted many years but was starting to make horrible noises in the speakers when I first turned it on and stayed that way for about 15 seconds. But I believe it served me well for 6 years or so. So I figured it was time and I wanted a couple more inputs anyway.
That is a great unit but the snobs judge the quality by the price tag 😁
Low price isn't allowed to be good but we know better 👍😎
I also have a Behringer UMC404HD and have been very happy with it. I'm still trying to figure out why so many UA-camrs sleep on Behringer, yet they gush over Focusrite despite the much higher price tags for lesser capabilities.
Clarette 4 USB 3 here. What an amazing unit. Just sharing. Great video thanks
Hello Mike and thanks again for a great review. It was interesting to see your list but not surprising. I replaced my Motu 828mk2 as my main interface due to no updated drivers for windows 10. It now connects by ADAT to my new Audient iD 14.
I picked this iF because of its specs and windows drivers. I wish it had midi connections but midi still works if I turn on the motu.
Thanks again.
BTW the vocals you and your wife did on the last video were awesome. Much respect.
Absolutely LOVE my Focustire Scarlet 2i2. I run that into a MSI GS63 Stealth RGB laptop using Amplitube 4. I'm probably going to upgrade Amplitube to 5 though.
RME Babyface Pro is my choice, even though I also own (and sometimes use) a Apollo Twin USB
Do the RME converters sound better than the Apollo’s, in your opinion?
Excellent. I especially liked the way that you specified the actual number of physical inputs on the devices. I remember when I was shopping for a new interface and I required a large number of analogue inputs. I found the claims of I/Os by manufacturers very confusing, on one occasion even resorting to counting the I/Os on the images on the manufacturers website. So kudos for that. Oops, I almost forgot to like your video. There we go.
Good show! Been using the 8 in fire pod since about 2007. Flawless.
Behringer XR18. Recorded double CD project with live drums, choir, etc. Have had it over 2 years, no problems.
finally , we don't know what to buy ! wich one has the best sound !!! that's all !! please ?
Anything by Apollo RME or Antelope (in my opinion)
Audient ID14 - great. USB power - only needs mains power when using condenser mics that require phantom power.
Always very handy!
Great Video. I am currently using an Arturia Audiofuse Studio. Really great pre-amps! They have a cool 10db boost feature that gives an honest 72DB of gain. In addition it includes all of the other connections that you need in a small desktop footprint. Its not cheap but it punches way above its weight in the sound quality department. I have a UA Twin quad that I am using in the other room. I like the detail and gain from the Arturia’s pres better than my Quad. Its the closest thing I have to the Prism gear I have at work.
I have Focusrite 2i2 3d gen. Its the best thing that I have ever bought for 150$. Be sure,it works simply and reliably.
I'm currently using an Audient iD22. Perfect for me, as it's high quality, has inserts, which allow me to use outboard devices, and I only need two channels.
A little surprised there were none from Native Instruments, but then, you did say the competition is pretty fierce. However, not surprised at no Behringer!
Honestly I’m surprised the arturia 8 pre isn’t on here. Just got it and it’s already blowing my mind with all the capabilities!
I am currently using a Soundcraft UI24R. The flexibility and number of inputs and outputs for the price is just amazing. Totally a digital mixer though and NOT specifically designed as a studio interface. Love it to death though. Great video!
It looks awesome, and some great features. Do you use it live as well?
Focusrite was on this list 3 times for a reason! They kick ass! Especially the new 3rd gen.
I use the Focusrite Clarett 8pre, love that thing to the core. Did the upgrade after using the Focusrite Saffire Pro40.. but since the firewire interface was discontinued and thus expensions were no longer available (new that is), I needed to get rid of it and switched to the Clarett. Right from the get go, the Clarett sounds way bigger, such a warm, rich and transparent sound it has, where the Saffire Pro40 sounded almost flat like a wet cardboard box. But, one day I'd probably upgrade to an Antelope Goliath III, which has the perfect out of the box sound for me. Good video, great job!
Clarret is noticably better than the Scarlett but they're the same , a huge boost in sound quality is heard when upgrading to uad instead of wasting money on the Clarett
@@ifiwantyoutofeel Well, that's just a taste of preference I guess. In my opinion, spending almost fout times the money on an interface which isn't four times as good, is wasting money. I've worked with the UAD Apollo 8 and yeah it sounded great, but I'd never buy it because of it's insane price. Then again, it's all a matter of taste
The BEST audio interface I have tried so far is that thing i won on auction.. It is StudioLive 16R (R-means rack unit).
It is not the cheap gear you gonna see on the shelf but I was super lucky and got one of these babies for half price on auction from a music store that went bankrupt because of the pandemic. I do not know how they made it but there is probably some sort of fast processor inside because i can load all 16 inputs with sound at the same time and use VST (not the hardware plugins) inside Studio One 5 and still get ZERO latency. It have built in basic mixer FX and sound modulators but even when using VSTS on every channel I get zero latency. I see latency on mixer but it does some sort of magic giving me ZERO! If you are a singer or a guitarist or any other instrument player, I would strongly recommend this unit. With 16 channels it will fire up entire band. It is not cheap, but worth saving some cash for it and investing it, because it is a mixer with built in audio interface that support 16in and 8 out, but you can expand it and still get ZERO latency because it have few types of networks.. One main network it uses is AVB (audio video bridging) and other output is for your regular router so you can control your mixer from phone, tablet or whatever you have at your hand. You can buy a special switch from presonus and combine AVB network protocol with Dante network and get all your Dante channels on your mixer. In beginning mixer seem too complicated, but just contact your PreSonus support and they will sit down with you and help you to learn your mixer andteach you how to use it. They are very nice people. Now theis is NOT a beginner home studio grade audio interface, but a highly professional gear, but if you can aford this then look no further because you will get absolute ZERO latency in daw, you will have fully featured big stage mixer that you can control from phone during the gig, you will be able to use this as your stage box or FX rack all that in ONE UNIT! Cheers for the video Mike and if you wanna hear some songs I recorded 18 years ago on the most crappy equipment ever and still got a score on it and thousands of listeners then please visit this place soundcloud.com/punkpropaganda
I thought this music was gone for ever, after 10 long years of looking for it at my previous fans libaries and backups I finally found a working copy! BACK UP YOUR STUFF AND DO IT WELL!
Great info.. thanks mate!
Fantastic video. Cheers!
video quality is extemely good
Thats a beautiful semi hollow body behind you. Just got my first gretch guitar four months ago and I have to say I couldn't be more impressed
Love my orion 32+gen 3. 32 analog ins and outs. Runs perfect. Don't even need a patchbay
Awesome Mike, I to have been using the Studio 192 paired with a Presonus DP88. I mix in and out of the Box using two Mini Shorty Patchbays.With other pieces of Hardware for mixing and recording. They are a true work horse. Thank you for your Channel.
After using a berhinger umc22 for about 2 years I finally upgraded to a focusrite 18i20. The behringer was surprisingly great for a cool $40
Yes I had a Behringer umc22 previously and had a great run out of it and got great recordings with. I upgraded to a Steinberg UR22C which is built like a tank hoping for a major improvement in recording quality but It wasn’t. I recently bought the Scarlett solo as everyone raves about them and all the specs are better than urc222 but at this early stage if it is better it’s only slightly. It’s doesn’t feel as solid or well built as the Steinberg. I still have my old Line 6 interface that I’ve had for about 15 yrs and still works perfectly and has some great sounding amp models that are equal or better than what’s on offer today.
Fireface works for me. Analog 20x20.
I want an Audient interface with a DSP chip or a Presonus interface that competes with the new Steinberg URC interfaces. My heart wants an Apollo, but my wallet thinks otherwise. 😅
Great video man!
Audient is a beeeastt im telling u. Changed my life! Lol
Go for Motu M2 that's the best interface great sound quality specs better than all the others in its price range. Interestingly it's output is even more powerful than the expensive apollo. The apollo monitor output is 115 dbA but Motu M2 monitor output is 120 dbA which is way more dynamic range. Even the headphone output of motu is better or equal to apollo apollo 113 vs motu 115 dbA. The Mic inputs on motu have 115dbA dynamic range which is quite good
Nice video! Ive been a MOTU user for 30 years starting with the very first MIDI time piece and MIDI mixer. My current interface, UltraLitemk4 has been great until I added a new GeForce rtx3070 card for gaming. Cannot get the mk4 to work. Tried a variety of driver uninstalls/reinstalls etc. I see you have a gaming PC in the background. Any recommendation for interfaces that play well with high end gaming cards?? I am considering just keeping the gaming on a dedicated PC at this stage. I'm desperate. Thanks in advance for any advice. Cheers. Rob
Very handy!! Thanks a lot!
Hi Mike, well done!
I think that also the brand used by myself, Tascam is worth to be mentioned here.
I do use since 2 years a Tascam US 16x08 having USB2 connectivity. This one, as well as the newer brother, US-20x20 (USB3) have built in compressors and 4 band EQ for each of the 16 (1608) or 10 (2020) analog physical input channels.
The Tascam US-range (the "better" consumer range) starts with the
US-1x2 with 1x Mic, 1xLine (unfortunately with RCA-outputs, awkward!!!) 96 KHz and no MIDI at 97 EUR,
US-2x2 with 2x combo ins, 2 x outs 96KHz, MIDI at 123 EUR
US 4x4 HR with 4x combo ins, 4xouts, 2xphones out, 192KHz, MIDI at 255 EUR
US-16x08 with 8x mic & 8xline ins (partially with gain & level), 8xouts, 1xphones out, 96KHz, MIDI at 299 EUR
US-20x20 with 8x combo & 2xline ins (partially with gain & level), SPDIF & optical inx&outs, 10xouts, 2xphones out, 192KHz, MIDI at 499 EUR
Below they have a SERIES (budget) line. But I am affraid I don't know much about them
Hey man, nice to hear from you :) Great tip thank you :)
@@CreativeSauce You are very welcome, Mike
I am still using and love my Focusrite Liquid 56, yes I know its gettin old but it still works like new and sounds great. Best still although its firewire that means it works with Thunderbolt and USB4 so will continue to be compatible for years to come, even though they refuse to update the drivers they still work perfectly with both Windows 10 and 11.
2i2
Just bought one.
Sweetwater bundle deal.
I think it'll fit my needs.
Motu m2/m4 seem to get good reviews. Focusrite seems to get very mixed reviews. I'm looking at focusrite but I'm nervous about the amount of negative reviews I read.
go for Motu, if you are not happy, you can blame it on me.
Best Interface s under 300€
@@drfluffy3983 Motu M4 and not M2 is the right choice.
I've been using a Roland Oct-Capture for years now and still using it with new computer I just built...It just works and with pretty good RTL. I am considering getting a Thunderbolt interface. The latency with Presonus Quantum series is pretty impressive. I see you are using a Presonus USB 3 interface. How do you find the latency with it?
I love the Zoom interfaces. For me they have been the most reliable. I did not have much luck with any of the Focusrite interfaces, but like any technology, what works for some may not work for others.
Which is good for stereo piano straight into an iphone camera?
Which interface is the best choice in your opinion, steinburg ur22c / focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen / presonus 2i2 24c or Audient iD14 MKll ?
Got the Steinberg 22 C and the Focusrite 18i20 3rd Generation ... both super for me as a home-studio-user.
At Home i use the Audient with a motu pre 8. I have used a focus rite 18:20 with a motu pre 8 in our rehearsal studio. I find the MOTU pre amps really great, the focus rite slightly disappointing. The Audient sounds the best for remixing (hence at home). For the band I have bought the Behringer xr18 air. Nice for live and live recordings, the pre amps are not as good as motu and have to applied with care(to much input it distorts with a crack) but you can’t win them all on a budget. I missed Motu in your review .
I can put my head on a block for RME interface
Thanks for the video
I've used the 18i8 1st gen. I don't care for it much though as the drivers would crash quite often. That also goes for the 2i2 and 4i4 2nd gen. Currently I'm using 2 M-Audio Profile 2626 connected via FW and adat. They work great, and the only reason I want to upgrade now is that my XLR channels are starting to tank. I have 2 channels that have very low volume and it's just not worth it to try to ressurect them at this point. I have been looking into the 18i20 3rd gen and I've heard that the new drivers are much more stable.
I love it!
Evo4 possible loopback!!! I love it!!👍👍😍😍
I use the PreSonus 1824c and love it. I was using the Mackie Big Know Studio Plus.
The Focusrite Scarlett 3rd gen line is okay, but the Scarlett line is intentionally held back to not encroach on their Clarett line for sound quality. I have the 18i20 3rd gen, which I was excited to get, but have been largely underwhelmed. The air feature does sound pretty good, it sounds good overall but not amazing as far as the conversion and pres. I do NOT like the software mixer and the way the metering works!
For example, I have a synth hooked up to channel 3 and 4 (stereo input). You obviously need to get the channels the exact volume to match each other. So you turn up channel 3, the left channel. The metering will display infinity, then move up until 0 dB. Let's say you want both channels to max at -3 dB. So you turn up channel 3 slowly and miss your mark and go past -3 dB? The metering will read up, but not down. So if you lower the volume to -5 dB (for example), it will still say the peak level you went to and will only update if you either go back down and start over (clearing the meter), or click on the meter with the mouse (and that method often makes it read a false number for some ungodly reason.) It is the dumbest possible design and the biggest issue I have with the unit as a whole.
If it updated up and down in real time, you could match stereo channels so easily and quickly, but they stupidly did not allow the software to do this. So to level match a stereo input, it can take you a long time to do what should take seconds to do! It takes me almost 10 minutes to level match something due to this design blunder/flaw/stupidity. I have yet to find a better way to do this. It has caused a lot of buyers remorse!
I also think the Presonus 1824c (heard it), Audient Evo 8 (own it), and my Soundcraft Signature 12 MTK mixer sounds better. I used to own the MOTU M4, definitely beats it in sound quality hands down (only sold because I needed more inputs at the time).
Great Job !! Ive bneen watching TouTube Videos for some Time. Yours are the Best!!! Thank you!!
Thanks a lot Mike,sad to see no Tascam on the list
Glad to see at least one mention of Tascam. I have Tascam US-16x08, and was wondering if I made a mistake in purchasing that.
I own a Tascam US20x20 and I think it's pretty nice. (Adat and standalone mode did the selling pitch for me). I think it is pretty good, but I am not able to compare with Pres with higher-end units. Sadly, Tascam's reputation regarding audio Interfaces is not that good regarding drivers. Nowadays, they are writing their drivers in-house I believe, and it sure helps a lot.
I just purchased a studio desk and want to buy a studio interface rack for my desk. Which would you recommend? I have the new M1 MacBook Pro..and I’m looking to spend no more than $2600. I’m wanting something for clear vocals..I prefer a lighter clean sound than a warm closed in sound.
I think clarett should be named , some of the higher priced units have got in built dsp. And they have got the real ISA preamps with AIR mode , upto dec they r running offer , i was thinking of buying , but still i will save for later of upgrade
Awesome audio Interface breakdown Mike, I really agree with your opinions too...in fact, 44.1 kHz is all I need haha. I have the Apollo Twin ( Version X ) & I hihgly recomend it over the older one.
In my case, as a home studio procucer and midi man for over 20 years my affordable choice was Audient id14 due its Audient high quality conversors. Although no Midi connections, I love the his imbattable warm sound. A little giant. PS: I don't have a acoustic drum in my studio. If I need by the way I have professional drummers that send the audio tracks from their studio. Excellent solution to avoid have a white elephant here.
I have been using a Line 6 UX2, admittedly a bit old, but it's working for me. I didn't use it much for the first years after buying it, but recently it's been getting more work. What's your opinion on it?
Btw, love the videos, as always!
I haven't actually used, but in honesty, if it works for you, go for it! 99% of it is the music :)
I used an M-Audio Fast Track Pro only up until a year 1/2 ago. I ended up getting a Focusrite 2i4 and while the sound quality was decent, their drivers gave me all sorts of headaches with my Windows machines. Just recently picked up the SSL2+ and I love it.
I've used a Line6 UX2 for over a decade. I'm primarily a guitarist and when I began recording at home this is what I chose and have used since. I have absolutely nothing negative to say about this interface and, in fact, when my original Tone Port UX2 broke (thanks, 2 year old son) I immediately bought the updated UX2.
@@moebiwan glad to hear I'm not the only one that is happy with it! Just curiosity, how did your kid break it? It seems like a quite sturdy piece of equipment to me (even though I had to replace the USB port because it broke).
@@davasei I had set it aside to prepare for a move to a new house. He tripped and fell while carrying a cup of juice and soaked it. It was a mess. Ruined an Akai MPK mini as well :)
As a pro mainly doing game music I'm amazed at the number of units having more inputs than outputs. I never use more than 2 inputs but am always needing more outs to mix. I may be old school in that I still use a hardware mixer (Audient), but am I really in such a minority to desire a 2 in 16 out? 😎
My current interface is an 24bit RME 8in 8 out...as a UAD user I'm leaning to the Apollo range.
I have n. 5 Steinberg ur22c glad as well with this... But its my First audio interface so cant compare to others but it doing for what i looked so im glad :)
So the devices that have multi-inputs... Do they show up on the computer as individual sources, are are they all mixed as one or two inputs?
Hi Jeff. On all of these they are, and show up as separate inputs. This is a good question as some digital 'mixers', although can be used as audio interfaces, sum down to only 2 channels.
MOTU M2 and MOTU M4 is at least in the Top 3 !!!!!
Agree!
Does an audio interface have any effect on latency? Can you go at a lower latency with a better interface?
I’ve always had good use of the Tascam series interfaces (1800, 16x08, and the 20x20).
I've been using a MOTU 896HD since 2003/4. I thought I'd have to replace it last year when macOS Catalina came out, but they released updated drivers, so it was put off. I'll have to see if they'll support the Apple processors with hardware that old.
RME ufxii working perfectly with new m1 Mac mini.
What opinión the People and you Mike have about the Behringer UMC202HD. It's my interface. Some people say that it's horrible but others saying that it's like the Scarlett.
Sorry my English, I'm Spanish
Good to start but I recommends the Motu M2, $170 and is excellent
Bueno para empezar pero te recomiendo el Motu M2, $170 y es excelente.
I'm still using my 2 Focusrite Pro 40 interface works perfect with my Octapre 8.
It's firewire but rock solid for years , plan on upgrading at some point to Thunderbolt.
I'm surprised the Motu is not listed...
I have a 2i2. It’s really nice but I’m about to spend a bit more money on one now and would like to upgrade eventually.
Just upgraded from a Scarlett to a Clarett2 pre USB and it's a great unit. Plus it comes with the Brainworx bx Focusrite console emulation, which is a dooozy of a channel strip. I'm saving up for a mic pre though and may go for Focusrite again and the ISO One or Two.